Abigail Spanberger Sworn In as Virginia Governor, Repeals ICE Order

Abigail Spanberger was sworn in Saturday (January 17) as Virginia’s 75th governor, opening her administration with calls for unity—and a swift policy shift that signaled a new direction for the Commonwealth.

In her inaugural address, Spanberger urged Virginians to “stand united” and “act together,” pledging to serve all residents as she takes office following her November victory over Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears. She succeeds outgoing Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin and makes history as the first female governor of Virginia.

Spanberger was inaugurated alongside two other Democratic statewide leaders: Ghazala F. Hashmi, the first Muslim woman to hold statewide office in the U.S., and Jay Jones, the first Black attorney general in Virginia history—marking a significant political shift in state leadership.

Within hours of taking office, Spanberger took decisive action by repealing Executive Order 47, ending Virginia’s participation in the federal 287(g) program, which allowed local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE. The move was widely praised by immigrant advocacy groups, including CASA in Action, which credited years of organizing by immigrant communities for the outcome.

The decision carried particular significance in heavily Hispanic areas such as Prince William County, where Latino voters played a key role in Spanberger’s election. Advocates said repealing the order sends a clear message that community safety does not require voluntary cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

While celebrating the repeal, immigrant leaders emphasized that the work is not finished. Advocates are now urging the Virginia General Assembly to advance broader protections limiting collaboration with ICE. Community members plan to rally at the Capitol on January 22 to press lawmakers for further action.

SOURCE: WHSV3