How candidates are actually running in Virginia and New Jersey

Both parties made cost-of-living relief the centerpiece of their 2025 gubernatorial races, but their tone, tactics, and cultural cues differ sharply.

The way Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger run their campaigns could have big implications for 2026. (Photo by Tom Williams)

The 2025 governors’ races in New Jersey and Virginia have become early tests of how Democrats and Republicans intend to frame this political moment. Both parties are leading with affordability, but they differ in how they connec…