RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger made a significant statement in the realm of civil rights and voting rights this week, commemorating the 1963 March on Washington by announcing the restoration of voting rights to 100,000 formerly incarcerated state residents. Spanberger, who was among a group of national leaders gathered at the Lincoln Memorial, highlighted the importance of voting as a cornerstone of democracy.
In her remarks, Spanberger emphasized the significance of the right to vote, noting that it is more than just casting a ballot but about ensuring every person has a voice in the democratic process. "The right to vote is about more than a ballot—it is about whether we believe every person should have a voice in our democracy, and I do," she said.
The governor's administration has been actively working to ensure that eligible residents can exercise their right to vote. Spanberger's announcement came as part of a broader effort to make voting more accessible in Virginia. The state has been one of only three in the country that permanently strips voting rights from citizens with felony convictions, a policy that Spanberger called a "shameful relic of Virginia's Jim Crow past."
Spanberger's administration has been instrumental in changing this status quo. Since taking office in January 2026, she has restored the voting rights of 66,000 Virginians and has now expanded that number to 100,000. "One person alone has the authority to restore those rights—the Governor," Spanberger said, acknowledging her role in the process.
The governor's actions have been met with praise from civil rights groups and advocates who have long fought for voting rights restoration. Sam Harris, a Virginian whose rights were restored, expressed his pride in being able to cast a ballot again, emphasizing the importance of voting as "something my ancestors died for."
Spanberger's commitment to civil rights is not new. She has a history of advocating for social justice and equality, having previously served as a member of the House of Representatives. During her time in Congress, she worked on legislation aimed at improving the lives of underserved communities.
The governor's speech at the Lincoln Memorial also paid homage to the state's rich civil rights history. She mentioned the Freedom Riders' first stop in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and the birthplace of civil rights leader Dorothy Height in Richmond. "This history continues today," Spanberger said, noting the record number of Black legislators and women elected in Virginia.
Spanberger's administration has also been recognized for its efforts to diversify the state's leadership. In 2025, Virginia elected its first Black Attorney General, and in 2026, the nation's first Muslim woman to statewide office as Lieutenant Governor. These milestones reflect the state's commitment to inclusivity and progress.
The restoration of voting rights for formerly incarcerated residents is a significant step towards a more inclusive democracy. It allows individuals who have served their time to rejoin society with the dignity and rights that all citizens deserve. Spanberger's leadership in this area is a testament to her dedication to social justice and equality.
As Virginia continues to move forward, the governor's actions serve as an example for other states looking to reform their voting rights policies. By restoring the voting rights of thousands of individuals, Spanberger has not only made Virginia a more equitable state but has also contributed to the national conversation on civil rights and voting rights.
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