CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger launched a Virginia political action committee – “United for Virginia’s Future PAC” – on Monday, aimed at bolstering future Democratic candidates in elections around the Commonwealth.

“In November, Virginians sent a resounding message: they chose pragmatism over partisanship and public service over political games,” Spanberger said in a release. “And already, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, safer, and more affordable Virginia,” said Spanberger. “United for Virginia’s Future PAC will make sure our Commonwealth continues this progress long into the future. In 2026 and beyond, I look forward to having the backs of commonsense candidates who listen, lead, and want to actually get things done — not grandstand.”

The goal of the pack will be to “recruit, support and defend candidates in future elections.”

Spanberger will be inaugurated as Virginia’s first female governor on Jan. 17 in Richmond. Last week, Spanberger announced a ticket lottery for Virginians who want to attend the ceremony. The event is public but seating is limited. 

Also Monday, Spanberger announced the appointment of U.S. Army Major General Timothy P. Williams (Ret.) to serve as Virginia’s next Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs. Williams spent 38 years in the Army, then served nine years as the Adjutant General of Virginia.

“I share Governor-elect Spanberger’s focus on making sure Virginia communities have the resources they need to keep their citizens safe, so we will make sure the Virginia National Guard is always ready and always there to rapidly respond as part of Virginia’s multi-agency team to provide capabilities when Virginians are impacted by severe weather or a security threat,” Williams said in a statement. “We will work together to protect Virginia’s current military infrastructure which is so vital to the security of not just the Commonwealth, but the entire country.”