Our Next Governor—State Employees in Focus

December 11, 2024 – Virginia Governmental Employee Association (VGEA)

The upcoming 2025 gubernatorial race between Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger isn’t just a political showdown—it’s a moment of reckoning for Virginia’s state employees and retirees. The stakes couldn’t be higher as these candidates outline sharply different visions on labor laws, workforce development, and the state’s economic future.

For VGEA members, this is a critical time to ask: how will the next governor’s policies impact public service, compensation, and workplace rights? And most importantly, how can we, as the voice of Virginia’s state employees, ensure our needs are heard?

Right-to-Work and Virginia’s Workforce

Virginia’s right-to-work framework has long been a defining feature of the state’s labor policies, shaping the relationship between workers and employers.

At last week’s Virginia Chamber of Commerce economic summit, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears affirmed her commitment to preserving this framework, highlighting its role in promoting worker freedom. Drawing from her experiences as both an employee and a business owner, she remarked, “I valued the freedom to decide how to spend my wages… and respected that a good worker deserves the same freedom.” Earle-Sears also pointed to her record of fostering a business-friendly environment by cutting red tape and streamlining regulations during her tenure.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger emphasized the importance of strategic investments in education, childcare, and infrastructure to address workforce challenges and strengthen Virginia’s economy. Stressing the need for a “stable, predictable business climate,” she highlighted the high return on investment from early childhood education and the role of workforce participation in driving economic success.

Both candidates recognize the critical importance of creating opportunities for Virginia workers and businesses, though they present distinct approaches to achieving those goals.

For VGEA members, these visions should spark important conversations about the best way to advocate for fair pay, benefits, and workplace conditions.

Why Every State Employee and Retiree Needs the VGEA

The VGEA has long stood as the unified voice for Virginia’s state employees and retirees. Unlike unions, our voluntary, non-collective bargaining approach ensures that we can advocate effectively for all employees, regardless of membership status. But with only a small percentage of state employees paying dues, our ability to influence policy and protect interests is limited.

Here’s the truth: smaller membership means a smaller voice. In the face of potential changes to labor laws and policies affecting state employees, our collective strength has never been more critical. The candidates are outlining their priorities now, but it’s up to us to ensure our priorities—competitive salaries, strong benefits, and workplace protections—remain front and center.

The Path Forward: Advocacy and Global Perspectives

Virginia isn’t alone in balancing right-to-work policies with workforce advocacy. States like Colorado and Utah, which maintain voluntary employee associations, have demonstrated that a well-organized, non-union approach can drive meaningful change. The key? Engagement. When employees see the value of collective advocacy, membership grows, and so does influence.

The VGEA is your voice in this race and beyond, but we need every state employee and retiree to stand with us. As the candidates prepare for the general election, let’s prepare too—by growing our membership and amplifying our message.

VGEA’s Call to Action

If you’re not already a member of the VGEA, now is the time to join. Your annual dues help us fight for the policies and benefits you deserve. Already a member? Invite your colleagues to join. Let’s build the strongest, most robust VGEA ever—because when we stand united, we’re unstoppable.

This analysis draws on reporting from Dave Ress in the Richmond Times-Dispatch. His original article, “Earle-Sears calls Spanberger a threat to Virginia laws restricting labor unions,” published on December 9, 2025, offers an excellent overview of the candidates’ positions. You can read the full article here.

Questions? Contact us at info@vgea.org or vgea.org/contact for more details about this exciting partnership.

About the VGEA:

The Virginia Governmental Employees Association is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and interests of Virginia’s state employees and retirees. Our mission is to ensure fair treatment, proper compensation, and a supportive working environment for all who serve the Commonwealth.

Working to Keep Virginia Working

VGEA is the only statewide organization for the broad range of Commonwealth employees.

While there are more than 160,000 of us working in a vast array of professions and jobs, we unite in a desire to be recognized for our dedication to making Virginia a great state.

In short, The Commonwealth of Virginia works because we do!

Whether it’s increasing salaries, improving work conditions or any of the many other employee issues, VGEA is here to help address them all. A strong association with representative members is recognized and invited to decision-making tables in state government. We strive to be relevant, from the 21-year-old new employee to the 100-year-old retiree.

Every employee benefits from the experience and dedication VGEA brings. VGEA matters because you matter!

Join Now Renew Membership

Right-to-Work and Virginia’s Workforce

Why Every State Employee and Retiree Needs the VGEA

The Path Forward: Advocacy and Global Perspectives

VGEA’s Call to Action

Latest News

Working to Keep Virginia Working