Save the Children Action Network endorses Abigail Spanberger for governor of Virginia

Cites Spanberger’s ‘bipartisan leadership and proven record’ on early learning and child
nutrition

Richmond, VA (July 9, 2025) — Today, Save the Children Action Network (SCAN), the leading political voice for children, formally endorsed former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger in her campaign for governor of Virginia, citing her proven commitment to early childhood education, child nutrition and bipartisan problem-solving.

“Save the Children Action Network proudly endorses Abigail Spanberger for governor of Virginia,” said Randy Moore, SCAN’s Virginia state manager. “With her proven track record of bipartisan leadership and deep commitment to early learning and child nutrition, she is the champion our children need. Spanberger understands that quality early learning is the foundation for success, and that no child can learn on an empty stomach. She is exactly the leader Virginia families deserve at this critical moment.”

“As program cuts come out of Washington, D.C., Virginia’s schools, students, and children are facing the consequences. From attempts to eliminate Head Start to reduced SNAP benefits that so many Virginia families rely on, Virginians need a Governor who will stand up against these attacks,” said Spanberger. “As the next Governor of Virginia, I will make sure our children have every opportunity to succeed in school – starting with high-quality, affordable early childhood education. I’m grateful for Save the Children Action Network’s support, and I look forward to building a better future for all of Virginia’s parents and children as the Commonwealth’s next Governor.”

In conjunction with the endorsement, SCAN is preparing a robust electoral campaign in Virginia that will include digital advertising, grassroots engagement and voter mobilization efforts to educate voters about Spanberger’s leadership on issues impacting Virginia children. SCAN will announce a bipartisan slate of House of Delegates endorsements later this year, underscoring its commitment to building momentum on kids’ issues in every corner of the Commonwealth.

Background

Spanberger’s record of delivering for Virginia’s children and families makes her the clear choice for governor. As a member of Congress, she consistently prioritized bipartisan, practical solutions to ensure that every child – regardless of zip code or economic background – has a chance to thrive. Her record includes:

• Cosponsoring the Affordable Child Care Act to increase child care tax credits for caregivers and employers providing child care services for their employees.
• Fighting to expand access to child care for families working nontraditional hours – vital for working families across Virginia.
• Championing federal support for Head Start and advocating for sustained funding to ensure early learning opportunities reach every Virginia community.
• Introducing and supporting bipartisan bills to strengthen school nutrition programs and safeguard access to free meals for children experiencing food insecurity.

“Abigail Spanberger is the clear choice for Virginia’s families,” Moore said. “She knows that high-quality child care and pre-K education help children succeed in school and boost long-term outcomes like graduation rates and job readiness. At a time when federal child care funding is drying up and food insecurity is rising, Virginia needs a leader who will protect what matters most – our kids. Spanberger is not just a candidate, she’s a leader with a plan to ensure every child, in every community, has the opportunity to thrive.”

About SCAN’s broader vision

Today’s endorsement is part of SCAN’s broader 2025 strategy to support child-focused leaders across the political spectrum. In addition to backing Spanberger, SCAN plans to endorse a bipartisan slate of state delegates over the summer.

“SCAN’s endorsements are rooted in one thing: a candidate’s commitment to kids,” said Moore. “Abigail Spanberger has made children and families central to her campaign and legislative career. That’s why we’re proud to stand with her and we look forward to working alongside her to build a brighter future for Virginia’s youngest learners.”