Winsome Earle-Sears qualifies for Virginia gubernatorial ballot

Winsome Earle-Sears, Virginia's first black female lieutenant governor, has secured a spot on the gubernatorial ballot after submitting nearly 20,000 signatures. This comes amid challenges from two other Republican candidates, Amanda Chase and Dave LaRock, who have complicated her campaign. Earle-Sears has faced skepticism from some Republican voters regarding her alignment with the party, especially after her past comments about moving on from Trump. Former Democratic Governor Douglas Wilder noted her disconnect with the Republican Party and lack of independent support. Democratic candidate Abigail Spanberger also submitted over 40,000 signatures to qualify for the ballot. Spanberger emphasizes her bipartisan approach, while the Democratic Party of Virginia has criticized Earle-Sears and her rivals as extreme. Chase and LaRock have until April 3 to submit their signatures.