Democrat Abigail Spanberger defeated Republican Winsome Earle-Sears to become Virginia's next governor, capitalizing on President Donald Trump's unpopularity.

In her campaign, Abigail Spanberger focused on jobs and the cost of living and emphasized her support for abortion rights.

Democrat Abigail Spanberger has been projected as winningthe race for Virginia governor after a closely-watched election which her party hoped could signal a national trend. The former congresswoman and CIA officer defeated the state's Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, media reported.

Virginia governor-elect Abigail Spanberger celebrates her win over Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, promising to focus on lowering costs and strengthening the economy.

The gubernatorial contests in both states represent the first major national races since Trump took office for a second term.

Del. Nadarius Clark, a Democrat, wins after facing a challenge from Republican Felisha R.L. Storm for the House District 84 seat.

Democrats maintained control of the state’s House of Delegates, keeping alive their path to redrawing the state’s congressional districts before the midterms.

In the New York City mayoral race, just 29% of voters approve of Trump, according to the exit poll, as do 36% in California. There, the Proposition 50 ballot measure will decide whether the state will change its congressional map in response to Republican-led redistricting pushed by Trump in Texas and other states.