Governor Abigail Spanberger Breaks Tradition at Inauguration

Mon Jan 19 2026 09:05:44 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Virginia's first female governor, Abigail Spanberger, makes history by wearing white to her inauguration, symbolizing women's suffrage, instead of the traditional morning suit.

RICHMOND, Va. — In a historic move, Gov. Abigail Spanberger, Virginia's first woman governor, donned a white outfit at her inauguration, breaking away from the traditional morning coats worn by governors. Her attire, featuring a long white coat with gold buttons, was a tribute to the women’s suffrage movement. During her speech, Spanberger acknowledged the struggles faced by suffragists and expressed gratitude for their efforts in paving the way for future generations of women.

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — In a significant departure from tradition, Virginia's first female governor, Abigail Spanberger, chose to wear white for her inauguration on Saturday. This color, symbolizing women's suffrage, marked a historic moment as Spanberger took the oath of office. Traditionally, male governors appear in morning coats, while female governors are expected to wear dark suits. Many in attendance, including Spanberger's husband, adhered to these customs, but the new governor opted for her own style.

Spanberger's inauguration look featured an elegant long white coat adorned with gold buttons, along with white gloves, reflecting a living tribute to the women who fought for the right to vote. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of this milestone and expressed deep appreciation for the generations of women activists who made it possible.

“I maintain an abiding sense of gratitude to those who work, generation after generation, to ensure women could be among those casting ballots, but who could only dream of a day like today,” she stated. Despite inquiries from the media regarding her choice of outfit, Spanberger has clarified her intention to break from the tradition of morning coats, stating, “I’m not going to wear a morning coat, not to disappoint anyone.”