Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger was met with loud boos from portions of the crowd during a brief appearance on stage at the 90th annual Old Fiddlers' Convention in Galax, Virginia, over the weekend. The reception occurred as the governor faces sagging poll numbers and political fallout from a failed Democratic push to redraw the state's congressional map.
Video from the event shows Spanberger taking the stage for approximately half a minute, where she was greeted by a chilly reception from attendees. Spanberger later posted a social media video highlighting her visit, describing it as an "incredible time" with "great food, great music, and great community," but made no mention of the boos.
Spanberger's job approval rating has slipped in recent months. A July poll from Virginia Commonwealth University found 44% of registered voters approved of her performance, while 47% disapproved, which the pollsters noted was an unusually weak showing for a new Virginia governor.
The governor also navigated a contentious redistricting battle earlier in the year. She supported a mid-decade redistricting effort by Democrats that aimed to significantly alter Virginia's congressional delegation. While voters narrowly approved the proposal in April after a campaign reportedly costing $70 million, the Supreme Court of Virginia later struck down the measure in a 4-3 ruling, citing lawmakers' failure to adhere to constitutional procedures. The existing congressional map remains in place.
Republican Del. Tom Garrett, who represents Virginia’s 56th District, stated that the reception was warranted, linking it to the redistricting effort. He claimed Spanberger had promised not to pursue a mid-decade redistrict to gain power but then led the charge.
Republican Del. Wren Williams, whose district includes Galax, also commented on the crowd's expression of displeasure. He questioned the results of the affordability agenda Spanberger has championed and suggested the redistricting effort aimed to disenfranchise voters in areas like the one he represents.
A statement from the governor's office indicated that Spanberger and her husband, Adam, enjoyed their time at the convention and a related event, the Poor Man's Dinner. "The Governor is grateful to all those who work year after year to make this event a success and a point of pride for all Virginians," the statement read.
The Old Fiddlers' Convention is a long-standing tradition in Galax, drawing musicians and visitors for bluegrass and old-time music performances and competitions. Spanberger's appearance in Southwest Virginia also highlighted the geographic challenges Democrats face in the state, as she won the governorship by 15 points in November, but the reception in Galax indicated continued resistance outside of Northern Virginia and other population centers.