Predicting Virginia’s Economic Growth

Three recent reports predict the Commonwealth’s economic growth will slow next year, including a forecast from UVA’s Weldon Cooper Center that expects GDP to increase by just 1.0% in 2026.

This aligns with a nationwide report from Moody’s Analytics, which included Virginia as one of 22 states that are “in or close to a recession.”

More than 900 furloughed federal workers filed for unemployment benefits in the first two weeks of the month, according to the Virginia Employment Commission. They will have to repay any benefits if they receive back pay when the federal government reopens.

About 189,000 people, 4.7% of Virginia’s workforce, are employed by the federal government. Inflation remains a concern, as food prices increased 1.4% year-over-year through July, with a notable 6.5% rise in the prices of meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.

Some experts pushed back, however. Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings said Moody’s assessment “undervalues the state’s inherent economic resilience,” and Sonya Waddell, vice president at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, noted that the state hasn’t seen a jump in unemployment claims, widespread layoffs, or a drop in state revenue.

Governor’s Race Update

The latest survey of the Virginia governor’s race by the polling firm co/efficient showed Democrat Abigail Spanberger holding on to a lead against Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, 49%-44%.

It’s the first poll taken completely in October and showed little change from the firm’s September survey.

President Trump has not yet made a formal endorsement in the race, although he recently said he supports “the Republican candidate.” He didn’t mention either candidate by name.

Former President Barack Obama said he’ll campaign with Spanberger in Norfolk on Nov. 1. That will be a stop on her 11-day Virginia Votes Bus Tour, which begins next week and includes appearances in all of the Commonwealth’s congressional districts.

Bird Flu Concerns

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) reported findings of groups of dead vultures across the state, especially in the Southwest. Early testing indicated the animals were killed by bird flu.

Since July, DWR has recorded 12 cases of suspected bird flu.

The department warned that anyone who comes into contact with poultry, including backyard chicken flocks, should change their clothes and shoes immediately upon entering a building.

DWR also advised people to avoid picking up or handling sick or dead wild birds and to wear rubber gloves if they must do so. They should also wash their hands thoroughly.

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➤ Alexandria: Former FBI Director James Comey asked a federal judge to dismiss the criminal charges against him, which he called “vindictive and selective.” Comey also called for the removal of Lindsey Halligan, a White House aide named U.S. attorney days before she filed the indictment against him. (Details)

➤ Chesterfield: Chippenham Hospital will break ground today on a new, freestanding emergency room. The facility is expected to open sometime next year. (More)

➤ Roanoke city residents are less healthy than average Virginians, according to data presented by the health department at Monday’s city council meeting. (Details)

➤ Manassas Park: Virginia Railway Express opened a new parking garage to add 700 parking spaces on its line near Amazon’s second headquarters. (More)

➤ Prince William School Board members celebrated the removal of the state’s cap on financial support, which has limited how much funding is available to the district, even as demand for student services has been increasing. (Details)

➤ Statewide: Lawmakers met with stakeholders to discuss the status of gambling in Virginia. They are considering setting up a Virginia Gaming Commission to regulate wagering. (More)

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➤ The Washington Wizards open the NBA regular season tonight on the road at Milwaukee. (Details)

➤ South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer shut down the idea he might leave for Virginia Tech, calling his current role with the Gamecocks a “dream job.” (More)

➤ NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championships tickets go on sale this week. The event will be hosted at UVA’s Scott Stadium during Memorial Day weekend. (Details)

Yesterday’s Results: NBA | NHL | NCAAF | Soccer | Tennis

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➤ Stafford County residents met to discuss whether to approve the construction of a Buc-ee’s off I-95. (Details)

➤ Heven AeroTech, a hydrogen-powered drone maker, opened a new headquarters in Sterling. (More)

➤ Augusta Health shuttered its Churchville Primary Care facility. The provider advised patients to go to its practice in Verona. (Details)

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➤ The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is offering zero-interest emergency loans to service members who may come up short of cash during the federal government shutdown. (Details)

➤ The 2025 Forestry Field Day featured 280 students on 70 teams during the State Fair of Virginia. (More)

➤ The Golden Delicious is the apple of Virginia’s eye. It’s the most common variety of apple grown in orchards in the Commonwealth. (Details)

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Who should Virginia Tech try to hire as its next football coach?

1. James Franklin
2. Shane Beamer
3. Frank Beamer
4. Bud Foster
5. Somebody else

Tuesday’s Results:

What’s your favorite Virginia delicacy? 

1. Ham: 21%
2. Peanuts: 21%
3. Oysters: 20%
4. Blue Crabs: 20%
5. Other: 18%

When is the last time the Washington Wizards made the NBA playoffs?

Show me the answer