Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro hits the trail for Abigail Spanberger in the closing stretch of the Virginia governor's race

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — As Pennsylvania Gov.

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — As Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro trotted out to speak to voters Sunday at a community center in this city in southeastern Virginia, the crowd roared and clapped every time he referred to the person he was there to support: Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominee for governor.

His message wasn’t subtle. Shapiro, a prospective 2028 presidential candidate, lauded Spanberger as a “compassionate,” “caring” and “well-grounded person” who’d act as a “freedom fighter” — and whose leadership would help protect the state from President Donald Trump.

“She’s going to protect your fundamental freedoms. That’s where governors matter most. Because right now we’ve got a president of the United States who’s attacking the states, making it harder for you to get ahead, making stuff cost more and limiting your fundamental freedoms,” Shapiro said to loud applause and yells of support. “I don’t know about you, but I don’t want the White House deciding what my freedoms are. I want to keep my freedoms. The best way to do that is with Abigail.”

Shapiro’s appearance on the campaign trail in Virginia nine days before Election Day made him just the latest big-name Democrat (and potential presidential candidate) to parachute into the blue-leaning state in hope of putting Spanberger over the top against her Republican opponent, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears.

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg came through the Old Dominion last week to appear with Spanberger, while Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear campaigned with her last month. Later this week, Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., is set to drop by an event or two with Spanberger, while former President Barack Obama will headline a rally in Norfolk next weekend.