VIRGINIA, Feb. 25 — Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger delivered a sharply critical response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, accusing his administration of pursuing policies that she said have increased costs and weakened economic security for American families.
Spanberger focused heavily on rising costs, arguing that the administration’s trade policies have imposed financial burdens on households and businesses across the country.
“Since this president took office last year, his reckless trade policies have forced American families to pay more than $1,700 each in tariff costs. Small businesses have suffered. Farmers have suffered, some losing entire markets. Everyday Americans are paying the price,” she said.
She added that although the U.S. Supreme Court recently struck down the tariffs, the economic damage had already been done and warned that additional tariffs could be introduced.
Spanberger also criticized recently passed federal legislation, saying it has negatively affected healthcare access and affordability.
“Rural health clinics in Virginia and across the country are already closing their doors thanks to the so-called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ championed by the president and Republicans in Congress,” she said, adding that the law threatens hospitals, increases energy and housing costs, and reduces food assistance for children.
In contrast, Spanberger highlighted her efforts at the state level, saying she is working with lawmakers in Virginia to lower costs and improve affordability.
“Democrats across the country are laser-focused on affordability,” she said, adding that Americans deserve leadership focused on addressing everyday economic challenges.
Drawing on her background as a former federal agent and CIA officer, Spanberger also criticized federal immigration enforcement practices, calling for accountability and reforms.
“Our broken immigration system is something to be fixed, not an excuse for unaccountable agents to terrorize our communities,” she said.
She also raised concerns about the administration’s foreign policy, accusing it of weakening the nation’s global standing and questioning whether the president’s actions have enhanced national security.
“In his speech tonight, the president did what he always does: he lied, he scapegoated, and he distracted. And he offered no real solutions to our nation’s pressing challenges,” she said.
Despite her criticism, Spanberger concluded her remarks on an optimistic note, emphasizing civic responsibility and the power of citizens to demand change.
“As a mother of three school-aged daughters, I am inspired by their bravery, but I am sickened that it is necessary. Because we the people have the power to make change, the power to stand up for what is right, and the power to demand more of our nation,” she said.
She concluded by offering blessings for Virginia and the United States.
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