Virginia Gov. Spanberger Delivers Democratic Response to State of the Union

Calls on Americans to reject 'unacceptable excesses of poor leadership' and demand more from their government

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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In a speech delivered from the historic House of Burgesses chambers in Williamsburg, Virginia, Gov. Abigail Spanberger provided the Democratic response to President Trump's State of the Union address. Spanberger challenged the President's truthfulness, criticized his policies, and called on Americans to unite and demand more from their leaders.

Why it matters

Spanberger's response offered a contrasting Democratic vision and critique of the President's leadership, highlighting key issues like affordability, public safety, and government accountability that are likely to be central to the 2024 election.

The details

Spanberger questioned whether the President is working to make life more affordable, keep Americans safe, and serve the interests of the people. She cited the President's trade policies, healthcare legislation, and treatment of immigrants as examples of how his actions have harmed everyday Americans. Spanberger also accused the President of corruption and divisiveness, arguing that he has endangered America's standing in the world.

  • Spanberger delivered the response on February 25, 2026, following President Trump's State of the Union address.
  • The speech took place in the historic House of Burgesses chambers in Williamsburg, Virginia, where the Virginia Colony's governing body met starting in 1705.

The players

Abigail Spanberger

The Governor of Virginia, who previously worked as a federal agent and CIA officer.

President Donald Trump

The President of the United States whose State of the Union address Spanberger was responding to.

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What they’re saying

“Tonight, as we watched our nation's lawmakers gather for a joint session of Congress, we did not hear the truth from our President.”

— Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Virginia

“In his speech tonight, the President did what he always does: he lied, he scapegoated, and he distracted.”

— Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Virginia

What’s next

Spanberger's response is likely to shape the Democratic messaging and policy agenda leading up to the 2024 presidential election, as the party seeks to contrast its vision with the Trump administration's record.

The takeaway

Spanberger's speech underscores the deep partisan divide in the country and the high stakes of the upcoming elections, as Americans grapple with issues of affordability, public safety, and the role of government.