Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger delivered a pointed Democratic rebuttal Tuesday night, accusing President Donald Trump of dishonesty, division and failing to ease the pressures facing American families.
Responding to the longest State of the Union address in US history, Spanberger said the president “offered no real solutions” and instead relied on what she described as scapegoating and distraction.
“Tonight the president did what he always does,” she said. “He lied, he scapegoated, and he distracted.”
Spanberger structured her response around three direct questions to Americans: Is the president working to make life more affordable? Is he keeping Americans safe at home and abroad? Is he working for you?
Her answer to each was no.
While Trump claimed grocery prices are falling and mortgage rates are at four-year lows, Spanberger argued that many families continue to feel squeezed by housing, food and healthcare costs. She dismissed his economic optimism as detached from everyday realities.
The Virginia governor sharply criticised Trump’s immigration policies, accusing him of “ripping families apart” and damaging America’s global standing. She argued that security and humanity are not mutually exclusive and said the administration’s approach has failed on both fronts.
Spanberger also suggested that Trump’s rhetoric and actions have weakened the country’s reputation as a force for good abroad.
Without directly naming specific legal battles, Spanberger alluded to concerns about democratic norms and the separation of powers. She invoked George Washington’s farewell warning about leaders who exploit division, contrasting that with Americans who “do the right thing” and strengthen the republic.
Her remarks came after a tense evening in the House chamber that included partisan clashes and the removal of a Democratic lawmaker during Trump’s speech.
Spanberger framed November’s midterm elections as a defining choice between unity and division, truth and lies. She pointed to recent Democratic victories as evidence that voters are seeking accountability and practical leadership.
Her rebuttal, lasting under 15 minutes, offered a stark tonal contrast to Trump’s one hour and 48 minute address. Where the president projected triumph and strength, Spanberger delivered a warning that spectacle cannot substitute for solutions, and that voters will ultimately decide which vision prevails.
Erizia Rubyjeana
