Affordability or tax hikes? Spanberger agenda caught in political crossfire

By: Markus Schmidt

Outlets: Virginia Mercury

Published: February 5, 2026

Words: 1,862

Last Updated: 3 weeks ago

Body Text Preview

Gov. Abigail Spanberger made affordability the centerpiece of her 2026 agenda, promising relief for Virginians strained by high housing costs, rising energy bills and everyday expenses. But less than a month into the General Assembly session, several dozen tax-increase bills filed by Democratic lawmakers have given Republicans a ready-made political weapon — and an opening to portray the new governor as doing the opposite of what she promised.

Republicans have seized on the proposals …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us