HENRICO, V.A. – U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger tonight issued the following statement after President Joe Biden’s Joint Address to Congress.

“While the damaging effects of the COVID-19 crisis continue, President Joe Biden tonight articulated a clear message of unity, resolve, and — above all — hope in the face of these challenges. This message rose above the corrosive strains of hyper-partisanship that have plagued our politics for far too long. I am looking forward to seeing in practice how this focus — a focus on our shared sense of purpose — can spark important, bipartisan conversations and ultimately deliver progress on a range of issues facing our nation.

“But President Biden’s speech contained more than rhetoric. His address charted a course toward a strong economic recovery, a sound defeat of this virus, and an America that lives up to its promise of opportunity for everyone. In his speech, I was encouraged to hear that the administration will be focused on creating new jobs, supporting small businesses, taking care of working families, and making sure the next generation of workers has the training they need to remain competitive and successful. This vision is one that should unite Democrats and Republicans.

“Additionally, I was glad to hear the President outline his priorities for rebuilding our nation’s physical infrastructure. For Central Virginians, we know that expanded high-speed broadband internet access must be at the heart of this conversation — and I was encouraged by President Biden’s direct mention of this pressing need. The American Rescue Plan laid the groundwork for many of these investments at the state and local level, and we should commit to building on these long-term investments. In the coming weeks and months, I will be pressing the administration and my colleagues in Congress to close the digital divide and make high-speed internet more affordable and accessible for everyone in the Seventh District.

“On issues ranging from infrastructure improvements to prescription drug costs, Central Virginians are looking for leadership that can solve problems — not exacerbate them. We have tough conversations ahead in the coming weeks and months, no doubt, but I am confident that this administration is poised to harness the power of American ingenuity to build back stronger than before, reassert U.S. global leadership, and craft policies that will benefit Central Virginia families, seniors, and businesses.”

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