WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today issued the following statement after the State of the Union Address.

“Each year, the State of the Union reflects the priorities of the current administration—and it provides the American people with a collective moment to reflect on the strength and security of our country.

“In tonight’s address, President Trump outlined efforts to strengthen the U.S. economy—including the passage of the bipartisan United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and working on a bipartisan infrastructure package to fix our crumbling roads, bridges, and electrical grid. I was proud to pass the USMCA in December, and I’ll be making sure the trade deal delivers on its long-awaited promise of increased market access for Central Virginia producers and businesses. And as the administration and Congress move forward on infrastructure, I’ll be focused on rural high-speed broadband internet in this important national conversation. Access to equal opportunity should not be constrained by zip-code.

“In his address, the President also discussed the need for affordable and accessible healthcare coverage for all Americans. And yet, thousands of Central Virginians with pre-existing conditions still face the threat of their healthcare coverage being stripped away due to the administration’s healthcare lawsuit. Parents of children with chronic diseases remain fearful that their child’s access to healthcare could disappear in an instant. And Medicaid expansion across Virginia remains at serious risk. The health of Central Virginians is of vital importance to our community, our country, and me as their Representative. I’ll continue pushing back against the administration’s partisan sabotage of our healthcare system.

“But even amid efforts to eliminate affordable healthcare access, we can take steps now to lower costs for all Americans. That’s why I’m encouraged by the administration’s apparent focus on lowering prescription drug costs—one of the top concerns I consistently hear across Central Virginia and the focus of bills I’ve introduced, cosponsored, and passed. However, if the President truly wants to lower costs for the American people, I hope he will urge Senator Majority Leader McConnell to take up legislation passed by the House last year to give Medicare the power to negotiate drug prices. We can all agree on the pressing need to lower drug costs, and Central Virginia seniors deserve to see Congress make much-needed progress on this issue that impacts so many of our families and neighbors.

“There is much work ahead. Going forward, my efforts in the U.S. House remain laser-focused on lowering drug costs for our seniors, keeping our communities safe, securing our borders, and preparing the next generation of Central Virginians for success. No matter which administration is in power, and no matter which President is delivering the State of the Union, I will continue to pursue smart and pragmatic policies that put the people of Central Virginia first.”

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