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Spanberger’s outgoing message
The new members of Congress will be sworn in tomorrow for a two-year term in the House of Representatives. Outgoing VA-07 Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger chose not to run for reelection last year so that she can focus all of her attention on a gubernatorial run this year. She sent a message out to all of her constituents this morning, talking about her time in Congress and thanking everyone for their support.
Read the full message from Spanberger below:
“As my time representing Virginia's Seventh District in the U.S. House of Representatives comes to a close, I want to express my deep gratitude for the trust and responsibility that you've placed in me over the past six years. Serving as your representative has been the honor of a lifetime. I'm immensely proud of what we've achieved by focusing on the issues that matter most to our neighbors. When I first ran for Congress, I promised to work on lowering healthcare costs, improving infrastructure and supporting our veterans.
“I promised to protect the rights of every Virginian and help our small businesses thrive, and together, we've made incredible progress in each of these areas. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we've secured investments that are expanding and rebuilding Virginia's roads, bridges, rail and water infrastructure — and we've tackled some of the toughest challenges facing Virginia. By working with local leaders and my colleagues in Congress — Republicans and Democrats — we have strengthened programs to help our neighbors struggling with addiction, and I've worked to combat the flow of fentanyl into our communities. I'm also proud of the work that we've done to make healthcare more affordable. We've capped the cost of insulin for Medicare beneficiaries and empowered Medicare to negotiate drug prices, steps that are saving lives and keeping money in Virginian’s pockets.
“For those who served our country in uniform, we've expanded access to VA health care for tens of thousands of Virginia's veterans. We work to make sure that all of our bravest neighbors receive these resources, support, and the benefits that they've earned through their service.
“I've been proud to consistently be ranked one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and the most bipartisan from Virginia because I know that finding common ground and building coalitions is how we can continue to actually get things done. All the while, my team and I've been focused on being responsive and accountable to you, your families and our communities across the Seventh District.
“I've worked with local leaders to secure more than $42 million for 40 community-driven projects to support public schools, invest in our law enforcement, fund transportation and infrastructure projects, and address specific local needs. We've also helped resolve more than 11,000 constituent cases, returning nearly $50 million in backlogged federal benefits, including Social Security checks, tax refunds and veterans benefits.
“For me, this work has always been about making sure our government works for you in the moments when you need it most. It's also about demanding accountability and transparency, and as I prepare to pass the responsibility of serving you to Congressman-elect Eugene Vindman, I feel confident that the Seventh District will continue to have strong, dedicated representation on Capitol Hill.
“As I reflect on the past six years, I feel overwhelming gratitude for the people that I've met across Virginia's Seventh District and the experiences that we've shared together. The most rewarding moments have been when I've had the privilege to witness the strength, care and resolve of the people who call the Seventh District home. Whether at town halls, school events, farm tours, business visits, metal pinnings or ribbon cuttings, you all have inspired me and deepened my resolve to always serve with purpose and integrity. I'm profoundly grateful for the trust that you've placed in me and for the opportunity to advocate for you, your families and our communities.
“Though my time in Congress is coming to an end, my commitment to the continued success and well-being of Virginia remains strong. Thank you so much for the honor of representing you in Congress.”
ICYMI: Spanberger talks leaving Congress, running against Winsome Sears, and more.
I recently talked to Rep. Abigail Spanberger about her decision to leave Congress and her campaign for governor. She contrasts a Spanberger administration with a Sears administration, she talks about how she would support getting Virginia back into RGGI, how she thinks Youngkin has done as governor in more.
