Thursday, August 13, 2026

How to Destroy a State, in Five Easy Steps

 Jason S. Miyares discusses the decline of Virginia's progress under Democratic governance, particularly focusing on the actions of Governor Abigail Spanberger. Miyares outlines how Democrats have reversed the state’s economic improvements through various policies.

1. Past Achievements: Under Governor Glenn Youngkin (2022-2026), Virginia improved its job creation ranking from 46th to one of the top five states, marked by fiscal responsibility and budget surpluses. The murder rate decreased, and drug overdose deaths also fell due to new initiatives.

2. Current Political Climate: Spanberger's administration has quickly shifted away from the previous achievements. Miyares accuses her of implementing detrimental policies, leading her to become one of the least popular governors in Virginia’s history.

3. Policies in Action:

Tax Increases: Spanberger’s team proposed over $37 billion in new taxes despite a fiscal surplus, including payroll and carbon taxes that could stifle business growth.

Energy Tax Policies: The administration is focusing on green energy but is criticized for neglecting reliable energy sources like natural gas and nuclear power.

Criminal Justice Changes: A program allowing early release for criminals has led to high rates of re-offending, while cooperation with federal law enforcement on deportations of violent offenders has ended, increasing public safety risks.

Labor Regulations: Efforts to abolish right-to-work laws and enforce collective bargaining could lead to increased costs for local governments and taxpayers.

Gerrymandering Efforts: Spanberger has proposed a partisan gerrymander that undermines nonpartisan redistricting reforms, leading to legal challenges.

Miyares asserts that the recent Democratic policies threaten to undo Virginia’s economic and social progress. He warns that this could lead to businesses and families leaving the state, affecting Virginia's future as voters respond to these changes. The ongoing conflict between elected officials and the interests of Virginia residents will likely determine the state's direction in upcoming elections. 

https://www.city-journal.org/article/abigail-spanberger-virginia-glenn-youngkin

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