VA Dem Gov Candidate Admits Politics Are More Important Than Virginians’ Jobs [WATCH]

Rep. Abigail Spanberger of Virginia said she would not work with President Donald Trump on job creation efforts if she were elected governor, according to comments made during a PBS NewsHour interview this week.

Spanberger, who represents Virginia’s 7th Congressional District and is considered a leading Democratic contender in the 2025 gubernatorial race, made the remarks when asked whether she would collaborate with the White House on policies aimed at boosting employment and economic growth in the state.

When pressed by the interviewer about whether she would coordinate with President Trump to expand job opportunities in Virginia, Spanberger said she would not, comparing cooperation with the administration to “working with the arsonist who burns down the house.”

Reporter: Would you work with President Trump on areas like job creation?

Spanberger: No pic.twitter.com/82yw7QIXDk

— Greg Price (@greg_price11) October 31, 2025

The exchange drew attention online and from political observers in Richmond, with critics noting that Spanberger’s comments come as the national economy continues to show improvement under the Trump administration.

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Major stock indexes have remained strong, inflation has eased from highs earlier in the decade, and interest rates have been reduced following Federal Reserve action to stabilize the lending market.

Spanberger’s statement was interpreted by analysts as a signal that she intends to distance herself from the Trump administration entirely if she wins the governor’s office, even in areas of potential bipartisan cooperation such as workforce development, infrastructure investment, and manufacturing.

The Virginia Democrat has kept a relatively low profile during the early stages of the gubernatorial race, declining numerous press opportunities while focusing on fundraising and regional campaign appearances.

Her campaign platform has centered on public education, clean energy investment, and expanding health care access, while largely avoiding detailed policy discussions involving the White House or federal partnerships.

President Trump’s administration has credited its trade and fiscal policies with helping to sustain U.S. job growth and stabilize consumer markets.

Recent agreements between the United States and Asian trading partners have been framed by the White House as key to strengthening American manufacturing and export competitiveness.

The administration has also cited the expansion of small business incentives and infrastructure grants as evidence of continued economic progress.

Spanberger’s decision to reject cooperation with the president on job creation marks a sharp contrast with previous Virginia governors, both Republican and Democratic, who have traditionally worked with federal agencies and the White House on economic initiatives.

Her comments have also reignited discussion about the Democratic Party’s broader posture toward the Trump administration.

Spanberger, a former CIA officer first elected to Congress in 2018, has positioned herself as a centrist within her party but has often aligned with national Democratic leadership on key votes.

The interview also addressed social policy issues, including Spanberger’s past comments on gender and public accommodations.

During an press conference in September, she was asked about her stance on policies allowing biological males to access women’s locker rooms and restrooms.

Her response drew scrutiny online after she appeared to avoid directly answering whether she supports such measures.

🚨BREAKING🚨

Abigail Spanberger is FINALLY asked a question—It did not go well.

Nick Minock asked Spanberger face to face whether she supported men in Women’s locker rooms.

The following was her answer:

“The circumstances this legal case plays out is really one of we’ve had… pic.twitter.com/GvCYryTG8n

— Walter Curt (@WCdispatch_) September 20, 2025

Spanberger’s remarks come as the Virginia gubernatorial race continues to take shape ahead of the state’s 2025 election.

She is expected to formally launch her campaign later this year, joining a growing field of Democratic contenders.

Republicans are expected to highlight her unwillingness to collaborate with the Trump administration as evidence of partisanship heading into what is anticipated to be one of the most closely watched state races in the country.