Virginia Governor Tackles Controversial Issues

Governor Abigail Spanberger of Virginia has recently spoken out on various contentious topics during her initial months in office, asserting that Virginia is not a sanctuary state and addressing some troubling favorability polls.

Spanberger has faced criticism for potentially abandoning a 287(g) agreement that was established by her predecessor, Governor Glenn Youngkin, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security. Virginia has witnessed a series of violent crimes allegedly perpetrated by undocumented immigrants, with some claiming involvement by “sanctuary” prosecutors.

Additionally, Spanberger’s redistricting plan, introduced on April 21, attracted backlash, especially from Republicans, as it eliminated nearly all of their supported senators except one.

“Virginia is not a sanctuary. It’s a dead stop,” Spanberger stated shortly after her exit from the executive mansion in Richmond.

“There’s so much misinformation floating around. Not everything on Twitter is accurate, but some of the reports out there are really quite outrageous,” she noted when discussing an Executive Order related to immigration enforcement.

Her directive mandates that state agencies, including Virginia State Police (VSP), remain independent from DHS supervision.

“I feel strongly about this because [VSP] is a leading law enforcement agency. It shouldn’t be the job of our governor or the state to place the Virginia State Police under ICE’s control,” she emphasized.

In West Virginia, only designated and trained law enforcement officials are allowed to carry out immigration duties under the 287(g) agreement. This means any such enforcement must happen under the supervision of ICE.

Spanberger refuted claims that Virginia law enforcement was banned from collaborating with ICE, and local governments could not establish their own 287(g) agreements.

“That’s incorrect. My predecessor insisted it must be done, but I’m not imposing it,” she explained.

While her statement stands, a bill proposing to enforce such a ban was sent to her desk by Senator Saddam Salim on March 31.

The proposed legislation would prevent Virginia law enforcement from engaging in 287(g) agreements unless presented with a judicial warrant or similar documentation signed by a judge regarding suspected illegal immigrants.

Spanberger clarified that the Department of Corrections continues to submit monthly lists of noncitizens in custody to DHS. Reports suggesting that Virginia is unable to coordinate with federal agencies were misleading, she claimed.

“The only thing I said state agencies couldn’t pursue was a 287(g) agreement. The task force is cooperating, and all that remains in place, including the J.T.T.,” she added.

If ICE requests help from Richmond and has a relevant warrant, the state would be willing to assist, she stated.

Additionally, she addressed concerns about a Washington Post poll showing her low favorability rating, mentioning humorously, “If everyone dislikes me, why would they include my face on the referendum mailer?”

Spanberger, who has been scrutinized for her stance against gerrymandering in support of a 2019 referendum, recently reiterated her endorsement for Virginia Senate President L. Louise Lucas’ controversial revote.

She emphasized that her election signature, showing a “17-point swing,” is the only poll that truly counts. “Now I’m just doing my job for Virginia,” she asserted.

“What matters to me is what I offer to the people. I was aware that I had big ambitions from the start,” she remarked, reflecting on her priorities.

Spanberger pointed out that critiques of her performance contradict the general belief that she has persuasive abilities, as she is widely recognized in various zoning mail outs.

“I voted yes and encourage others to do the same,” she stated when discussing claims about making a fuss regarding Virginia’s redistricting, contrasting her situation with that of California’s Governor Gavin Newsom.

On Thursday, ICE Director Todd Lyons was questioned about Spanberger, stating she should “read the headlines” regarding the situations occurring in Fairfax and other regions before distancing herself from ICE.

“I never imagined I’d see anyone campaigning against law enforcement. Elected officials, including the governor, are reaching out to collaborate with us, which is what we desire,” he remarked.