A Virginia Republican delegate is standing firm after receiving a death threat, turning her frustration toward Democratic gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger. Delegate Kim Taylor told Fox News Digital that Spanberger’s comments urging supporters to “let your rage fuel you” only stir division. Spanberger, a former U.S. Representative, insists her words were intended to inspire civic engagement, not cause violence. However, Taylor sharply rejected this explanation, stating, “Sorry, Abigail, you don’t get to walk it back.” Her criticism highlights a sentiment shared by many who are wary of the political climate.
The threat against Taylor came from Michael Ray Strawmyer, a 33-year-old from Dinwiddie County, who expressed intent to kill her over his discontent with Republicans. On Monday, Strawmyer appeared at a remote court hearing and is currently being held in a state prison. Taylor pointed out that such violent threats echo a broader pattern. She referred to past incidents, noting, “This is the same violent rhetoric we’ve seen from Democrats for years and Republicans have paid the price.” Taylor drew on historical examples to underline her point: “Steve Scalise nearly killed on a baseball field, President Trump targeted by an assassin.” The trend of inflammatory language, according to Taylor, creates a risky environment for political leaders.
When questioned about her rhetoric, Spanberger defended her comments, claiming they had been taken out of context. A spokesperson for Spanberger told the Petersburg Progress-Index that the candidate “immediately condemned this horrific threat.” Yet, Taylor remains unconvinced. Her assertion that “a real leader will unite Virginia and lead with courage, not rage” captures the essence of her campaign philosophy.
Taylor won her seat by narrowly unseating Sen. Laschresce Aird in one of Virginia’s most Democratic areas and just recently faced another close election. Looking ahead, she will contest against Kimberly Pope Adams, who also ran in the last tight race. Adams has criticized the Trump administration and its cuts to social services, highlighting a divide that persists within Virginia politics.
Additionally, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, running for governor, weighed in on the situation. Drawing attention to Virginia’s tourism slogan, she contrasted it with the kind of rhetoric exemplified by Spanberger, implying that unity and kindness should prevail over anger and division. As the political landscape shifts, Taylor’s defiance in the face of threats shows a commitment to advocate for her constituents, regardless of the stakes.
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