Illegal immigration is at the forefront of many voters’ minds in the lead-up to the 2024 election, yet Virginia Democrat Abigail Spanberger appears out of touch with the gravity of the issue. In a recent video, Spanberger expressed that it’s “horrifying” to her that crossing the border illegally is labeled a criminal act. This statement raises eyebrows considering that, under federal immigration law, unauthorized entry is indeed a crime. The disconnect between Spanberger’s stance and the reality of immigrants crossing the border without permission is notable and prompts questions about her understanding of the law.
This statement seems to reflect a broader ignorance among some Democrats regarding the legal implications of immigration. Spanberger’s comments indicate a desire to shift the focus away from the legality of crossing the border. As election season intensifies, such viewpoints are causing concern among many Virginians who prioritize tough immigration policies.
The implications for the upcoming governor’s race are significant. As recent polling indicates, the contest is virtually neck and neck. Spanberger has positioned herself as a candidate ready to revert back to a more traditional Democratic approach on immigration, one that many see as counterproductive. She has made it clear that if she wins, she intends to roll back the recent directives of the current Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin, which aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement in Virginia.
In an interview with Virginia Mercury, Spanberger stated her intent to rescind Youngkin’s Executive Order 47. This order tasks Virginia law enforcement with aiding federal immigration enforcement, which Youngkin defended as necessary to remove “dangerous criminal illegal immigrants” from the state. Spanberger, on the other hand, claims that such measures misallocate local resources and ultimately harm community trust in law enforcement.
“Our immigration system is absolutely broken,” Spanberger asserts, arguing against using local police to enforce federal immigration laws. She believes that local agencies should stay focused on community policing and addressing genuine crime rather than enforcing immigration policy. Her remarks highlight a fundamental disagreement with many constituents who feel that local law enforcement should play a role in ensuring public safety in the context of illegal immigration.
The choice for voters in Virginia appears stark as November approaches. Spanberger represents a shift away from the current administration’s focus on stricter immigration policies, which may alienate those who feel strongly about the issue. With immigration emerging as a central theme in the 2024 election, Spanberger’s perspectives could significantly influence her campaign outcome.
As election day nears, voters must carefully consider which direction they want the Commonwealth to take regarding immigration and what this means for their communities. Spanberger’s recent comments challenge traditional views and may complicate her efforts to connect with voters who prioritize lawfulness and safety regarding this pressing issue.
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