The MeidasTouch Podcast: Abigail Spanberger Discusses Massive Vibe Shift in Virginia

Release Date: July 5, 2025

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas engage in a compelling discussion with Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger about the significant political shifts occurring in Virginia. The conversation delves into the current political climate, Spanberger's gubernatorial campaign strategies, and the pressing issues facing Virginians today.

Current Political Landscape in Virginia

The episode kicks off with a detailed analysis of Donald Trump's declining approval ratings in Virginia. According to recent polling by Civics, Trump remains highly unpopular across various demographics:

• General Approval: Only 38% approve of Trump, while a substantial 58% disapprove.
• Age Breakdown:
  • 18-34: A striking 68% disapprove.
  • 35-49: 61% disapprove.
  • 50-64: 51% disapprove.
  • 65 and above: 52% disapprove as well.
• Gender and Ethnicity:
  • Females: 66% disapprove.
  • Independents: 56% disapprove.
  • Black or African American: A significant 84% disapprove.
  • Hispanic/Latino: 62% disapprove, citing concerns over policies like mass deportation.

Notable Quote:

"When you go to the cross tabs, you see young people absolutely despise him. 68% of young people 18 to 34 disapprove they see Donald Trump stealing their future." — Political Commentator [02:15]

These statistics highlight a massive vibe shift in Virginia, suggesting a move away from Trump's influence and signaling a potential turning point in the upcoming gubernatorial race.

Abigail Spanberger’s Campaign Strategy

Spanberger emphasizes the importance of ground-level campaigning, particularly in traditionally Republican strongholds like Lynchburg and Wytheville. She undertook a bus tour to engage directly with voters in these regions, aiming to bridge the political divide and garner support across the Commonwealth.

Notable Quote:

"I've Always won in my congressional races before. Now, my campaign for governor by campaigning everywhere, by endeavoring to ensure that every voter knows who I am, why I'm running, why I'm asking for their vote..." — Abigail Spanberger [05:30]

Her approach focuses on personal interactions and listening to constituent concerns, addressing key issues such as affordability, healthcare, housing, and public education.

Addressing Voter Concerns

The discussion highlights several critical issues affecting Virginians:

• Unemployment Surge: Virginia is experiencing the longest unemployment increase since the Great Recession, linked to policies attributed to Trump and the state's current administration.

Notable Quote:

"We're looking at the new data showing Virginia's unemployment rate increasing for five straight months, the longest streak since 2008. Great Recession, and of course, Medicaid cuts and other essential services being taken away." — Political Commentator [04:31]

• Healthcare and Medicaid: Spanberger recounts conversations with healthcare professionals concerned about Medicaid cuts and the potential shutdown of local hospitals.

Notable Quote:

"I had a young man come up to me in southwest Virginia and say that he is really worried about the future of Medicaid and the future of healthcare in Virginia." — Abigail Spanberger [07:17]

• Economic Struggles: Voters are grappling with food security, cost of living, and housing affordability, leading to increased advocacy for policy changes.

Spanberger’s Policy Agenda

Spanberger outlines her "affordability agenda", which encompasses:

• Housing: Implementing measures to make housing more affordable.
• Healthcare: Protecting and expanding access to healthcare services.
• Energy: Developing sustainable and economical energy solutions.
• Public Education: Strengthening the public education system to ensure quality and accessibility.

She contrasts her comprehensive approach with her opponent's focus on culture wars and tax cuts for billionaires, which she argues do not resonate with the broader electorate.

Notable Quote:

"We're rolling out additional agendas into the near term to make sure that people know that not only do I recognize the starkness of this moment here in the Commonwealth, but I'm actually trying to plan for a brighter future..." — Abigail Spanberger [11:39]

Critique of Opponent’s Policies

Spanberger criticizes her opponent for lacking a coherent plan and relying on divisive rhetoric:

• Opposition Stance: Her opponent supports policies such as banning abortion, opposing same-sex marriage, and removing public funding from schools.

Notable Quote:

"As someone who is campaigning on the ground, I agree with you. The things that my opponent says that she's for, she's for a ban on abortion, she is morally opposed to same sex marriage, she is for taking public dollars out of public schools." — Abigail Spanberger [11:39]

She argues that these positions do not address the urgent needs of Virginians and fail to offer tangible solutions to the state's challenges.

Vision for Virginia’s Future

Spanberger envisions a democratic leadership that prioritizes the needs of the people over the interests of the wealthy:

• Setting an Example: By winning the gubernatorial race, Virginia can serve as a model for other states.
• Comprehensive Support: Focused on creating policies that support affordable living, accessible healthcare, and robust public services.
• Engagement and Accountability: Encouraging voter participation and ensuring that elected officials are responsive to constituents.

Notable Quote:

"We know that we'll set an example that will send a message to the rest of the country with what it is that we do." — Abigail Spanberger [14:48]

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with Spanberger urging listeners to support her campaign through various means:

• Volunteer: Sign up on her website to contribute to the campaign efforts.
• Donate: Provide financial support to fund outreach and policy initiatives.
• Engage on Social Media: Follow her campaign updates and share content to amplify her message.

Notable Quote:

"I welcome anyone to come and visit into the future. And certainly come January, there will be a new governor to greet you." — Abigail Spanberger [14:48]

Spanberger remains optimistic about the election outcome, emphasizing the collective responsibility of Virginians to shape a better future through informed voting and active participation.

Join the Conversation

For more insights and updates from Abigail Spanberger’s campaign, visit her website at abigailspanberger.com and follow her on social media. Stay informed and engaged as Virginia navigates this pivotal political era.

Subscribe to The MeidasTouch Podcast for more in-depth discussions and interviews with key political figures.