Governor Youngkin’s budget proposals face pushback from Virginia Democrats in a recent address
Richmond: The General Assembly kicked off its session with Governor Glenn Youngkin urging lawmakers to elevate Virginia. Meanwhile, Democrats are pushing back, saying there’s no room for partisan games.
With Democrats holding slim majorities, Youngkin, in his last year as governor, aimed for bipartisanship. He faced criticism for allegedly aligning too closely with Trump’s agenda.
Youngkin declared, “Virginia is growing. Virginia is competing. Virginia is winning,” emphasizing the state’s strength thanks to collective efforts.
In response, state Sen. Lashrecse Aird expressed skepticism about Youngkin’s claims of prosperity, arguing that his plans favor the wealthy while neglecting working families.
Aird, joined by Del. Joshua Thomas, criticized Youngkin’s budget proposals, which include eliminating local car taxes and increasing education funding. She argued that the car tax elimination isn’t a smart way to help people.
She suggested that Senate Democrats want to provide broader economic support, like refundable tax credits, to help families with essential needs.
Aird also took issue with Youngkin’s proposed private school voucher system, saying it benefits only wealthier families and diverts funds from public schools.
Youngkin reiterated his stance on cutting funding for localities that declare themselves “sanctuaries” for illegal immigrants, insisting that violent offenders should be deported.
Aird countered that the focus should be on community safety rather than political posturing, emphasizing the need for effective public safety measures.
The State of the Commonwealth address was delayed due to Richmond’s water crisis, but it set the stage for a contentious legislative session ahead.
