Trump tears into Abigail Spanberger as businesses flee Virginia: 'I can't believe what she's done'

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Saturday, April 11, sharply criticized Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger in a lengthy social media post, accusing her administration of imposing excessive taxes and driving businesses out of the state.

Writing as he traveled to Virginia, Trump claimed the state had lost its economic momentum and warned of long-term consequences.

His remarks focused heavily on taxation policies and comparisons with other states. The comments come as broader political tensions continue over economic and legislative priorities in Virginia.

Trump criticizes Virginia's economic direction under Abigail Spanberger

In his statement, Trump said, “Heading to Virginia for meetings at Trump National. I can’t believe what this new Governor, Spanberger, has done to the Commonwealth — So sad!”

He went on to list several taxes he claimed were being introduced, including “a Food and Beverage Tax, Digital Services Tax, Utilities Tax, and more.”

Trump argued that these measures were negatively impacting the state’s economic environment.

“It has lost its Energy, Vitality, and Strength. People are leaving that would never have even thought of doing so!” he wrote, adding that companies previously committed to investing in Virginia were now reconsidering. 

“New companies that signed to come into the Commonwealth under Governor Youngkin are now looking for ways to get out, Break their Deal,” he added.

He further described the shift as rapid, stating, “It all happened so fast! This went from a thriving and powerful place, one envied by all, to a Commonwealth run by a person who has no concept of Low Taxes and Economic Strength.” 

Trump also claimed that some voters were expressing regret, writing, “People that voted for Spanberger are saying to themselves, ‘Why did I do that, what have I done?’”

The president expanded his criticism beyond Virginia, drawing comparisons to other states. “We have a similar situation in New York and, most of all, in California, where Rich, Job Producing people and companies are being forced to FLEE at levels never seen before,” he said.

He added that “The Tax Base in California is literally disappearing,” attributing this to policies such as proposed wealth taxes.

DOJ warns of legal action over Virginia firearm legislation

Separately, the Trump administration indicated it is closely monitoring legislative developments in Virginia related to gun control.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon said the Department of Justice is “standing by” to take legal action if certain measures are enacted.

In a letter to the governor, she wrote that lawmakers have sent “over 20 bills that restrict Second Amendment rights” for consideration.

“President Trump issued Executive Order 14206, making clear that this administration will take affirmative steps to ensure that Second Amendment rights must not be infringed,” Dhillon wrote. 

She added that the DOJ could intervene if such measures are enacted, stating, “I urge you to reconsider allowing any bill that would infringe on the lawful use of protected firearms by law-abiding citizens to become law.”

A spokesperson for Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones criticized the DOJ’s position, calling it “a distortion of the very purpose of the Office of Civil Rights,” and said the state would defend its laws if challenged.