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In his final State of the Commonwealth address Wednesday night (January 14), Glenn Youngkin struck an optimistic tone while defending his administration’s record and cautioning lawmakers against policy shifts he said could harm Virginia’s economy.
Speaking before a joint session of the Virginia General Assembly, Youngkin described Virginia as a state “full of opportunity,” crediting his administration with attracting major corporate investment and strengthening the workforce since he took office in 2022.
Youngkin said the state has secured more than $157 billion in private-sector investment, highlighting companies such as Lego and Eli Lilly. He also pointed to the creation of tens of thousands of startups and a rise of nearly 270,000 employed Virginians during his term.
On public safety, Youngkin cited a sharp decline in fentanyl overdose deaths, attributing the reduction to tougher criminal penalties and expanded access to life-saving overdose interventions.
Education was another focus of the address. Youngkin praised his administration’s post-pandemic recovery efforts in schools, including the controversial “bell-to-bell” policy that restricts student cellphone use during the school day. He argued the policy has led to improved academic performance, better discipline, and stronger student engagement.
Democrats, however, quickly pushed back. In a statement released after the speech, state party leaders accused Youngkin of overstating his achievements and failing to address rising costs for families, including housing, utilities, and groceries. They also criticized his alignment with national Republican priorities.
With Democrats now holding majorities in both legislative chambers, Youngkin used his remarks to warn against proposals such as ending right-to-work laws, rejoining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, or limiting data center expansion, arguing such moves could drive businesses and workers out of the state.
As he concluded his address, Youngkin thanked Virginians for the opportunity to serve as the state’s 74th governor, saying his administration had helped strengthen the commonwealth’s future.
Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger will be sworn in Saturday and is scheduled to deliver her own State of the Commonwealth address on Monday.
SOURCE: WHSV3