Earle-Sears Slams Spanberger's Immigration Stance, Citing Safety and Crime Reduction

Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears criticized a plan announced by her 2025 gubernatorial opponent, Abigail Spanberger. Spanberger intends to rescind an executive order that allows law enforcement and jailers to collaborate with ICE in specific situations. Earle-Sears dismissed Spanberger's plan, stating that she believes Spanberger will not win the election.

Earle-Sears emphasized that the current administration's policies, including the executive order, are based on common sense and have contributed to the safety of Virginians. She highlighted a one-third reduction in statewide crime during her and Governor Youngkin's time in office. She characterized Spanberger's remarks as "dangerous ideas" lacking practical application.

The existing executive order aims to enhance cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and utilize all available methods to arrest and deport criminal illegal immigrants. Earle-Sears argued that Spanberger's stance disregards significant developments in combating illegal immigrant gangs. She cited the arrest of a high-ranking MS-13 member in Manassas, an area previously represented by Spanberger in Congress, as an example.

Spanberger has stated her intention to rescind the executive order, arguing that it diverts local law enforcement from their primary duties and inappropriately involves the state in federal responsibilities. She described the U.S. immigration system as "absolutely broken" and believes that allowing law enforcement to assist in immigration enforcement is a misuse of resources.

Earle-Sears countered that ensuring a safe environment is crucial for economic development and other key priorities for Virginians. She believes that distancing the state from DHS is counterproductive and poses a danger to both citizens and federal agents involved in immigration operations. Earle-Sears, herself an immigrant who came to the U.S. legally, contrasted her experience with that of illegal immigrants with criminal records, emphasizing her family's pursuit of opportunity and a better life. She stated that the state does not want criminals preying on the population.

Governor Youngkin also responded to the news, suggesting that the choice in the upcoming election is clear. He stated that Spanberger promises to turn Virginia into a sanctuary state for dangerous illegal immigrants, while Earle-Sears promises to keep dangerous criminals off the streets.