Good evening. Good evening and welcome to historic Williamsburg. We are gathered here in the chambers of the House of Burgesses.

In 1705, the people of the Virginia colony gathered here to take on the extraordinary task of governing themselves.

Before there was a declaration of independence, a constitution, or a bill of rights, there were people in this room.

The people who served here ultimately dreamed of what a new nation, unlike anything the world had ever seen could be.

The United States was founded on the idea that ordinary people could reject the

unacceptable excesses of poor leadership, band together to demand better of their government,

and create a nation that would be an example for the world. And this year, as we celebrate 250 years since America declared our independence from tyranny,

I can think of no better place to speak to you as we reflect on the current state of our union. Tonight, as we watched our nation's lawmakers

gather for a joint session of Congress, we did not hear the truth from our president.

So let's speak plainly and honestly, and let me ask you, the American people watching at home, three questions. Is the president

working to make life more affordable for you and your family? Is the president working to

keep American safe both at home and abroad? Is the president working for you? As I campaigned for Governor last year, I traveled to every corner of Virginia, and I heard the same pressing concern everywhere.

Costs are too high in housing, health care, energy, and child care.

And I know these same conversations are being had all across this country.

Because since this president took office last year, his reckless trade policies have forced American families to pay more than $1,700 each in tariff costs. Small businesses have suffered, farmers

have suffered, some losing entire markets. Every day Americans are paying the price. And even though

the Supreme Court struck these tariffs down four days ago, the damage to us, the American people, has already been done.

Meanwhile, the President is planning for new tariffs, another massive tax hike on you and your family.

And Republicans in Congress, they remain unwilling to assert their constitutional authority to stop him.

They're making your life harder. They're making your life more expensive. They're even making it more difficult to see a doctor.

Rural health clinics in Virginia and across the country are already closing their doors thanks to the so-called one big beautiful

bill championed by the president and Republicans in Congress. And tonight the president

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