By Mark Gad
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) — Abigail Spanberger, representative for Virginia’s 7th District, emphasized the crucial role that Congress and citizens play in shaping the country’s future during an appearance at the University of Virginia on Thursday.
“I won’t give up on it, because I think every person that worked hard in generations past cannot watch us just give up,” said Spanberger.
During her address, Spanberger expressed her hope for America’s future, saying, “The people who are coming behind us deserve better. Like little kids in other places who dream of someday coming to the United States and building something like this — deserve better. And so that’s what gives me hope.”
Spanberger stressed that hope must be accompanied by action, particularly in making one’s voice heard.
“I think it’s so sad we would allow ourselves to say, ‘I’m not going to vote.’ People died for the right to vote. Like, it’s our voice,” she said.
She noted the importance of civic engagement, especially given the rise of social media in the political landscape. Spanberger described social media as a “frenemy” to democracy, particularly concerning election interference.
“If there were an attack on a physical infrastructure, you’d have every member of Congress on the front steps of the Capitol building saying, ‘This is an attack on democracy.’ But somehow it is viewed differently when we know that they are trying to attack our society, trying to turn Americans against each other,” she said.
Spanberger emphasized her desire for American citizens to be the sole influence on the nation’s future.
“It’s irrelevant to who wins an election. I don’t want my candidate to win because Russia is impacting voters. I don’t want my candidate to lose because Russia is impacting voters.”
She concluded with one request to young voters in the room, saying, “Please vote. Please engage. And please know that when you see something that’s unacceptable, don’t accept it. I think that we should all be encouraged to do better all the time.”
With Election Day quickly approaching, the deadline to request your absentee ballot is Friday by 5 p.m.