RICHMOND, VA – Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears is calling out Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Abigail Spanberger for what she describes as “rage-based rhetoric” after a campaign video showing Spanberger encouraging voters to “let your rage fuel you” went viral.
The clip, widely shared online, featured Spanberger and several supporters using the word “rage” repeatedly as a rallying cry for political engagement.
Sears responded with sharp criticism, saying, “This year has shown us the consequences of rage politics. And Abigail Spanberger wants more of it.”
The remarks highlight growing tension in Virginia’s governor’s race, where tone and temperament have become central campaign issues.
Dangerous rhetoric fueling nationwide political violence
In 2025, several serious incidents of political violence occurred in the United States and abroad.
- In April, someone set fire to part of the governor’s mansion in Pennsylvania while the governor’s family was inside. The person later pleaded guilty.
- In June, a gunman attacked Minnesota legislators: one state representative was killed, and a state senator and his wife were wounded. A “target list” of politicians was found in connection to the case.
- In September, at Utah Valley University, a shooting during a public event killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Public reaction splits along party lines
The video quickly drew intense reactions across social media, with both praise and condemnation flooding comment sections. Supporters of Sears argued the clip reinforced their concerns about the emotional pitch of Spanberger’s campaign.
One commenter, Susan Revels-Parker, wrote, “My not rage but sober clarity fueled me to the ballot box to vote the color you fuel me to pick: red. Thank you for the motivation. Winsome for the win!”
Spanberger campaign silent on criticism
As of Wednesday, Spanberger’s campaign had not issued a formal response to Sears’ remarks. However, sources close to her campaign suggested the video was intended to convey passion and persistence rather than anger, a typical response to violent political theater and rhetoric in 2025.
Sears, meanwhile, has continued to position herself as a candidate promoting stability and restraint, contrasting Spanberger’s emotional appeal with her own message of discipline and unity.