• Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger will deliver the Democratic response to Trump's State of the Union.
• This marks Spanberger's first significant national address since being elected in November.
• California Sen. Alex Padilla will give the Spanish-language rebuttal.
• Spanberger aims to address cost-of-living concerns and critique Trump's administration.
• Democratic leaders highlight her as a rising star within the party.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger is set to deliver the Democratic response to President Trump's State of the Union address, marking a significant moment in her political career as she emphasizes her focus on affordability and the challenges facing everyday Americans. Spanberger, a former congresswoman and CIA officer, made history as the first female governor of Virginia after her election in November. She expressed the importance of this moment, stating, "We are at a defining moment in our nation's history" as Americans face rising costs and uncertainty, according to NPR, CBS News, and BBC.

Her address, expected to be delivered from Colonial Williamsburg, intends to reflect the historical significance of the location and Spanberger's commitment to democratic ideals, stating that it represents "the power of ordinary citizens to shape the future of our nation." Democratic leaders have framed Spanberger's perspectives as a "stark contrast" to Trump's narrative, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighting her ability to articulate the party's platform effectively, according to NPR, CBS News, and BBC.

Additionally, California Senator Alex Padilla will provide the Spanish-language response to the State of the Union. Padilla, the first Latino elected to the U.S. Senate from California, aims to address issues of accountability and stability within the government, asserting that "Americans demand and deserve accountability, stability, and a government that works for them," according to NPR, CBS News, and BBC.

The choice of Spanberger to deliver the Democratic rebuttal highlights her rapid rise within the party, particularly after she won her gubernatorial race by securing 57.6% of the vote. Her background as a public servant and her experience in Congress has been emphasized by Democratic leaders, presenting her as a well-rounded figure capable of addressing the challenges the nation faces, especially in light of Trump's policies and administration, according to NPR, CBS News, and BBC.