Across Virginia, the cost of living continues to rise. Groceries, rent, gas, and utilities consume a larger portion of every paycheck, while wages remain stagnant. Young adults are unsure whether they will ever be able to buy a home. Seniors worry about whether retirement will be possible at all.

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This is what an affordability crisis looks like. You can work full-time, do everything “right”, and still struggle.

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This crisis didn’t just happen. It was created by a system that works better for those at the very top than it does for everyone else. While working families stretch every dollar, out-of-touch elites raise prices, pad their pockets, and pass the bill along to the rest of us.

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People here work hard, raise families, and contribute to their community. Yet, too many still fall behind as everyday expenses outpace incomes.

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It doesn’t have to be this way. A good economy shouldn’t be judged by its stock prices or by record-breaking corporate profits. A good economy is one where the people who do the work can afford to live in the communities they love. Seniors can retire without fear. New families can buy their first home. No family is one emergency away from losing everything.

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We can build an economy that works for everyone. One where hard work is rewarded, families stay close to the schools and neighbors they cherish, and opportunity feels within reach again.

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This is our Virginia. A place where everyone deserves a fair shot. Together, we can make it real.