Virginia’s Redistricting Referendum Is a Power Grab | Opinion
Summary
Virginia voters will decide on April 21 whether to approve a new congressional map drawn by Democrats that would change the number of seats Democrats hold from 6 to 10 out of 11. This new map bypasses a bipartisan redistricting commission that voters approved in 2020 and has raised legal challenges and debate about fairness.Key Facts
- Virginia voters approved a bipartisan redistricting commission in 2020 with over 65% support.
- Democrats propose a new map giving them 10 out of 11 congressional seats, up from 6.
- The new map removes four Republican-held districts.
- The proposed change would affect elections in 2026, 2028, and 2030.
- Courts ruled the proposed amendment unlawful twice due to procedural and legal issues.
- The Virginia Supreme Court allows the referendum on the ballot while the legal case continues.
- Democrats argue the change is temporary and fair; opponents say it is gerrymandering (drawing district lines to favor a party).
- The change would give map-drawing power to the Democrat-controlled Virginia General Assembly instead of the bipartisan commission.
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