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5h ago

Virginia Voters Approve Mid‑Decade Redistricting Plan Favoring Democrats

Court challenges now decide whether the legislature’s new map can be used in the 2026 midterms.

A voter leaves the polling station after casting his ballot at the Westover Library on April 21, 2026 in Arlington, Virginia. Virginia voters will decide today on a statewide ballot question on whether to allow the Virginia General Assembly to redraw congressional districts which could affect how the state’s U.S. House districts are mapped in upcoming elections and shift political balance.
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Overview

  • Virginia’s referendum, approved Tuesday, passed about 51.5% to 48.6% with most ballots counted, according to the Associated Press.
  • The amendment lets the Democratic-controlled General Assembly replace the voter-created bipartisan redistricting commission and draw U.S. House districts through 2030.
  • The legislature’s map gives Democrats an edge in 10 of 11 districts, shifting the current 6 to 5 split and creating a path to gain up to four seats without guaranteeing wins.
  • The Virginia Supreme Court is weighing challenges after a Tazewell County judge said lawmakers skipped required steps, including an initial vote before early voting began and a three-month public notice.
  • Voters in parts of Hampton Roads would see precincts moved from the swing 2nd District into the nearby 3rd, likely changing who represents areas such as Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and the Eastern Shore.