Virginia Republicans criticize redistricting change ahead of special election

Virginia Republicans Criticize Proposed Redistricting Amendment

As Virginia approaches a special election on Tuesday, state Republicans have expressed strong disapproval of a proposed constitutional amendment. They believe this change could lead to a significant loss of congressional seats, labeling the initiative as one of the most “unfair” redistricting efforts in the country.

Representative Rob Whitman (R-Va.) thinks many voters share this feeling. He remarked, “This morning I was with a group of Virginia Watermen from all over the state, and they feel the same way. They’re saying, ‘No, we don’t want to be governed by just a few areas.’”

This redistricting proposal requires voter approval statewide, amidst ongoing struggles in states like Texas, California, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, and Utah.

Republicans argue that this drastic shift misrepresents Virginia’s diverse electorate. If the new map receives approval, it may potentially expand traditional Republican territory, shifting the current 6-5 congressional split to a 10-1 advantage for Democrats. Notably, Virginia’s usual redistricting process, conducted through a bipartisan commission, is expected to resume with the next U.S. Census in 2030.

With an aim to regain control of the House, which is currently held by Republicans with a 217-213 majority, Democrats are pushing for this amendment. They frame the initiative as a response to gerrymandering efforts primarily seen in Texas.

Governor Abigail Spanberger commented, “Virginia’s redistricting referendum gives voters the power to counterbalance those who think they deserve more Republican seats before midterm voting.” She noted the importance of this initiative after voting commenced last month.

Conversely, former Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin maintains that existing congressional boundaries more accurately reflect the state’s demographic makeup. He stated, “We currently have a fair map that represents Virginians. This constitutional amendment would lead to the most unfair map in the country. Voting ‘no’ is the right call.”

The Supreme Court has upheld that favoring one party through the design of voting districts is constitutional, yet gerrymandering has been prohibited in Virginia since a 2020 referendum. However, the Virginia Supreme Court has allowed for temporary constitutional amendments for new maps.

Rep. Jen Quiggans (R-Va.) pointed out the confusing wording of the referendum, saying, “The way that question is phrased is insane. It’s so poorly written. But we have a chance to make our voices heard, and it’s powerful.”

Whitman is concerned about the potential reinstatement of gerrymandering, even if just temporarily. He emphasized, “Virginians spoke in 2020, and they clearly rejected gerrymandering by a supermajority. They wanted a bipartisan approach to these districts.”