Abigail Spanberger’s Stance on Rezoning in Virginia

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger recently stated that she wouldn’t pursue any rezoning efforts in Virginia if elected governor this November.

When asked about rezoning, Spanberger replied, “The short answer is no.” Local Outlet 7News covered her response.

She mentioned that Virginia underwent a constitutional reform, which introduced a new rezoning process that was initiated during the changes made in 2021.

Spanberger also expressed her curiosity about other states’ approaches but clarified, “I have no plans to edit Virginia.”

Her campaign reiterated this point in a statement.

In Virginia, the governor has limited authority regarding the rezoning process. In 2020, voters ratified constitutional amendments designed to create bipartisan committees. This move aimed to enhance transparency and mitigate partisan gerrymandering. Any significant changes to the process would require further constitutional amendments.

The rezoning process is governed by various regulations that are typically enacted at the beginning of the decade following each census.

In Texas, spurred on by former President Trump, Republicans redrawn the Congressional district map, allowing them to secure five additional seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Approval from both the GOP-controlled council and the governor is all that’s needed to finalize this new map.

In response, California Democrats are also pursuing similar efforts to boost their chances, aiming for five additional pick-up opportunities in the same election cycle. Unlike Texas, California is encouraging voters to push for Democratic initiatives to initiate special elections in November.

Recently, state lawmakers approved parts of the legislative package for the Rigging Operations Act, which includes proposed constitutional amendments and two bills detailing logistics for special elections and mapping proposals.

Leaders in other states are also examining their rezoning options. Maryland Governor Wes Moore indicated during an interview on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” that he’s actively considering the possibilities for his state, saying, “When you say all options are on the table, all options are on the table.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (DN.Y.) similarly left room for potential Democratic rezoning efforts in an interview on CNN’s “The Status of the Union.” He remarked, “California responded with great force…and will continue to respond nationwide when needed. Now, this is happening in Texas. California responded. Let’s see what’s coming next.”