Virginia voters delivered a narrow victory to Democrats, approving a ballot measure that lets the Democratic-led legislature bypass the state’s bipartisan redistricting commission and redraw congressional districts ahead of this year’s midterms. The Associated Press called the race for the “yes” side, which led by nearly 3 percentage points with about 95% of results reported.
The new map could boost Democrats from six current seats to as many as 10 of Virginia’s 11 congressional districts, a four-seat gain that could significantly affect Democratic hopes of retaking the U.S. House this fall. The special redistricting vote drew heavy advertising from both sides and mixed polling, leaving many voters confused before the close result.
The outcome comes amid a broader national battle over congressional maps. Last year, former President Trump pushed Texas lawmakers to create additional Republican-leaning seats, while California voters approved a plan to add Democratic-leaning seats—offsetting some GOP gains. Republicans had gained ground after redistricting in Missouri and North Carolina, but Virginia’s result erases some of that edge.
Legal challenges loom. The Virginia Supreme Court has not yet ruled on challenges to the redistricting move, and litigation could block any new districts from being used in this year’s elections. Former Republicans Jason Miyares and Eric Cantor, co-chairs of Virginians for Fair Maps, indicated they plan to pursue court action, saying those “disenfranchised by today’s vote will have their day in court.” Supporters, including Kéren Charles Dongo of Virginians for Fair Elections, hailed the vote as a pushback against efforts they say would rig congressional maps.
Florida is set to enter the national fight as well. Gov. Ron DeSantis has called a special legislative session for the end of the month seeking new maps that would favor Republicans. Florida lawmakers are not seeking voter approval, even though a 2010 ballot amendment bars drawing maps to favor one party.