Albemarle GOP hosting forum to oppose redistricting amendment

Republican delegates Tom Garrett and Tim Griffin will attend the event, while Democrat Amy Laufer plans to participate virtually.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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As Virginia Republicans ramp up their campaign against a Democrat-led redistricting amendment, GOP delegates Tom Garrett and Tim Griffin will appear at a forum in Charlottesville on Thursday to inform voters of the Republican position. The Albemarle County Republican Committee is hosting the event, which is in part a response to a Democratic TV ad urging residents to vote 'yes' on the redistricting referendum question. Democratic Del. Amy Laufer said she plans to participate virtually.

Why it matters

The proposed redistricting amendment has become a partisan battleground, with Republicans arguing it would unfairly dilute conservative voices in the state, while Democrats contend it is necessary to counter gerrymandering efforts in other states. The outcome of the April 21 referendum could have significant implications for the balance of power in Virginia's congressional districts.

The details

The Republican delegates will participate in a conversation on the redistricting vote, moderated by Dr. Marshall Pattie. The forum is aimed at educating the local population on the amendment, which the Albemarle GOP believes gives too much power and influence to the heavily Democratic Northern Virginia region. Republicans also take issue with the wording of the ballot question, which they say implies the amendment would make the redistricting process 'fair'.

  • Early voting for the April 21 referendum begins on Friday, March 6.
  • The Virginia Supreme Court is considering whether Democrats followed the state constitution in passing the amendment, but a decision is not expected until after the referendum results.

The players

Tom Garrett

Republican delegate representing the 56th District, which includes Buckingham and parts of Fluvanna and Louisa Counties.

Tim Griffin

Republican delegate representing the 53rd District.

Amy Laufer

Democratic delegate who plans to virtually participate in the forum.

Phil Riese

Chairman of the Albemarle Republican Committee, who is hosting the event.

Marshall Pattie

The moderator of the forum discussion on the redistricting vote.

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What they’re saying

“This is intentionally drawing lines in order to silence minority voices. So, if we tell the truth, I don't know how that wins. I have confidence that people from both sides of the aisle will see this for what it is. We have literally suspended the Constitution temporarily. I've never heard of that being done before. With a promise that we'll get back around to the Constitution later, right?”

— Tom Garrett, Republican Delegate (Cville Right Now)

“Given that the Virginia legislative session is ongoing, I am currently working in Richmond and unable to attend events that are in-person during the work week. I always welcome the opportunity to speak with constituents about the upcoming referendum and the pressing issues facing Virginians. Early voting begins Friday, March 6th and I encourage everyone to participate.”

— Amy Laufer, Democratic Delegate (Cville Right Now)

“It would dramatically increase how much power and influence Northern Virginia has on Virginia politics. So, this new map that the Democrats have unveiled, a person could drive from Alexandria, Virginia to Dulles Airport, a 30-minute drive, and they would cross five different congressional districts.”

— Phil Riese, Chairman, Albemarle Republican Committee (Cville Right Now)

What’s next

The Virginia Supreme Court is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the redistricting amendment after the April 21 referendum results are in.

The takeaway

The partisan battle over redistricting in Virginia highlights the broader national debate around gerrymandering and the efforts by both parties to gain political advantage through the redrawing of electoral maps. The outcome of the referendum could have significant implications for the state's congressional representation in the coming years.