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Virginia Localities Seek to Delay Redistricting Amendment Vote
Local governments cite 90-day law in move to halt early voting on proposed constitutional change
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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Local governments across Virginia are moving to delay early voting on a proposed redistricting constitutional amendment, citing a state law that requires amendments to appear on the ballot no sooner than 90 days after final legislative approval. Several counties have passed resolutions opposing the redistricting, while the City of Lynchburg plans to seek a declaratory judgment from the circuit court. The legal authority of local governments to halt early voting remains unclear as the Virginia Supreme Court has not yet ruled on the legality of the amendment process.
Why it matters
The proposed redistricting amendment has been a contentious issue in Virginia, with three separate lawsuits filed challenging the legality of the process. The move by local governments to delay the vote could significantly impact the timeline and outcome of the amendment, which aims to change the way legislative districts are drawn in the state.
The details
Patrick County has passed a resolution to halt early voting until the 90-day period has elapsed. Pittsylvania and Campbell counties have also passed resolutions opposing the redistricting, while the issue is on the agenda for the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors and was discussed by the Lynchburg City Council. The City of Lynchburg decided to submit a declaratory judgment to the circuit court to seek advice on what it can do as a city moving forward.
- The Virginia Supreme Court has not yet ruled on whether the process for the redistricting amendment was legal.
- The Lynchburg City Council discussed the matter on Monday, February 24, 2026.
- The Roanoke County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to address the issue on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.
The players
John Fishwick
Former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, who said the issue may ultimately be decided by the Virginia Supreme Court and that Republicans may be seeking that outcome.
Virginia Democrats
Continuing to push for the vote on the redistricting amendment to proceed.
Virginia Republicans
Supporting local efforts to stop the vote on the redistricting amendment where possible.
What they’re saying
“This is uncharted territory. Can they instruct them in what they can do in their jobs? And then big picture, will that be enforced? Will the Virginia Supreme Court say look we're going to let the voting go forward? The localities can't stop it right now. This is a good legal issue, but we're just not going to decide it now.”
— John Fishwick, Former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia (wset.com)
What’s next
The Virginia Supreme Court is expected to make a ruling on the pending lawsuits challenging the legality of the redistricting amendment process, which could impact whether local governments have the authority to prevent registrars from starting early voting.
The takeaway
The move by local governments to delay the vote on the redistricting amendment highlights the ongoing legal and political battles surrounding the proposed change to Virginia's legislative district boundaries. The outcome could have significant implications for the state's political landscape and the balance of power in the commonwealth.
