Virginia Governor Spanberger Backs Redistricting Amendment Amid Partisan Debate

Critics argue the proposed amendment could eliminate most Republican representation in the state.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has officially endorsed a Democratic-led redistricting amendment that is set to go before the state's voters on April 21. The amendment is aimed at 'restoring fairness' in Virginia's congressional representation, but critics argue it would likely redraw districts in a way that removes every Republican lawmaker except Rep. Morgan Griffith. Spanberger's support for the amendment marks a shift from her previous stance against gerrymandering.

Why it matters

The proposed redistricting amendment has sparked a partisan debate in Virginia, with Republicans arguing it is a 'power grab' by Democrats. The outcome of the vote could have significant implications for the state's political landscape and representation in Congress.

The details

The redistricting amendment was spearheaded by Senate President L. Louise Lucas and House Speaker Don Scott Jr. and is written to 'restore fairness' in Virginia's congressional representation. Critics, however, claim the amendment is designed to redraw districts in a way that would likely remove every Republican lawmaker except Rep. Morgan Griffith. Spanberger, who previously supported the formation of a bipartisan redistricting commission, now says the amendment is a 'temporary' and 'direct response' to actions in other states and comments made by former President Donald Trump.

  • The redistricting amendment is set to go before Virginia voters on April 21, 2026.
  • Spanberger endorsed the amendment in a video address on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Abigail Spanberger

The current Governor of Virginia, who has officially endorsed the Democratic-led redistricting amendment.

L. Louise Lucas

The Senate President of Virginia, who spearheaded the effort to put the redistricting amendment on the ballot.

Don Scott Jr.

The House Speaker of Virginia, who also spearheaded the effort to put the redistricting amendment on the ballot.

Morgan Griffith

The only Republican lawmaker who critics say would likely remain in office if the proposed redistricting amendment is approved.

Jack Hurley Jr.

A judge in Tazewell County who declared the amendment process 'void ab initio' over a conflict in statutory early voting timelines and alleged abuse of the state's special session provision.

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What they’re saying

“I supported the formation of VA's bipartisan redistricting commission in 2020 and that support has not changed.”

— Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Virginia (1010wcsi.com)

“This ballot language is so heavy-handed and misleading that it's essentially fraud on the people of Virginia.”

— Wren Williams, Republican Delegate (1010wcsi.com)

“If it fails on the notice requirement, so do their other three amendments.”

— Republican source (1010wcsi.com)

What’s next

A higher court has stayed one of Judge Hurley's orders, allowing the referendum to move forward on April 21 while the merits of the case are decided. A ruling on the case could come just days after the votes are cast.

The takeaway

The debate over the proposed redistricting amendment in Virginia highlights the ongoing partisan battles over gerrymandering and the redrawing of congressional districts. The outcome of the vote could have significant implications for the state's political landscape and representation in Congress.