Virginia Governor Signs Bill for New Congressional Maps

The proposed redistricting plan could give Democrats more seats in Congress.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 1:10am

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Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed a bill that would set up a statewide referendum on redrawing the state's congressional districts. The new maps, if approved by voters, would create 10 heavily Democratic-leaning districts and one solid Republican district, a move that could give Democrats a handful of additional seats in Congress.

Why it matters

Redistricting is a highly partisan process that can significantly impact the balance of power in Congress. Democrats are pushing for new maps in several states to counter efforts by Republicans in other states. The outcome of Virginia's referendum could have national implications.

The details

The bill Spanberger signed sets aside $5 million for the statewide referendum on redistricting, which is scheduled for April 21. Early voting could begin as soon as March 6. However, a judge in Tazewell County has issued an injunction to put the process on hold, and the state's attorney general has filed motions to appeal the ruling and keep the referendum on track.

  • The statewide referendum on redistricting is scheduled for April 21, 2026.
  • Early voting for the referendum could begin as soon as March 6, 2026.

The players

Abigail Spanberger

The governor of Virginia who signed the bill setting up the redistricting referendum.

Jay Jones

The Virginia Attorney General who has filed motions to appeal the court injunction and keep the referendum on track.

Gregory Schneider

A reporter for The Washington Post who covers Virginia from the Richmond bureau and provided analysis on the redistricting process.

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What they’re saying

“There is a pretty long process still to go, but the maps that are in the bill that she signed last night would create 10 heavily Democratic-leaning districts and one solid Republican district in the state.”

— Gregory Schneider, Reporter, The Washington Post

“The timing is just crucial. If there are any delays, it could throw the whole process off.”

— Gregory Schneider, Reporter, The Washington Post

What’s next

The state Supreme Court will consider the attorney general's motions to appeal the Tazewell County court injunction and keep the redistricting referendum on track for the scheduled April 21 vote.

The takeaway

The proposed redistricting plan in Virginia is a high-stakes partisan battle that could have significant national implications. The outcome of the statewide referendum will determine whether Democrats are able to gain additional congressional seats in a key swing state.