Judge Temporarily Blocks Referendum to Redraw Virginia's Congressional Map

The National Republican Congressional Committee called the injunction 'a massive win' for Virginians.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A county judge in Virginia issued an emergency restraining order on Feb. 19, temporarily blocking a referendum backed by Democrats to redraw the state's congressional maps. The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) had argued the referendum was unconstitutional, and the judge granted their motion, barring local officials from administering or moving forward with the referendum.

Why it matters

The redistricting plan was projected to give Democrats four more U.S. House seats in Virginia, so the judge's order halts this effort by Democrats to potentially gain an advantage in the state's congressional representation.

The details

The NRCC filed a motion on Feb. 18 arguing the referendum was unconstitutional, and Tazewell County Circuit Judge Jack Hurley granted an emergency restraining order the next day, temporarily blocking the referendum. The injunction will remain in effect until March 18.

  • On Feb. 19, 2026, a county judge in Virginia issued an emergency restraining order temporarily blocking the referendum.
  • The injunction will remain in effect until March 18, 2026.

The players

National Republican Congressional Committee

The National Republican Congressional Committee is the campaign arm of House Republicans, dedicated to electing Republicans to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Jack Hurley

Tazewell County Circuit Judge who granted the emergency restraining order blocking the referendum.

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What they’re saying

“For a second time, the Virginia courts have ruled against Virginia Democrats' partisan attempt to ignore their own Constitution and rig the system in their favor.”

— Mike Marinella, NRCC spokesperson (The Epoch Times)

What’s next

The injunction will remain in effect until March 18, 2026, when the judge will decide whether to continue blocking the referendum.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing partisan battles over redistricting and the role of the courts in overseeing the process, as both parties seek to gain electoral advantages through the redrawing of congressional maps.