Virginia Governor Spanberger Faces Backlash Over Redistricting Stance

Spanberger's mixed approval ratings and political tensions complicate her position on the state's redistricting referendum.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:50pm

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A serene, cinematic painting of a government building or political office, with warm light and deep shadows creating a contemplative, nostalgic mood that reflects the complexities of the governor's position.The governor's balancing act between governing and campaigning on the redistricting referendum reflects the political tensions and mixed approval ratings she faces.University of Virginia Today

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger is facing criticism from fellow Democrats over her stance on the state's upcoming redistricting referendum. While Spanberger has expressed support for a 'yes' vote, she has prioritized governing over campaigning on the issue, drawing the ire of some in her party who want a more visible public presence. Spanberger's approval ratings have also dipped, with a recent poll showing her at 47% approval, 46% disapproval, and 7% undecided.

Why it matters

Spanberger's handling of the redistricting issue and her mixed approval ratings could complicate her standing within the Democratic Party as national attention intensifies. The referendum is seen as crucial for the party's efforts to gain more power in the state, and Spanberger's perceived retreat on the issue has angered some Democrats.

The details

Spanberger has argued that she has been clear in her support for the redistricting referendum, but that her priority is on governing in the early months of her administration. However, some Democrats have criticized her for not doing enough publicly to rally support for the measure. The governor's balancing act comes as she faces a tightening margin in her approval ratings, which have drawn national attention.

  • The redistricting referendum in Virginia is scheduled for April 21, 2026.
  • Spanberger's approval ratings were recently measured in a Washington Post-Schar School poll.

The players

Abigail Spanberger

The current Governor of Virginia, a Democrat who is facing criticism from within her party over her stance on the state's redistricting referendum.

Hakeem Jeffries

A Democratic politician who is seen as benefiting from the proposed redistricting efforts in Virginia.

Larry Sabato

The director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics, who described Spanberger's dip in approval ratings as 'stunning'.

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What they’re saying

“'I have made it very clear that I support a yes vote, and I think Virginians should vote 'yes,'' but, she added, 'my priority and my responsibility is on governance.'”

— Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Virginia

“If everybody hated me, why is everybody putting my face on their mailers for the referendum?”

— Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Virginia

“The governor's balancing act comes as she faces mixed political headwinds. The Washington Post-Schar School poll also found her approval rating at 47%, with 46% disapproving and 7% undecided — a tightening margin that has drawn national attention.”

— Larry Sabato, Director, University of Virginia Center for Politics

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Spanberger's handling of the redistricting issue and her mixed approval ratings could complicate her standing within the Democratic Party as national attention intensifies. The referendum is seen as crucial for the party's efforts to gain more power in the state, and Spanberger's perceived retreat on the issue has angered some Democrats.