Tracking the Early Vote in Virginia’s Redistricting Referendum
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Virginia
U.S. state
Virginia, officially the Commonwealth of Virginia, is a state in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States between the Atlantic Coast and the Appalachian Mountains. It borders Kentucky to the west, Tennessee to the south-west, North Carolina to the south, West Virginia to the no...
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Deep Analysis
Why It Matters
This referendum matters because it will determine whether Virginia adopts a bipartisan redistricting commission, potentially reducing partisan gerrymandering that has historically skewed political representation. It affects all Virginia voters by shaping how electoral districts are drawn for the next decade, influencing which communities are grouped together and whose voices are amplified in Congress and state legislature. The outcome could serve as a national model for other states grappling with similar redistricting reform debates.
Context & Background
- Virginia's current redistricting process is controlled by the state legislature, which has led to repeated accusations of partisan gerrymandering from both major parties
- In 2019, the Virginia Supreme Court ruled that 11 state House districts were racially gerrymandered, forcing redrawing of those districts
- The proposed constitutional amendment would create a 16-member commission (8 legislators and 8 citizens) to draw districts, with final approval still requiring legislative vote
- Early voting in Virginia expanded significantly in 2020 due to pandemic-related changes that were made permanent by state legislation
What Happens Next
If the referendum passes, the commission will begin work in 2021 to draw new districts using 2020 Census data, with those maps taking effect for the 2022 elections. If it fails, the current legislative-controlled process will continue for the 2021 redistricting cycle. Results will be certified by the Virginia State Board of Elections in November, with legal challenges possible from either side depending on the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Voters are deciding whether to amend Virginia's constitution to create a bipartisan redistricting commission composed of legislators and citizens. The commission would draw congressional and state legislative districts, though the General Assembly would still have final approval over the maps.
Virginia now allows 45 days of no-excuse early voting before elections, either in-person or by mail. This represents a significant expansion from previous rules that required voters to provide an excuse for absentee voting.
If the commission cannot agree on maps, the Virginia Supreme Court would appoint special masters to draw the districts. This creates a backup mechanism to prevent complete gridlock in the redistricting process.
Support comes from good government groups, some bipartisan legislators, and organizations advocating for fair maps. Opposition comes from some progressive groups who argue the commission doesn't go far enough and from some legislators who prefer maintaining legislative control.
Proponents argue the commission will create more competitive districts that better represent communities of interest. Opponents worry it could dilute minority voting power if the commission fails to properly consider Voting Rights Act requirements.