Virginia General Assembly passes redistricting constitutional amendment for second time

The Virginia General Assembly passes a constitutional amendment on January 16, 2026, allowing the Democratic-controlled legislature to temporarily redraw the state's congressional districts — the second required passage after initial approval in October 2025. Under Virginia's constitution, amendments must pass the legislature twice in separate sessions and then be approved by voters. The Democratic strategy is designed to counter Republican mid-decade redistricting in Texas, Missouri, and other red states. Republican opponents file the first of multiple lawsuits the same week, arguing the amendment process violated timing requirements. Early voting for an April 21 special election on the amendment begins in March.