May 8, 2026 · court_ruling
Virginia Supreme Court voids redistricting referendum 4-3, keeps 2021 maps
The Supreme Court of Virginia struck down the voter-approved redistricting amendment 4-3 on May 8, 2026, ruling in McDougle v. Scott that Democrats violated the constitutional requirement for an intervening election. Justice Arthur D. Kelsey wrote the majority, joined by Justices Teresa Chafin, Stephen McCullough, and Wesley Russell Jr., holding that early voting constitutes part of a general election. Chief Justice Cleo Powell dissented with Justices Thomas Mann and Junius Fulton III, arguing state law since 1970 defines a general election as a single day.
Jan 16, 2026 · legislative
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.
Oct 31, 2025 · legislation
Virginia Democrats pass redistricting amendment on party-line vote, triggering procedural dispute
The Virginia General Assembly passed a constitutional amendment on October 31, 2025 to allow the legislature to temporarily draw new congressional districts, with House Majority Leader Charniele Herring leading the effort. The Senate voted 21-16 on party lines to approve the amendment, following a contentious House vote of 51-42 on October 29. Republicans immediately challenged the vote as unconstitutional, arguing Democrats had initiated the first vote after early voting for the November 2025 general election had already begun, violating the required intervening-election rule.