A recent poll indicates narrow support for a mid-decade redistricting amendment in Virginia, with likely voters backing it 52-47%. The measure aims to redraw congressional maps from a 6-5 Democratic edge to 10-1 in their favor, potentially affecting House control during President Donald Trump's term. Early voting ends April 18, with the ballot decision on April 21.
Supporters of the amendment have raised $38 million as of March 27, according to WJLA, while opponents through Virginians for Fair Maps have collected about $5 million, per 29News on March 18. The Washington Post/George Mason University Schar School poll found 53% of registered voters in favor compared to 44% opposed, narrowing among likely voters to 52-47% support. The ballot question describes the change as a way to “restore fairness in the upcoming elections,” effective until after the 2030 census redistricting. Republicans currently hold a slim 218-seat House majority that the new maps could influence. The proposal follows similar efforts in other states, mirroring California's November ballot measure that added five Democratic-leaning seats and responding to Texas's addition of five Republican-favored districts. Virginia Democrats' website attributes the push to claims that “Trump and MAGA are trying to rig the midterms.” Former Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, a Republican, highlighted opposition momentum in an interview with The Daily Wire, stating, “It’s not like all this California money cares about Virginians or cares about voices of rural Virginians in Congress.” Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) told NBC News on March 21 that the outcome is “not a done deal by any means,” adding, “We have to effectively make the case that even though this seems unfair in Virginia, it’s totally fair for America... to stop Donald Trump.” The measure has support from former President Barack Obama and Gov. Abigail Spanberger, amid recent Democratic gains in statewide offices. Republican activist Scott Presler posted on X last week, “THE VOTE WILL BE CLOSE!” urging a “NO” vote.
