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Both parties argue they’re on the side of ‘fairness’ in Virginia redistricting vote

Virginians are voting on an amendment that would clear a path for Democrats to move ahead with a gerrymandered map, created in response to the GOP’s nationwide redistricting efforts.

Both parties have been trying to make the case to Virginians that they’re on the side of “fairness” ahead of the April 21 special election

Major players in the Democratic Party have thrown their support behind plans to redraw Virginia’s congressional lines to favor Democrats in this year’s midterm elections. Former President Barack Obama has asked voters to support the referendum and Gov. Abigail Spanberger has encouraged Virginians to vote yes.

Supporters say the redrawn map maintains balance in the U.S. House, as some Republican-led states have shifted boundaries to favor GOP representatives. Should Virginia move forward with the redrawn map, it could shift enough seats for Democrats to overturn the GOP’s majority.

Former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin is among the Republicans who have said the initiative goes against Virginians’ support for bipartisan maps in a 2020 election and the proposed amendment’s language is misleading.

Youngkin talked with WTOP’s Nick Iannelli about why he’s against the redrawn map, which would require approval from voters and the state Supreme Court to be implemented.

Read and listen to the interview below.

The following transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.

LIVE RESULTS: Virginia’s redistricting referendum

Follow WTOP's team coverage of the 2026 Virginia redistricting referendum online, on air at 103.5 FM or on the WTOP News app. Voters have voted 'yes' on proposed amendment to Virginia's constitution that clears a path for a Democratic-led redistricting effort, aimed at gaining the party seats in the U.S. House amid a nationwide gerrymandering showdown.
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