In an aerial view, the Virginia State Capitol is shown on July 12, 2023 in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
The Virginia House of Delegates moved one step closer Wednesday to redrawing the state’s congressional map in an effort to counter GOP-controlled states that have gerrymandered this year at President Donald Trump’s request.
The House approved a measure in a 51-42 vote proposing a constitutional amendment that would allow the state to redraw the map. The proposed amendment would allow Virginia to make changes to its map until 2030 “in response to actions taken by another state.”
The measure was introduced by Delegate Rodney T. Willett (D), who told House members Wednesday that Virginia’s “hand has been forced” by “unprecedented events in this country.”
“We have to protect Virginia,” Willett said.
Virginia’s congressional delegation is currently made up of six Democrats and five Republicans.
Unlike in the Republican-led states that have rushed new maps into law, Virginia lawmakers must amend the state constitution and seek voter approval for the redraw.
Virginia could become the second Democratic-controlled state, after California, to ask its voters to approve a new map in response to GOP gerrymanders that have already passed in Texas, Missouri and North Carolina.
The Virginia House committee on Privileges and Elections advanced the measure earlier Wednesday in a 12-9 vote on party lines.
Virginia Republicans have fought back against the Democratic plan, filing a lawsuit Tuesday aimed at stopping redistricting. A judge declined Wednesday to block redistricting, but scheduled a follow-up hearing on a preliminary injunction Nov. 5.