Virginia Votes on Congressional Map Changes in April 21 Referendum
Virginia voters head to the polls April 21 to decide whether the state legislature should regain power to redraw congressional district maps. The referendum could change how Virginia's seats in Congress are divided between parties.
Virginia holds a rare April election Tuesday as voters decide whether to give the state legislature temporary power to redraw congressional district maps ahead of November elections.
The referendum asks whether lawmakers should replace the current congressional maps. Republicans currently hold a small advantage from the existing district boundaries.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Monday that Democrats would pay to broadcast President Biden's statement opposing the referendum to Virginia voters. "The voters of Virginia have the opportunity to ensure that there is a fair national congressional map," Jeffries told reporters at the Capitol.
Congressional redistricting typically happens every 10 years after the census. The process determines how many people live in each district and can influence which party wins seats.
If the amendment passes, the state legislature would temporarily regain redistricting power that was previously handled through other means. The timing puts any new maps in place before the 2026 congressional elections.
This vote could shift which party controls Virginia's congressional seats, affecting national politics. Your district lines determine which candidates you can vote for and how much your vote counts in Congress.
Results expected Tuesday evening. If passed, the legislature will begin redrawing maps for 2026 congressional races.
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