Virginia Court Strikes Down Redistricting Map

The Virginia Supreme Court on Friday struck down a congressional map backed by Democrats and approved by voters, a decision that could significantly reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the midterm elections.

In a 4-3 ruling, the court found Democratic lawmakers violated the Virginia Constitution during the process used to place the redistricting amendment before voters. The justices said the General Assembly’s initial vote occurred before last fall’s legislative elections, meaning some early voters cast ballots without knowing lawmakers’ positions on the proposal.

“This constitutional violation incurably taints the resulting referendum vote and nullifies its legal efficacy,” the court wrote.

The ruling eliminates four newly drawn Democratic-leaning congressional districts and is expected to benefit Republicans as national redistricting battles continue.

President Donald Trump praised the decision on social media, calling it a “Huge win for the Republican Party, and America, in Virginia.”

Democrats sharply criticized the ruling. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the decision “an unprecedented and undemocratic action,” adding that Democrats are exploring legal options to challenge it.

Democrats had spent months and nearly $70 million supporting the referendum, which aimed to give the party control of 10 of Virginia’s 11 U.S. House seats.

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