For an opposing point view, see a counterpoint from a Republican in Suffolk. For more information on the special election, see our Voter Guide.
In Southwest Virginia and across the commonwealth, we know how important it is that our voices are heard.
Whether we’re talking about economic development, access to healthcare, infrastructure or the future of our communities, the decisions made in Washington have real consequences for families here at home. That’s why our democracy works best when voters choose their representatives — not when the president of the United States urges his allies to manipulate the rules in other states before Virginia voters ever get a say.
Right now, we are seeing exactly that kind of manipulation happening across the country.
President Donald Trump and MAGA Republican leaders have openly urged states like Texas, North Carolina and soon Florida to change the rules ahead of the 2026 midterms in order to lock in more Republican seats before voters even cast their ballots. It’s an effort to tilt the playing field in Washington before the election ever begins and to give Virginia voters less of a say in what happens next.
The commonwealth now has the opportunity to take a different path.
This April, voters will decide whether to approve a redistricting referendum that would ensure the next congressional elections reflect the will of Virginia voters — not the outcome of political maneuvering in the White House.
For communities like Roanoke and across Southwest Virginia, this moment is about protecting our voice.
Too often, rural and smaller communities worry that decisions about political representation will be made far away from the people most affected by them. When MAGA politicians in Washington try to manipulate the rules of our elections, it threatens the ability of communities like ours to have fair representation in Congress.
That’s why this referendum matters. It’s about making sure Virginia voters remain in control of who represents them in Congress and that we can have some semblance of accountability in Washington.
Early voting is already underway, and Election Day is April 21. Between now and then, Virginians will have the chance to make an important decision about the future of our democracy.
From Roanoke to Lee County, from the New River Valley to the Shenandoah Valley, the principle should remain the same: elections should be decided by voters.
I believe Virginians deserve a fair system where every community’s voice matters. By voting YES on this referendum, we can help ensure that Virginia’s voice remains on a level playing field — and that Virginia voters, not the president or his supporters in Washington, decide who represents us.
Roberta Oliver is the Virginia Democratic Party Rural Caucus chair.
