For an opposing point of view, see “It’s in the maps!” by Rep. Morgan Griffith. For more information on the April 21 special election, see our Voter Guide. Got a question about redistricting? Let us know and we’ll try to get it answered.
Donald Trump is attempting to rig the 2026 midterm. He is trying to tip the scales because he is terrified that the American people are poised to turn out in droves to reject his catastrophic administration and his allies in Congress. We Virginians have an historic opportunity to push back between now and April 21. By voting for a constitutional amendment that would temporarily allow new congressional maps, Virginians can help restore fairness in the upcoming November elections.
I have already voted yes, and I strongly encourage my fellow Virginians to do the same.
For years, I have been outspoken about my opposition to gerrymandering. It is a corrosive force that suppresses meaningful electoral competition, undermines public trust and leaves too many voters feeling like their voices do not matter. That is why I have introduced federal legislation to ban gerrymandering nationwide and move us toward a fairer system that better reflects the will of the people.
However, the threat facing Virginia today is not theoretical — and it requires a response.
Across the country, we are witnessing a troubling escalation in efforts to manipulate our electoral system for partisan gain. President Donald Trump and his MAGA allies have openly pressured state legislatures in Texas, North Carolina, Florida and elsewhere to redraw their congressional maps midcycle to favor Republicans ahead of the November elections — efforts that have been carried out without a public vote. This level of coordinated political interference is unprecedented in modern American elections, and a failure to respond would only guarantee its success.
Virginia should not stand by and rubber stamp this betrayal of our democracy.
We have a chance to lead, with a measured, temporary response to this unique threat.
The ballot question before voters offers a practical step to protect the integrity of our elections at a moment when they are clearly under threat. It is not a permanent overhaul of our election system, but a temporary safeguard designed to meet this specific moment.
Importantly, while Trump is trying to take power away from the American people, this amendment places the decision directly in the hands of Virginia voters — where it belongs.
Some have raised understandable concerns about changing the redistricting process, even temporarily. Those concerns deserve to be taken seriously. But this proposal does not dismantle the bipartisan redistricting framework Virginia has worked hard to build. That framework, which was the result of hard-fought compromise, will return following the next census in 2030.
In that sense, this amendment serves as a bridge. A bridge to protect Virginians’ voices in the near term, ensuring they are not diminished by partisan gerrymandering efforts elsewhere. It does so while preserving the long-term redistricting reforms that Virginians have already embraced.
Because at its core, this referendum is about leveling the playing field.
On April 21st, Virginia has the opportunity to come together in defense of our democracy and a brighter future for the Commonwealth and the country.
And when the time comes to cast your ballot, I hope you will join me in voting yes — because fair elections are, and always must be, the foundation of our democracy.
Don Beyer represents Virginia’s 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He is a Democrat.
