This April, Virginians will vote on a proposed constitutional amendment, allowing the General Assembly to draw a new congressional district map. Democrats hold a slim majority in the State Senate and a near two thirds majority in the House of Delegates. The special election is set for April 21; however, early voting started on March 6.
Otherwise eligible voters who will turn 18 by the next general election on Nov. 3, can register and vote in this election even if they are still 17.
“This is a great opportunity for high schoolers to start exercising their right to vote,” said AP Government teacher Lisa Gibson.
Senior Arianna Champion agrees.
“It is important to me that change happens, not only is it my civil duty, but it also is a necessary step to ensure that policies are reinforced,” Champion said.
If passed, the amendment will take effect in time for the General Assembly to redraw the congressional districts before congressional primaries in August. The proposed new districts are projected to allow Democrats to control 10 out of Virginia’s 11 congressional districts. In November’s gubernatorial race Gov. Abigail Spanberger 57.6% of the vote. Endorsements have fallen largely along party lines.
“This amendment gives [Virginians] the power to level the playing field in the midterms this fall,” former President Barack Obama said.
Republicans, however, including former Gov. Glenn Youngkin criticized the proposal as an incursion upon Virginians’ rights.
“Virginia is under assault because we have leadership in Richmond that is trying to take away your vote,” Gov. Youngkin said.
The Commonwealth is one of only seven states with an independent redistricting commission. In Virginia, that commission was put in place by a 2020 referendum that carried an overwhelming majority. Supporters posit the amendment as a temporary way to combat partisan gerrymanders in other states. As written the independent commission will go back into place after the 2030 census.
“I supported the formation of Virginia’s bipartisan redistricting commission in 2020,” Gov. Abigail Spanberger said. “That support has not changed.”
Polls indicate a close race. A March poll from The Washington Post recorded a 5% margin in favor of the referendum. Onlookers from across the country will watch the referendum, a possible bellwether ahead of the midterm elections.
“Tuesday’s outcome will have a very large impact over the next few years,” said AP U.S. History teacher Darcy Pohl. “I hope that eligible students will make their voices heard.”
