Virginia Supreme Court clears way for voters to counter GOP gerrymanders
Democracy Docket • • nation
Key Points:
- The Virginia Supreme Court ruled that voters can decide on a referendum allowing the state legislature to redraw congressional maps before the 2030 census, enabling preparations for the April 21 vote to proceed immediately.
- This ruling reverses a lower court's attempt to halt the referendum, emphasizing that courts should avoid interfering in the electoral process before voters have their say.
- The amendment aims to counteract Republican-led mid-decade gerrymanders nationwide, with Democrats arguing it is necessary to ensure fair representation.
- The court clarified it was not ruling on the amendment's legality, only that any constitutional issues should be resolved after voters decide.
- The decision follows previous legal challenges and underscores the principle that constitutional amendments are a matter for the people
