(The Center Square) – Virginia voters say they don’t like gerrymandering, but a new poll shows they’re split on a proposed redistricting amendment as early voting gets underway.
The ballot asks voters whether the state constitution should be amended to allow lawmakers to temporarily redraw congressional districts ahead of the next census, before returning to the standard process after 2030.
The proposal is still facing legal challenges, though the Virginia Supreme Court has allowed voting to proceed while those cases are reviewed.
Early voting began March 6 ahead of the April 21 special election.
Data from the Virginia Public Access Project shows about 499,000 early ballots have been cast so far, with most votes cast in person.
The amendment comes as lawmakers have also released proposed congressional maps that could take effect if the measure is approved.
Polling from Heritage Action, a conservative advocacy group, shows broad opposition to partisan gerrymandering.
In the survey of 814 likely voters, 76% said gerrymandering should not be allowed and 87% said maps should reflect voters’ interests, not politicians. About 74% support bipartisan commissions, while about 1% support elected officials drawing maps.
But views are more mixed on the amendment itself.
About 45% said they would support it based on ballot-style language, compared to 36% who opposed it and 18% who were unsure. Support dropped when voters were given more details, including that maps could not be redrawn again until 2030.
About half said the ballot language is confusing, while 54% said the amendment could unfairly silence some voters.
If approved, the amendment would give lawmakers a temporary chance to redraw districts before the 2026 elections.
For now, the proposal remains tied up in court as early voting continues across the commonwealth.
