Virginia Judge Blocks Certification of Redistricting Referendum
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A Virginia judge has halted the certification of a voter-approved redistricting referendum, citing constitutional concerns, with the state's attorney general planning to appeal the decision.
A Virginia judge has issued an injunction preventing the certification of a recently approved redistricting referendum, citing constitutional violations. The referendum, passed by voters on April 21, aimed to redraw the state's congressional districts, potentially shifting the current 6-5 Democratic majority to a 10-1 advantage.
Judge Jack Hurley Jr. of the Tazewell Circuit Court ruled that the process underlying the referendum violated several state laws and that certifying the vote would harm Republican lawmakers. The ruling declared all votes for or against the proposed constitutional amendment in the special election as ineffective and enjoined state officials from certifying the results.
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones announced plans to appeal the decision, stating, "Virginia voters have spoken, and an activist judge should not have veto power over the People's vote."
The Republican National Committee, a plaintiff in the lawsuit, welcomed the ruling. Chairman Joe Gruters described the redistricting efforts as a "blatant power grab" and expressed satisfaction that the court recognized it as such.
This legal development adds complexity to the ongoing redistricting efforts in Virginia, with the state's Supreme Court expected to hear related cases in the near future.