Smith urges ‘No’ vote on redistricting amendment
In 2020, our Commonwealth took a historic step forward by voting to approve a nonpartisan redistricting commission. We decided then that voters should choose their politicians— not the other way around. Now, a new proposal threatens to undo that progress by allowing the General Assembly to redraw our congressional maps mid-decade for partisan advantage.
The proposed map would significantly reshape our representation, potentially shifting Virginia’s delegation from a competitive 6-5 split to a lopsided 10-1. This kind of extreme gerrymandering ignores the diverse political reality of our state and risks silencing the voices of millions of voters.
Redistricting should be based on updated census data every 10 years, not on a desire to “counter” what is happening in other states. We must protect the integrity of our independent process and ensure that fair representation remains a priority over partisan gain.
Early voting has already begun. I encourage everyone to stand up for fair maps and vote “No” on this amendment to keep our current, nonpartisan system in place.
Mary Bess Smith
Submitted on behalf of the Botetourt County Republican Women’s Club
