April 10, 2026 Editor, The News-Gazette: Everyone I know who is voting yes on the redistricting measure wishes we didn’t have to. We believe gerrymandering is a travesty that harms democracy. Some of us worked hard for the creation of Virginia’s bi-partisan commission that resulted in fairer districts. But, as furious as we are to be put in the position of having to support this referendum, we will do so.
As unfair as it may seem to Republicans in our state, the U.S House of Representatives does not pass laws for Virginia alone. It is the legislative body for our entire country. When, at the direction of a failing president who knows he can’t keep the House on his side without manipulating the elections, Republican-led legislatures in other states gerrymander (without referendums) to eliminate 10 or more Democratic seats, what choice are we left with?
The only way to level the playing field and restore fairness on a national level is to ask voters to approve more districts that favor Democrats. We are relieved that the wording of the referendum makes it clear that this is a temporary measure and Virginia will revert to redistricting with the bi-partisan commission after the 2030 census.
We truly wish we didn’t have to do this, but the alternative is allowing Trump to steal the November mid-term elections. We have seen how much harm this president can cause without a congress willing to rein him in. We love our country too much to allow this to continue. As hard as it may be, please join us in voting yes. ANNETTE GREEN Rockbridge County
