Election 2026 Redistricting Virginia

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice seeking Massachusetts' voter rolls. The judge said the federal government failed to provide a proper basis for demanding the information. Thursday's ruling marks at least the fifth time a federal judge has rejected similar attempts by the Justice Department. The judge found the Justice Department didn't follow the requirements set by a 1960 civil rights law that targeted voter discrimination. The Justice Department claims it's seeking the data to ensure election security, but election officials in several states have refused, citing privacy concerns. The Justice Department has appealed dismissals in other states.

Virginia voters are deciding on a mid-decade redistricting plan that could help Democrats gain four more U.S. House seats. The proposed constitutional amendment bypasses the state's bipartisan commission, allowing lawmakers to use new districts approved for this year's midterm elections. This move tests Democrats' ability to counter President Donald Trump's influence. Trump previously urged Texas Republicans to redraw districts in their favor, and other states soon joined in a national redistricting battle. Tuesday's vote in Virginia might not be the final word on the issue because Republicans have filed legal challenges, including one that is before the state Supreme Court.