Dear Editor,
A redistricting bill is being rushed through the Virginia legislature, reportedly backed by outside funding that lacks transparency from a group calling itself “Virginians for Fair Elections.” Despite its appealing name, the proposal is anything but fair.
Supporters claim the bill would “level the playing field.” That is simply not true. In reality, it would tilt the field by giving politicians greater ability to influence — and ultimately control — the drawing of their own district lines. Allowing elected officials to shape the very districts in which they run invites partisan advantage and undermines public trust in our elections.
Virginia already has one of the strongest redistricting processes in the nation, enshrined recently in our state constitution through a voter-approved amendment. It was specifically designed to curb partisan gerrymandering and ensure a more transparent, balanced approach to drawing district lines. This new proposal appears aimed at weakening those hard-won protections for political gain.
Proponents argue the bill would be “temporary.” History shows that temporary political changes often become permanent fixtures. Virginians should approach such assurances with caution.
Other proponents point to actions taken in another state as justification for Virginia to follow suit. But copying a flawed approach elsewhere does not make it right here. As the saying goes, two wrongs do not make a right.
Partisan gerrymandering — regardless of which party benefits — is wrong. Legislation that opens the door to greater partisan manipulation is not reform; it is regression. Virginians deserve fair elections in fact, not just in name. I urge lawmakers to reject this bill and preserve the integrity of our redistricting process.
Robert B. Crawford
Blacksburg
