Virginia's Democratic-controlled House of Delegates approved a constitutional amendment on Wednesday that would allow state legislators to redraw congressional district maps next year. The move is intended to counter redistricting practices in other states, though it doesn't directly mention former President Trump.

The amendment, passed by the House, paves the way for a potential voter referendum on the change in November 2024. If voters approve, the General Assembly would then have the opportunity to redraw the state’s congressional districts following the 2020 census. Currently, the maps are drawn by the Republican-controlled legislature.

Supporters of the amendment argue that it would ensure fairer representation and prevent partisan gerrymandering, where district lines are drawn to favor one political party over another. The effort reflects a broader concern among Democrats about the impact of redistricting on the balance of power in Congress, particularly in states where Republicans have been accused of manipulating district boundaries to disadvantage Democratic candidates.

The amendment now moves to the state Senate for consideration. If approved by both chambers of the General Assembly, it will appear on the ballot for voters to decide. The process underscores the ongoing debate over redistricting and its effects on political representation across the nation. Virginia's action is part of a growing trend of states examining their redistricting processes in response to concerns about fairness and partisan influence.