Virginia Supreme Court strikes down new congressional maps in win for Republicans

The Virginia Supreme Court on May 8 struck down the state’s new congressional maps, invalidating a voter-approved redistricting plan and restoring the prior map for now.

AP reported the court’s ruling as a 4-3 decision. The case had been watched closely because the new lines were seen as a way for Democrats to improve their position in Virginia’s 2026 House races.

The court case had already produced an earlier temporary block. Reuters reported on April 22 that a Virginia court had stopped the map from taking effect while litigation continued, and later coverage said the state’s top court kept that block in place as it considered the dispute.

The ruling is a setback for Democrats and a win for Republicans, who argued the redraw should not stand. The decision also resets campaign planning and candidate strategy in a state where congressional boundaries can affect several closely watched seats.

The full opinion was not immediately available in the reporting reviewed here, and it remains unclear whether Virginia Democrats will seek rehearing or further relief. The practical next step is likely to come from the court’s written explanation and any response from the parties.