Ideologies clash before General Assembly special session

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia General Assembly gaveled in for a special session on Monday, Oct. 27 where its slim Democratic majority is poised to consider redrawing Virginia's congressional districts -- not everyone is on board.

As in California, Democrats are working to weaken President Trump's pressure on the Texas Legislature to grow its Republican delegation.

Other than redistricting, which is under scrutiny by Republicans, Virginia Democrats will likely bring up other items. Democrats, under a resolution, said they want to fight back against federal cuts.

Considering it a partisan game, Virginia Republicans call changes to the congressional maps irresponsible and would be going against what the voters want. They made statements outside the Virginia State Capitol on Monday ahead of the special session's start.

Democrats occupy six of Virginia's 11 congressional seats.

"Believe me, this is not respectful," said John Reid, who is the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor.

"Democrats in our General Assembly are calling this special session, not to serve the people, no, but to serve themselves," added Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, who is the Republican nominee for governor and working to earn Virginia's vote in a week.

If any redistricting measures pass now, it would have to pass again in the next General Assembly session then be approved by voters in April 2026 -- in time for next November. Democrats would likely need to win this November and keep control of the General Assembly to make it happen.

"I think this week is sort of a preliminary effort for the Democrats to see if it's even feasible," said Randolph-Macon College Political Science Professor Dr. Rich Meagher.

Democrats are also calling for addressing federal cuts, layoffs and firings. Protestors stood outside the Republican press conference at the capitol and tried to speak over the GOP, saying the opposing side is soft on healthcare.

"Winsome Earle-Sears supports the 'Big, Ugly Bill' that not only is cutting a trillion dollars from our healthcare system, but they're prioritizing tax cuts for billionaires over our healthcare," said a woman identifying herself as "Laura."

The General Assembly recessed around 6 p.m. on Monday, and the Senate and House will meet again on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively.