Spanberger faces ‘bait-and-switch’ backlash in final hours before redistricting referendum

Virginia Democrats' redistricting referendum faces backlash as opponents accuse Gov. Abigail Spanberger of a 'bait-and-switch,' citing her prior pledge against redrawing the congressional map. Critics, including former governors George Allen and Glenn Youngkin, argue the plan would shift political power to Northern Virginia Democrats while diluting rural and agricultural districts, with Rep. Ben Cline claiming his district would be split into five 'spaghetti strands.' The Vote YES campaign denies accusations, stating the effort aims to 'level the playing field.'