The Daily Signal NOT TODAY: Virginia Judge Blocks Democrat’s Redistricting Plans | Joe Thomas
Feb 23, 2026
A courthouse showdown over Virginia redistricting and ballots. Discussion of a restraining order that pauses early voting and the legal timing rules at issue. Exploration of heavy ad spending shaping public view of the referendum. Debate about using lawsuits to protect minority rights and whether law is a shield or a weapon.
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Big Ad Buy Framed Amendment As Suspending The Constitution
- Massive ad buys framed the redistricting amendment as a temporary suspension of the Virginia Constitution.
- Thomas cites $5 million in ads during Olympic coverage that portrayed Democrats as wanting to suspend the constitution to fight the Trump administration.
Court Found Ballot Language And Timing Problems
- Legal challenges can pause voting by focusing on procedural language in ballot measures.
- Joe Thomas explains Judge Jack Hurley Jr. found merit in claims that the ballot language and timing violated Virginia law, prompting a restraining order.
When Voting Counts Determines Legal Deadlines
- Defining when an election begins matters for constitutional notice and posting requirements.
- Thomas notes proponents say the election is the counting day, while courts treat any voting activity as the election start for legal timing.