Wittman: VA Redistricting Maps Violate Constitution

RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia Congressman Rob Wittman is pushing back after a lower court ruling went against his lawsuit challenging the state’s congressional maps.

Appearing on Richmond’s Morning News with Rich Herrera on NewsRadio WRVA, Wittman argued the maps used in the redistricting vote violate the Virginia Constitution’s requirements for compactness and contiguity—two long-standing standards meant to prevent political gerrymandering.

The Legal Fight Over the Maps

Wittman’s lawsuit claims the current maps:

• Stretch district lines in ways that divide communities
• Fail to meet constitutional standards for compact and contiguous districts
• Were drawn in a way that predetermines political outcomes

A lower court rejected those claims, allowing the maps to stand—for now.

But Wittman says the fight isn’t over.

“The Constitution is clear—districts are supposed to be compact and contiguous. These maps don’t meet that standard.”

What “Compact and Contiguous” Means

At the heart of the case are two key constitutional principles:

• Compactness: Districts should be geographically tight—not stretched or oddly shaped for political advantage
• Contiguity: All parts of a district must be physically connected

Critics argue the current maps violate both, raising concerns about fairness and representation.

Why It Matters

This case goes beyond one election cycle.

If courts ultimately uphold the current maps:

• Virginia’s congressional districts could remain in place for years
• Political outcomes may become less competitive and more predictable
• Future redistricting efforts could face fewer constraints on how maps are drawn

If overturned, the state could be forced to redraw district lines, potentially reshaping representation in Washington.

Wittman on WRVA

Wittman told WRVA listeners the issue is about more than politics:

“This is about making sure voters choose their representatives—not the other way around.”

What Happens Next

The case could move through the appeals process, with higher courts ultimately deciding whether Virginia’s current maps meet constitutional standards.

Until then, the maps remain in effect.