A.C. Cordoza, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, has expressed concerns over efforts by Democrats to dismantle the state’s non-partisan redistricting commission. Cordoza made his remarks on Facebook, suggesting that the move is an attempt to gain political advantage.
“Election Alert: The Virginia Democrat establishment is showing their true colors, it’s not about fair district lines, it’s only about power,” said Cordoza, House Representative, according to Facebook. “65% of VA voters supported a non-partisan redistricting commission, that’s what we have. The Democrats even have an advantage currently with the maps. How is this blatant attempt of gerrymandering not a threat to our democracy in VA?!?!”
Virginia’s nonpartisan redistricting commission was established through Amendment 1 in 2020. This amendment transferred the responsibility of map-drawing from the legislature to a 16-member bipartisan body composed of lawmakers and citizens. According to Virginia Mercury, the commission faced challenges in 2021, which resulted in the state Supreme Court stepping in to draw maps. Current proposals aim to reform both its structure and appointment process.
A Mason-Dixon poll conducted in 2020, cited by 13News Now, indicated that approximately 70% of Virginians favored transferring redistricting power to an independent commission rather than leaving it with legislators. This reflects a strong bipartisan demand for reform.
Cordoza represents Virginia’s 86th District since 2022 and previously served in the 91st District. His background includes service in the U.S. Air Force and work in cybersecurity after defeating a Democratic incumbent.
