Four Democrats representing Virginia Beach in the General Assembly plan to reintroduce legislation supporting the city’s district-based election system, despite opposition from the City Council. The lawmakers hope to solidify the current system of 10 districts and a mayor elected at large. They believe this system, implemented after a previous at-large system was ruled unconstitutional, better represents the city’s diverse population.
The proposed legislation faces challenges, including opposition from Republican lawmakers and a past veto from Governor Glenn Youngkin. Youngkin vetoed a similar bill last year, citing pending litigation regarding the election system. The legislators, however, argue that the governor’s veto was influenced by special interests, particularly developer Bruce Thompson, a major donor to Youngkin’s campaign.
Thompson has advocated for an at-large representation system, sparking debate within the City Council. The current district-based system was put in place following a lawsuit that deemed the at-large system illegal and discriminatory. The lawmakers believe the district-based system promotes diversity and better reflects the city’s demographics.
Despite potential obstacles, the Democratic lawmakers are determined to move forward with the legislation, citing support from their constituents. They plan to bring the issue to the forefront in the upcoming legislative session and push for approval of the charter change. Opposition from Republican lawmakers and concerns about ongoing litigation may complicate the process, but the lawmakers are committed to advocating for what they believe is the right direction for Virginia Beach’s election system.
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