Cline Launches Statewide Campaign to Oppose Redistricting Referendum

As early voting begins in Virginia’s redistricting referendum, U.S. Rep. Ben Cline has launched a statewide campaign urging voters to reject the proposed constitutional amendment before the April 21 vote.

Cline announced the creation of “Stop the Gerrymander,” a grassroots organization formed to oppose the referendum and mobilize voters across Virginia. The group will operate as a 501(c)(4) organization, with initial funding from Cline’s campaign.

“This is an issue that affects my own district, of course, but it’s also unfair to all Virginians, which is why this must be a statewide effort,” Cline said.

The campaign will focus on building a volunteer network to knock on doors, make phone calls, and educate voters ahead of the statewide vote.

Cline also announced that political strategist John Pudner will help lead the effort.

“We are thrilled to add a professional like John Pudner to this team, because his ability to educate and organize voters is established and well known,” Cline said. “With his help, we will defeat this referendum.”

Unless the courts direct otherwise, early voting for the referendum begins March 6.

Voters will be asked to approve a plan backed by Virginia Democrats to redraw the state’s congressional map. Cline said the proposal would reshape the current map and alter representation across the state.

“This illegal, partisan power grab must be stopped, and we the people are the ones who will have to stop it,” Cline said.

Cline also criticized the proposal and its potential impact on voters.

“And I am confident that our fair-minded citizens will reject this unconstitutional redrawing of district lines to benefit one political party over the other,” he said.

Cline also accused Democrats of misleading voters about the proposal.

“Just as they lied about keeping the cost of living low but now are rushing to raise taxes and electricity rates in Richmond, Virginia, Democrats are lying about what this plan will do,” Cline said.

Cline also criticized Gov. Abigail Spanberger, saying she had previously pledged not to redraw congressional districts.

“Abigail Spanberger specially promised not to gerrymander Virginia, but now she’s behind this plan to disenfranchise nearly half of the law-abiding people in her state,” Cline said.

Cline said the campaign’s goal is to inform voters ahead of the April referendum.

“Our mission must be to give everyone the information they need to do just that,” he said.