Virginia Democrats have rejected a GOP-backed resolution to condemn political violence during a special redistricting session, voting 21-17 along party lines. The session, which convened to push a redistricting amendment for reshaping state maps ahead of the 2026 general election, saw lawmakers attempt to address the issue of political violence, albeit without success. Del. Delores Oates, R-Front Royal, initially introduced a women’s group called ‘Moms Say No To Violence Against Children,’ but her remarks were abruptly cut off by House Speaker Don Scott, D-Portsmouth, who deemed her comments ‘out of order.’
Oates had referenced text messages by Jay Jones, the Democrats’ candidate for attorney general, which included violent rhetoric about a former Republican leader. Scott, a staunch defender of Jones, slammed his gavel and threatened formal punishment for Oates’ continued speech. This incident highlighted the escalating tensions within the state legislature, as the GOP sought to insert an amendment condemning politicians who wish harm on children and families of elected officials. However, the proposal was swiftly rejected by Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, who labeled it non-urgent and recommended against its inclusion in the special session.
The Senate GOP caucus expressed outrage over Surovell’s dismissal of the issue, noting that the rejection of the amendment sent a clear message about the state’s priorities. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, a Republican candidate for governor, condemned the situation, calling it ‘disgraceful.’ Other lawmakers, such as Del. Kim Taylor, R-Petersburg—targeted by a death threat—expressed frustration over the Democratic refusal to condemn political violence, arguing that such rhetoric has no place in public discourse.
The rejection of the amendment, which aimed to add language to the state Constitution condemning political violence, was seen as a political maneuver to avoid addressing the issue directly. Del. David Owen, R-Short Pump, emphasized the importance of election participation, suggesting that the failure to condemn such rhetoric could influence voter behavior. As the political climate continues to shift, the implications of this decision remain significant, with potential effects on public trust and the integrity of the democratic process.