Graham Suggests South Carolina Redistrict to Counter Virginia Efforts

Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, stated on April 22, 2026, that the state should pursue redistricting to increase Republican representation in the House of Representatives. He described this as a way to "fight fire with fire" against similar efforts by Democrats in Virginia.

Graham's statement followed Virginia voters' approval on April 21, 2026, of a constitutional amendment allowing the state to redraw congressional districts. According to reports, this could enable Democrats to flip four seats and control 10 out of 11 House seats in Virginia.

22, 2026, a federal judge ruled that the Virginia referendum was unconstitutional. This decision hindered Democrats' redistricting plans in the state. Graham encouraged South Carolina's next Republican governor and the Republican-controlled legislature to evaluate a response.

The state is described as heavily Republican-leaning. The partisan redistricting competition began in 2025 when Texas Republicans conducted a mid-decade redistricting to gain five additional seats. States including California, Florida, and Missouri have attempted similar actions.

Prior to the Virginia ruling, Democrats were projected to gain six seats nationally through redistricting, while Republicans were on track for nine. Critics have raised concerns about gerrymandering, leading to court challenges.