VGEA Monitors Elections with an Eye on the Future

Richmond, VA – November 7, 2023 – As citizens across the Commonwealth head to the polls today, the Virginia Governmental Employees Association (VGEA) will closely monitor the outcomes, with a keen interest in the implications of recent redistricting. With all 140 seats of the Virginia General Assembly at stake, this election is set to be a pivotal moment for the Commonwealth.

In 2020, a constitutional amendment approved by 65% of voters in Virginia created a bipartisan commission for redistricting, shifting the responsibility from the General Assembly and the governor. This amendment, aimed at fairer districting, also designated the state Supreme Court as a backup if the commission failed to agree on new maps. Although new districts were due by 2021, pandemic-related delays extended the use of old maps until the 2023 elections. The redistricting process has redrawn lines that could alter the balance of power in the state legislature, making this election especially significant.

Regardless of the results, the VGEA is prepared to take proactive steps following the election. “This is an election like no other, especially considering the redistricting that has changed the political landscape,” said VGEA lobbyist, Dylan Bishop. “We’re ready to see how these changes will impact the makeup of the General Assembly and, consequently, the interests of our members.”

Once the dust settles and the newly elected officials take office, the VGEA plans to initiate a campaign encouraging its members to reach out to their respective legislators. The aim is to introduce the association’s mission and legislative priorities for the upcoming year. “Our legislative agenda is focused on the well-being and interests of government employees,” Bishop added. “We believe that it’s crucial for our members to establish a rapport with their legislators to advocate for our 2024 priorities effectively.”

In parallel with this important election, the VGEA has been capturing the voice of state employees and retirees through a Legislative Priorities Survey. “We initiated this survey to ensure that our legislative priorities for 2024 truly reflect the needs and aspirations of Virginia’s state workforce,” said VGEA Executive Director, Marshall Terry. “The survey is a cornerstone of our commitment to advocate effectively at the governor and General Assembly level.” All of Virginia’s state employees and retirees are encouraged to participate by visiting vgea.org/survey24 before the survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.

With the election’s outcome and the survey results soon to be in our hands, the VGEA stands ready to work with our newly elected officials to continue our mission of advocating for the rights and benefits of our members.

Follow live updates on the elections at https://enr.elections.virginia.gov/results/public/Virginia/elections/2023-Nov-Gen, staying informed as the results come in. This coverage is essential for understanding the immediate future of Virginia’s political and legislative direction.

Learn more about Virginia’s redistricting process at virginiaredistricting.org.

Participate in the VGEA Legislative Priorities Survey at vgea.org/survey24.

Contact the VGEA team with questions, comments, ideas, or concerns.