Virginia Polling Reveals Divided Opinions on Redistricting and Gun Control

Recent polling conducted by Roanoke College between February 9 and February 16, 2026, surveyed 800 Virginia residents regarding their opinions on mid-decade redistricting and gun control measures. The poll has a margin of error of ±4.43 percentage points. The results indicate a significant division among voters on both issues, reflecting the complexities of Virginia's political landscape.

The poll revealed that 52% of respondents oppose the proposed mid-decade redistricting amendment, while 44% support it. This indicates an 8-point margin against the change. The upcoming special election on April 21 will present voters with a ballot measure that aims to amend the Constitution of Virginia to allow the General Assembly to adopt new congressional districts. The language of the poll question differed from the actual referendum, which could influence voter perceptions. Dr. Harry Wilson, interim director for the Institute for Policy and Opinion Research (IPOR), noted that the phrasing of the question could lead to discrepancies between polling results and actual voting outcomes.

New polling on Spanberger, redistricting and guns

Governor Abigail Spanberger, who took office in January 2026, has a job approval rating of 53%, with 39% disapproving of her performance. These figures are closely aligned with those of former Governor Glenn Youngkin, who had a 54% approval rating at the end of his term. Spanberger's favorable rating stands at 51%, reflecting a slight decline from her initial post-election approval.

New polling on Spanberger, redistricting and guns

The poll also explored attitudes toward gun control in Virginia. Respondents were nearly evenly split on the importance of gun rights versus gun control, with 49% prioritizing the right to own guns and 48% favoring gun control measures. A majority of participants supported specific gun control initiatives, such as licensing gun owners (71%) and registering firearms (67%). However, there was significant opposition to an outright ban on all firearms, with 80% of respondents against such a measure.

When asked about the causes of mass shootings, 52% attributed the issue to inadequate mental health policies, while 30% cited weak gun laws and 29% pointed to poor enforcement of existing laws. This highlights a complex interplay of factors that Virginians believe contribute to gun violence.

Critics of the proposed redistricting amendment argue that the language used in the polling and the referendum may skew public perception and influence the outcome. Dr. Wilson emphasized that the Democratic framing of the question as a means to "restore fairness" could mislead voters regarding the implications of the amendment.

New polling on Spanberger, redistricting and guns

The Roanoke College poll underscores the divided opinions among Virginians on critical issues such as redistricting and gun control. As the state approaches the special election, these polling results may play a significant role in shaping the political discourse and voter turnout in the upcoming months.