Blue Virginia

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Latest story Apr 22, 2026 · on ChamberLight since Apr 2026

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Credibility

Low

15 stories · 95% range 38.9–44.5 · updated Sep 24, 2026

How this is measured

Political lean

Far Left to Left12 of 100

15 stories · 95% range 9–16 · updated Sep 24, 2026

How this is measured

Originality

100%of 17 hosted stories are not confirmed copies of another outlet’s article

1 of those 17 carry an unconfirmed copying flag, which is not evidence either way.

17 stories · updated Sep 24, 2026

How this is measured

Writing quality 63 of 100: the average rating of 15 stories, each rated on its own (separate from credibility). How it is measured

Scores last checked Sep 24, 2026.

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Month	Stories	All outlets
April 2026	17	3,897
May 2026	0	none collected
June 2026	0	none collected
July 2026	0	none collected
August 2026	0	1 (collection gap)
September 2026	0	598

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Party of the officials these stories are mainly about, across all 18 officials named. A story counts once for each official it is mainly about, so the split is over 40 story–official pairs, from 17 stories.

Democrat65% · 26 pairs
Republican30% · 12 pairs
Party not recorded5% · 2 pairs

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+ 8 other officials (8 story–official pairs)

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Good Look: 4 (24%)
Mixed: 7 (41%)
Informational: 0 (0%)
Bad Look: 6 (35%)

Daily Kos

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Local NewsFar Left · 28 stories

Lean 95% range 6–11 · updated Sep 24, 2026

Similar lean · 3 shared topics

Common Dreams

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OpinionLeft · 45 stories

Lean 95% range 15–18 · updated Sep 24, 2026

Similar lean · 3 shared topics

The New Republic

newrepublic.com

OpinionLeft · 29 stories

Lean 95% range 15–18 · updated Sep 24, 2026

Similar lean · 3 shared topics

Alternet.org

alternet.org

OpinionLeft · 37 stories

Lean 95% range 16–21 · updated Sep 24, 2026

Similar lean · 2 shared topics

Salon

salon.com

OpinionFar Left to Left · 10 stories

Lean 95% range 14–24 · updated Sep 24, 2026

Similar lean · 2 shared topics

Joe.My.God.

joemygod.com

BlogLeft to Center-Left · 11 stories

Lean 95% range 18–29 · updated Sep 24, 2026

Similar lean · 2 shared topics

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Political Winners and Losers: Virginia Redistricting Referendum April 2026

Here are a few “winners” and “losers” that I believe are worth highlighting from Tuesday’s redistricting referendum, which the YES campaign won by around 3 points. Note that this list isn’t even close to comprehensive – nor is it intended to be (in part because it could go on for days…and at some point, enough is enough, lol!) – so please add “winners” and “losers” of your own in the comments section. By the way, it’s important to point out that you can be a “winner” even if you’re a right-wing Republican (e.g., McDonnell and Cuccinelli in 2009 were huge “winners,” even though they completely suck!) or whatever, and that you can be a “loser” even if you’re my favorite Democrat in the world, because in this context “winner” and “loser” is all about whether someone “won” or “lost” politically in this election cycle, not whether that makes me happy or not or whether it’s normatively a “good” or “bad” thing, per se. With that…on to the “Winners”/”Mixed”/”Losers” from the redistricting referendum. Winners Sen. Louise Lucas: She was absolutely determined to get a 10D-1R map, campaigned relentlessly for it (even when many others were skeptical or hostile), and in the end, got that 10D-1R map last night. As Sen. Lucas put it, in her own inimitable, badass way, “You all started it, and we f—ing finished it”! Haha, exactly. VA Speaker Don Scott: Whatever his initial thoughts on the wisdom of a 10D-1R map vs. a 9D-2R map, Speaker Scott got on board big time, shepherded the amendment to passage through the House of Delegates, then campaigned hard for the 10D-1R map’s passage. Nice job! VA Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell: Helped guide the amendment through the State Senate, avoiding landmines/traps laid by Republicans, as well as potential obstacles within his own caucus, such as State Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg, who had been one of the main proponents of the original, “bipartisan” (in air quotes, because it was designed to fail, almost inevitably) redistricting amendment back in 2020. Good work. The YES campaign (Kéren Charles Dongo et al): Impressive job in a very short period of time, especially given the fact that this was a pretty “hard sell,” given that Republicans were pretty much guaranteed to be nearly 100% in opposition, Independents pretty much guaranteed to be skeptical at best, and many/most Democrats strong opponents of partisan gerrymandering. So what the YES campaign had to do was thread the needle, revving up the Democratic base to push back against Trump’s assault on our democracy, emphasizing that this was a TEMPORARY measure (we will revert back to the bipartisan redistricting commission after the next Census), etc. And they did just that, with the help of tens of millions of $$ in assistance, but also with their own skill, sweat, etc. Congratulations. Democracy: The bottom line of this entire effort was clear – Democrats didn’t *want* to do this at all, never *would* have done it, but felt (correctly) that they HAD TO do it in order to defend our democracy against Trump’s clear, egregious, dangerous attempts to rig the US House maps in his favor. As for Republicans who refused to admit this fact, they were either being willfully disingenous, operating in bad faith, and/or oblivious, in a cult, etc. Anyway, last night democracy won, autocracy lost, and we can all breathe a tiny bit easier…for the moment, as Trump’s’MAGA’s vicious assault on democracy VERY MUCH continues unabated. Hakeem Jeffries/national Democrats: As one leading Virginia Democrat put it to me this morning, “50M in and was with VA every step of way.” Nice. Also, of course, with fair maps heading into November, and given Trump’s miserable approval ratings, it’s highly likely that with free-and-fair elections, there will be a “blue wave” or even “blue tsunami” this fall, among other things sweeping Hakeem Jeffries into power as the next Speaker of the House, replacing Mike Johnson, the worst Speaker in U.S. history – by far, and it’s not even an arguable proposition, as he’s betrayed his oath, ceded all power of his coequal branch to Trump, etc.! So obviously, a Speaker Jeffries will be a MASSIVE upgrade from that, with the U.S. House returning to its constitutionally prescribed role as a check and balance on this unhinged, out-of-control president. And hopefully, we’ll get just that in November. Also, thanks to Hakeem Jeffries for coming to Virginia and campaigning for the amendment; much appreciated! Former Rep. Tom Perriello: With passage a new U.S. House map for Virginia, former Rep. Tom Perriello (D-VA05) is highly likely to be *future* Rep. Tom Perriello (D-VA06), starting in January 2027. That is, if he can win the Democratic nomination (which seems highly likely), then defeat the odious Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA06) in November. But with these new maps (see below), and given a likely “blue wave” political environment this fall, it’s highly likely that Perriello will make his return to the US House in a bit over eight months. Former Rep. Elaine Luria: Similar to Tom Perriello, former Rep. Elaine Luria (D-VA02) is now highly likely to be back in the U.S. House starting in January 2027, given that VA02 will now be a Harris +4.7 points district, and also given the likely “blue wave” political environment this November. Of course, Luria first has to win the Democratic nomination in VA02, but that’s pretty much a done deal at this point. Former President Barack Obama: He pushed hard for Virginia to pass the redistricting amendment, and despite a tidal wave of right-wing disinformation about his actual position on this, the amendment won. So thanks to Barack Obama for all he did on this; we couldn’t have done it without him! Others who helped pass the amendment: A very short list includes Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, former AG Eric Holder, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, Adam Mockler, Politics Girl, JoJoFromJerz, Ryan Geddie, Tevin Davis, David Pakman, Suzanne Lambert, Elizabeth Booker Houston, Brian Tyler Cohen, Rep. James Walkinshaw, Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Rep. Jennifer McClellan, Rep. Bobby Scott, Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, Sen. Mark Warner, Sen. Tim Kaine, LG Ghazala Hashmi, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, etc, etc. Oh, and also a shoutout to former Redistricting Commission citizens member James Abrenio, a strong opponent of partisan gerrymandering who, nonetheless, went all out to pass the amendment (including being in TV ads), because he understood the broader picture for the country and for our democracy, rule of law, etc. as a whole. Thanks! Virginia grassroots: As a leading VA Democrat put it to me this morning, “they really stepped up given the quickness of race; county committees and ‘groups’ really made a huge difference.” Good stuff. Rural residents: One of the biggest of the “NO” campaign’s big lies was that new districts would “disenfranchise rural voters.” In fact, the exact opposite is the case, as rural voters in most of Virginia will see massive UPGRADES in their representation in the U.S. House. For instance, putting ideology and partisanship aside, would you rather have someone who will fight tenaciously for their district, as Tom Perriello will do in VA06 if he’s elected, or someone who doesn’t do JACK SHIT to help people in their district, or even actively HARMS them, as Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA06) has been doing for years? Or how about replacing the horrendously bad, worse-than-worthless John McGuire in Va05 with a Democrat who will actually fight for them? Or swapping godawful Rob Wittman in VA01 for Eugene Vindman? All huge upgrades, far from “disenfrachising” people. Also, of course, this is all just temporary, so if people in those rural areas are unhappy with Tom Perriello, Eugene Vindman, etc., in 2032 they can replace them with right-wing Republicans who harm their own interests. That will be their call after the next Census; in the meantime, they wil benefit from having real, serious representation in the U.S. House for a change! Mixed Elections Polls/Prognosticators: In the end, it looks like the amendment will pass by 3-4 points. So how did the polls and prognosticators do? As for the polls, State Navigate had it winning by 6 points (a few points higher than it actually won by), the WaPo/Schar School poll had it winning by 5 points (a point or two higher than it will probably end up), and an older Roanoke College poll had it losing by 8 points (yes, Roanoke College polling is godawful…has been godawful for years and shouldn’t be taken seriously). Meanwhile, “prediction”/betting markets had the amendment leading for weeks, the bigger question being the margin of victory (over at Polymarket, the amendment winning by 3-4 points led for much of the past few weeks, and that pretty much nailed it). Gov. Abigail Spanberger: She clearly had mixed feelings about the amendment, and it’s quite possible that this entire thing knocked her off her desire to stay 100% focused on “affordability” and the rest of her agenda (possibly contributing to the sharp drop in her approval ratings), but in the end, as she put it, her face was on millions of dollars in ads for the amendment (as well as against, including some egregious generative AI crap, which should be illegal), and the amendment won. So…mixed bag, I guess, although “a win’s a win” (and if the amendment had lost, Spanberger would have gotten a bunch of blame, fairly or unfairly). Winsome Earle-Sears: I’m throwing her name in here mostly to be snarky, but the fact is, it’s striking that the 2025 VA GOP gubernatorial nominee was completely invisible in this campaign. What’s going on here? Did she not oppose the amendment, did she just decide she’s had it with politics, was she persona non grata by Republicans, or what??? Jason Miyares: Having lost his 2025 reelection campaign and being out of a job – but wanting badly to make a comeback, presumably in 2029 for governor – Miyares was VERY active in opposing the amendment…and he lost. On the other hand, he got himself back out there, “back on the horse” so to speak, and presumably he’ll gain some goodwill from Republican voters for doing so… Glenn Youngkin: After seeing his endorsed candidates get wiped out in November 2025, Youngkin also got back out there, campaigned hard for this, and lost. On the other hand, just as with Miyares, at least Republican voters saw him campaigning hard, donating money, etc., so at the minimum you’d think they wouldn’t be angry at Youngkin going forward. Democratic U.S. House incumbents in districts that will change significantly: Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA07), Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA08), Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA10) and Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-VA11) all are in districts that will change significantly with the redistricting amendment having passed. So that will mean they’ll have to spend a lot of time, energy, money, etc, introducing themselves to new voters, as well as losing some of the people who voted for them previously. That’s got to be somewhat frustrating. On the other hand, all of them should be fine in their new districts, so not a big worry in that regard. Still, it’s change, in the “who moved my cheese?” sense, and that can be unsettling. [NOTE: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) and Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA04) weren’t particularly impacted by new district lines.] Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA09): On the one hand, already deep-red VA09 was drawn to be *even more red*, so Griffith’s 100% safe in that regard. On the other hand, could he face a Republican primary, given that there’s a game of musical chairs going on with some of his Republican colleagues, like Ben Cline and John McGuire? Something to keep an eye on. Losers Donald Trump: Every time this guy does a “tele-rally” before a Virginia vote, it seems like he loses. And yet again, he did a “tele-rally” the night before the 4/21 vote, and…yep, he lost. LOl. More substantively, Trump’s efforts to rig the midterm elections in his favor took a major hit last night, and barring intervention by right-wing-activist judges, plus his enemy-turned-buddy Ron DeSantis in Florida, it now looks like Republicans won’t gain any seats at all due to Trump’s malevolent, anti-democracy efforts. Added bonus: the sound of ketchup bottles being thrown against walls in the White House, lol. [UPDATED – missed a big one!] Speaker Mike Johnson: Actively campaigned for NO (did a tele-townhall with Trump; raised $500K for Team No; headlined Team No rally in Rockingham), debasing himself (even further, if that’s possible, given that he’s totally debased himself for a couple years now) with hypocrisy and lies in the process. With last night’s results, Johnson’s chances of staying Speaker just dropped by as many as 4 seats. And GOOD F’ING RIDDANCE to this utter disgrace, the worst Speaker in U.S. history by far. Reps. Jen Kiggans (R-VA02) and Rob Wittman (R-VA01): In short, they are now almost certain to see their pathetic political careers come to a merciful (for their constituents) end in November, as they’re both now going to be in essentially unwinnable districts for them in a “blue” political environment, and likely against very strong opponents to boot. Bye bye! Rep. John McGuire (R-VA05): This guy’s now completely “homeless” politically speaking, as his district (VA05) is now almost completely different, plus it’s now solid “blue.” In short, this insurrectionist, MAGA cultist, Trump bootlicker, extremist, etc. can now kiss his pathetic political career goodbye, barring intervention by the courts. Good riddance! VA GOP: After getting wiped out in 2025, they were hoping to start a comeback by winning the redistricting fight, but…nope. So where does that leave the VA GOP? Mostly, in about the same place they were after November 2025 – in bad shape, in an increasingly blue, or at least anti-MAGA/anti-Trump, Virginia. Traditional Media Coverage: Unfortunately, state/local media has been in decline for years, and that includes its coverage – or lack thereof – of local and state politics. That was certainly reflected in its coverage (or lack thereof) of the 2025 Virginia elections, as well as for the redistricting referendum. Just a few of many problems include: superficial and/or “horse race” (who’s up? who’s down?) coverage; relentless false equivalency/”both sidesism”; repeated failure to call out demonstrable, glaring lies by Republicans; misleading reporting of early vote patterns; anti-Democratic/anti-amendment editorials masquerading as “news” articles; etc. And then there’s the Bezos Post’s used-to-be-centrist-turned-right-wingnut editorial page, which was basically frothing at the mouth against the amendment, lying about Gov. Abigail Spanberger, etc, etc. Oh, and how about WJLA/Sinclair “news,” which is essentially just 24/7 right-wing propaganda, an arm of the Republican Party? Just abysmal. VA Supreme Court: The VA Supreme Court’s (mostly conservative) justices clearly don’t want to have to weigh in on this, and probably were hoping in their heart of hearts that voters would reject it, so they could say, “the question is now moot.” But since the referendum passed, albeit by a fairly small margin, the VA Supreme Court now has to do something, even if it’s just to say “the voters have spoken and we’re not going to intervene.” Anyway, we’ll see what they end up doing, but in the end, it’s very hard to imagine that they’d overturn the will of of the electorate, with over 3 million votes having been cast. But they can’t be happy right now, as they REALLY didn’t want to deal with this. Anyone who campaigned for the NO side, particularly anyone who claims to be a Democrat: There’s a long list here, including former Gov. George Allen, former LG Bill Bolling, 2025 VA GOP LG nominee John Reid, etc., etc. Plus, add in one of the main leaders of the 1VA2021 effort to pass the original “bipartisan” redistricting amendment, Brian Cannon. And many others, including far-right-extremist Peter Thiel, who spent millions (kinda like you or me spending a few hundred bucks) on the NO campaign – and lost, thankfully. The post Political Winners and Losers: Virginia Redistricting Referendum April 2026 appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 22, 202622 votes

Wednesday (4/22) News: “Why Trump’s latest blink on Iran could be more than a TACO Tuesday”; “Donnyland” in Ukraine?

by Lowell Here are a few international, national and Virginia news headlines, political and otherwise, for Wednesday, April 22. Congratulations to everyone who helped pass the redistricting amendment – and most importantly, FIGHT BACK against Trump’s insane, dangerous power grab! Heatwaves, floods and wildfires pose rising threat to democracy, report finds (“Research shows natural hazards linked to climate crisis disrupted 23 elections in 18 countries in 2024”) ‘Petro-masculinity’ is destroying the planet. Can eco-masculinity help save it? Pollen season in UK and mainland Europe extended by climate breakdown (“Research finds global heating has already lengthened the pollen season in addition to worsening heatwaves and droughts”) Global growth in solar “the largest ever observed for any source” (“The International Energy Agency says we’ve entered the Age of Electricity.”) ‘Donnyland’? Ukraine Proposes Naming Part of the Donbas in Trump’s Honor. (“The proposal reflects a global reality in which governments appeal to President Trump’s vanity to get American might on their side.” Trump might actually fall for this, he’s such a pathological/unhinged narcissist.) EU decides on key €90bn Ukraine loan after pipeline deadlock ends Trump weighs consequences for NATO allies on ‘naughty’ list (Trump is a Putin puppet.) Exclusive: US turns to Ukrainian counter-drone tech after Iran attacks Contested Druzhba pipeline resumes operations with EU close to signing off on €90bn loan for Ukraine Live updates: Iran attacks 3 ships in the Strait of Hormuz as Trump indefinitely extends ceasefire Trump news at a glance: Trump backs off threat to resume bombing Iran and extends ceasefire (“President changed his tune at request of Pakistan’s leaders, though he said military blockade of Iranian ports will continue”) Trump blasted Obama’s Iran deal. Now he faces similar tradeoffs. (“As U.S. envoys pursue peace talks, the president confronts the same sticking points: sanctions relief, enrichment limits and the risk of empowering Tehran.” DUH!) Trump Extends Cease-Fire With Iran (For Trump, it was “TACO Tuesday!”) Trust Trump? Iran’s Doubts Shadow Peace Talks. Trump announces indefinite extension of ceasefire as Iran stalls negotiations Trump extends Iran ceasefire indefinitely, in an about-face Why Trump’s latest blink on Iran could be more than a TACO Tuesday Tom Barrack Has His Own Mideast Policy (“Our man in Istanbul has some strange views for an American envoy.”) Proposed Lifetime Smoking Ban to Become Law in Britain (Good.) Magyar wants to put the Austro-Hungarian Empire back on the map (“Hungary’s incoming prime minister wants to forge closer ties with Austria and other Central European nations to wield greater power in Brussels.”) Trump Is Said to Be in Talks to Send Afghans Who Aided U.S. Forces to Congo (“A U.S. aid worker said that the Afghans, who were evacuated to Qatar, would face a choice between moving to the Democratic Republic of Congo and living under the Taliban.” INSANE. Also EVIL.) Thune nudges Trump to “wrap up” Fed probe Why Trump’s pick for Fed chair will not bring home the bank for the president (“Kevin Warsh, Trump’s ‘central casting’, has a long road ahead of convincing board members to lower interest rates”)ft Nearly half of US children are breathing dangerous levels of air pollution, report warns (“American Lung Association report comes amid Trump EPA’s expansive rollback of environmental protections”) Trump’s approval on economy falls in AP-NORC poll, showing new warning signs for president No Peace Plan, No Problem: Why the Wartime Market Keeps Rising (“Bad news stirs even greater interest among investors who see only prospects for the stock market to keep setting records.” Delusional?) John Roberts embodies MAGA cowardice CDC won’t publish report showing covid shots cut likelihood of hospital visits RFK Jr. Brazenly Says Measles Outbreaks Not His Fault: ‘I’ve Never Been Anti-Vaccine’ (These people’s “superpower” is shamelessness – whether Trump, Youngkin, RFK Jr, whoever, they just lie and lie and lie…and don’t care. Also, the media rarely if ever calls them on it, so why not???) Why the Pentagon is dropping a flu vaccine mandate (“US soldiers are now free to get the flu.”) Judge Halts Trump Actions Aimed at Throttling Renewable Energy Republicans fear succession of government shutdowns under Trump Trump Holds the American People in Total Contempt ‘Easily the Worst President in U.S. History’ (By FAR!) U.S. Abruptly Rescinds Subpoenas It Had Just Issued in John Brennan Inquiry (“The reversal came after the Justice Department replaced a career prosecutor with a loyalist to President Trump in the administration’s effort to charge the former C.I.A. chief with a crime.”) The SPLC indictment, the Klan history behind it, and the ignominy of Todd Blanche (“Another dark day for DOJ.”) DOJ charges Southern Poverty Law Center with fraud over secret funding of extremist groups (Beyond outrageous!) An Extra-Embarrassing White House Correspondents’ Dinner (“Why is Donald Trump breaking bread with the “enemy of the people”?” The more important question is why any journalist would break bread with Trump!!!) 11 Scientists Are Dead or Missing. It Was Only a Matter of Time Before Conspiracy Theories Hit the White House. (“A haphazard grouping of recent cases emerged from what one paranormal investigator describes as “mystery-mongering data mining.” It also made for ideal fodder for the president and our leading media personalities alike.”) ‘If my people’: Here’s why the Bible passage Trump read aloud is so potent and polarizing Trump fought to keep the ballroom fundraising contract secret. Here’s what’s in it. Texas can require public schools to display Ten Commandments in classrooms, court rules Tucker Carlson apologizes for ‘misleading’ people on Trump: ‘We’re implicated in this for sure’ (Hahahahaha, suuuuure.) Tucker and Trump’s marriage of convenience heads for divorce court Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Resigns Rep. Cory Mills says he won’t resign from Congress amid ethics probe into misconduct allegations Virginia voters just handed Democrats another win in the Great Redistricting Wars (“Trump’s gerrymandering efforts are backfiring.”) 5 takeaways from the Virginia redistricting vote The Redistricting Vote: Virginia Is Where Trump’s Scheme Came to Die (“The commonwealth’s voters just gave Democrats four more House seats—and dealt the Orange One a humiliating defeat in a fight he started.”) With Virginia vote, Democrats gain edge over Trump’s national GOP redistricting push Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts Video: After Passage of Redistricting Amendment, Del. Elizabeth Guzmán Announces Campaign for Congress in the New VA-07 (“An immigrant, mom, union member, and social worker who is ready to fight back against Trump’s attacks on her community”) Here are Virginia’s new congressional districts and who is running Virginia election results: Voters say ‘yes’ to redistricting, giving Democrats advantage In Virginia Redistricting Win, Democrats Play Hardball Virginia voters approve redistricting plan that could boost Democrats’ seats in Congress [UPDATE: YES WINS!] Live Blog: Virginia Redistricting Amendment Referendum Results (4/21/26) Virginia voters back redistricting amendment after months of legal and political battles (“Approval allows new congressional maps to take immediate effect, following intense fight over process, courts and campaign messaging.”) ‘Yes!’ wins in congressional redistricting referendum: It ain’t over, though Dems’ Virginia gamble pays off in redistricting wars Virginia passes redistricting measure that could help Democrats retake the House ‘The GOP should’ve done more’: Virginia Republicans point fingers after gerrymandering loss (“They are frustrated the party didn’t spend extensively and are putting pressure on Florida to give them back an edge.”) Spanberger cheers on Va. redistricting win as Republicans press courts to strike down planned maps Virginia voters narrowly pass redistricting referendum Virginians narrowly approve mid-decade redistricting effort ‘Yes’ won but did so in a way that there are now losers on both sides. Here are 5 reasons why. (This is the Dwayne Yancey-est of Dwayne Yancey columns, LOL! Seriously, WTF??? This is pathetic.) Virginia Dems Just Won a Major Battle in Trump’s Redistricting War (“Voters don’t like gerrymandering. But they seem to hate Trump even more.”) Yes: Virginia votes to redraw congressional maps, favoring Democrats Takeaways from Virginia’s vote to boost Democrats in national redistricting war (“The measure puts Democrats ahead in the battle for the House, but attention now shifts to Florida, where Republicans could regain the gerrymandering advantage.” That’s such a Bezos Post take – why is [fill in the blank story] bad news for Democrats???) Redistricting Referendum (4/21/26): Open Thread (Virginians need to stand up “against Donald Trump’s tyranny”) The governor’s amendments to energy and data center legislation will save money for customers (“A roundup of the most important data center and energy bills Spanberger signed this year, or which will return to legislators on Wednesday with minor amendments.”) Solar siting bill likely to become law after Spanberger amendments Spanberger names 4 to Virginia Tech Board of Visitors ahead of presidential search State bus line debuts new east-west route that connects 10 cities across Virginia (“Tickets for the Tidewater Current range from $15 to $60 and the full route from Virginia Beach to Harrisonburg takes just over six hours.” Nice.) Sandy Marks claims victory in Alexandria city council election Hours after judge denies motion to stop Oceanfront curfew, another filed by woman arrested smoking outside her apartment CWG Live: Scattered showers today and a warming trend through Friday (“Cooler this weekend, with showers possible Saturday.”) The post Wednesday (4/22) News: “Why Trump’s latest blink on Iran could be more than a TACO Tuesday”; “Donnyland” in Ukraine? appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 22, 202620 votes

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

See below for a few statements by Democratic candidates running for Congress in the new districts which will come into existence following passage of the redistricting amendment tonight (and assuming the courts don’t step in and stop it). ********************* Perriello Officially Running for Congress in Virginia’s New Sixth District Perriello Emerges as Early Frontrunner to Flip the Blue Ridge District CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA — With Virginia voting to approve new Congressional district maps, Tom Perriello is now officially running to represent the new Sixth Congressional District. This district of Blue Ridge communities stretches from Charlottesville and Lynchburg through the Shenandoah, Roanoke and New River Valleys. “Folks around here can agree on one thing – we are paying way too much for gas, groceries and healthcare. It’s time to fire Congressmen like Ben Cline who jacked up costs to protect the corrupt,” said Perriello. “I’ve held hundreds of listening sessions across the Blue Ridge, and families deserve a representative who will fight to get costs down, paychecks up, and common sense back in the driver’s seat.” Perriello enters the race as the clear frontrunner, according to early polling, fundraising, local and statewide endorsements, and a formidable early grassroots campaign. Since announcing in December, he has held over 200 community listening sessions in every county of the new district. He has sat down with farmers, healthcare workers, small business owners, veterans, students, educators, and faith leaders from Charlottesville to Harrisonburg, Roanoke to Blacksburg, Staunton to Waynesboro, and everywhere in between. “I’ve spent my career fighting corruption, at home and overseas, because the powerful should have to play by the same rules as the rest of us,” said Perriello. “I promise to fight for our communities to have good schools, affordable healthcare and housing, and a voice in shaping what happens in Washington. It’s time to build a new American dream that our communities can afford.” ***************** Beyer Statement on Virginia Election Results April 21, 2026 (Alexandria, VA) – Congressman Don Beyer today issued the following statement on the results of Virginia’s constitutional amendment referendum: “Over the last several weeks and through today, Virginians cast their ballots to defend fairness in the upcoming midterm elections by temporarily adopting new congressional districts. I am grateful to the volunteers, organizers, and everyone else who worked tirelessly to inform voters and drive turnout across the Commonwealth to deliver this result. “Virginia’s election today stands in stark contrast to Donald Trump’s efforts to influence November’s Congressional elections by bullying Republican-led legislatures into mid-decade redistricting. Here in Virginia, voters were given the opportunity to decide. “As I seek re-election in Virginia’s 8th District, I look forward to working to earn the trust and support of communities in the new district – from Arlington to Yorktown – while reconnecting with those I have had the honor of serving, including communities I previously represented as Lieutenant Governor. “The work we are doing in Congress to protect Virginians from Trump’s attacks is more important than ever, and I am as committed to it today as I have ever been. I will continue to put the needs of Virginians first and fight for progress in our community and our country.” ************ From Rep. Eugene Vindman Today, Virginia voters chose to preserve fair representation and level the playing field against Trump’s cruel and corrupt scheme to rig the 2026 election in his favor. They voted in favor of redrawing the state’s congressional maps to ensure voters decide elections — not politicians. This is a major win for our democracy, for fair representation, and for Virginia and beyond. And I’m incredibly proud to be a part of our Commonwealth. But this decision also marks a big change for us and our grassroots movement. I am now officially running for Congress in Virginia’s new First Congressional District. *********** Rep. Luria Releases Statement on Virginians Approving Redistricting Referendum VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Former small business owner, 20-year U.S. Navy veteran, and two-term member of Congress Rep. Elaine Luria released the following statement on Virginia voters approving the Virginia Redistricting Referendum: “As I have said since day one of this campaign, I am running in Virginia’s Second Congressional District to end the failed policies of Jen Kiggans and Donald Trump,” Rep. Luria said. “Tonight, I am thinking of all the Coastal Virginians that deserve better–including the more than 10,000 Sailors serving in the Middle East doing their duty in an unnecessary war under extreme conditions, and I am praying for their safe return to Hampton Roads. I promise to fight for my friends and neighbors every day when I am in Congress to lower prices for working families, cut health care and prescription drug costs, and expand and strengthen veterans benefits.” Rep. Luria outraised vulnerable Republican opponent Jen Kiggans for the second straight quarter as momentum continues to build behind her campaign. Rep. Luria raised more than $1.75 million in the first quarter of 2026, outraising Kiggans by more than $700K. The first quarter haul is a Q1 record for Rep. Luria, outraising herself as an incumbent in 2020 and 2022. Rep. Luria raised more than $1.1 million in Q4 of 2025 after hauling in $500,000 in the first 24 hours of her campaign launch. In addition to being added to the DCCC’s competitive Red to Blue program, Rep. Luria has secured key endorsements from Gov. Abigail Spanberger, Sen. Tim Kaine, Sen. Mark Warner, President Pro Tempore of the Senate of Virginia Louise Lucas, former Gov. Terry McAuliffe, VoteVets, New Politics, 314 Action Fund, League of Conservation Voters (LCV) Action Fund, EMILY’s List, DMFI, New Democrat Coalition Action Fund, and Elect Democratic Women. ABOUT ELAINE At only 17 years old, Elaine wanted to be a part of something bigger than herself and joined the Navy where she served for 20 years on combatant ships as a Surface Warfare Officer and nuclear engineer, deploying six times. Elaine used her experience in the Navy and as a small business owner to run for Congress in 2018, where she served as the representative for Virginia’s Second Congressional District until 2023. In Congress, Elaine delivered for Hampton Roads, securing direct investments in our communities, passing legislation to provide three cost-of-living increases for veterans, cutting health care and prescription drug costs, and leading the most significant expansion of veterans’ health care in our lifetime–the PACT Act. Elaine looks forward to getting back to work in Congress to make life more affordable for working families in Virginia, cut health care and prescription drug costs, expand and strengthen veterans benefits, and invest in Hampton Roads. ************* Prosecutor Shannon Taylor Reaffirms Run for Congress in Virginia’s New 5th Congressional District Taylor has backing of Governor Spanberger, more than $800,000 cash on hand, and strong momentum to flip Virginia’s new 5th District in must-win race to reclaim control of Congress HENRICO, VA – Henrico County’s top prosecutor Shannon Taylor released the following statement following the successful passage of Virginia’s redistricting referendum, reaffirming her campaign for Congress in Virginia’s new 5th Congressional District: “I got into this race to protect the community that I love, and I’m proud to continue that mission by running in Virginia’s 5th Congressional District where I’ve lived for 30 years. Donald Trump and House Republicans are hurting Virginia families and we need bold fighters who know how to take on the tough fights and win. Right now, hardworking Virginia families are being squeezed from every direction — by rising health care costs, higher prices, and politicians in Washington who look out for themselves instead of the people they represent. As Henrico’s top prosecutor, I’ve spent my career standing up for families and holding people accountable when they abuse their power. That’s the same fight I’ll take to Congress: delivering for Virginia families and making government work for them again.” Taylor is the Democratic frontrunner to flip Virginia’s new 5th Congressional District and has strong momentum behind her campaign, having already raised $1.3 million with more than $800,000 cash on hand. She has also earned endorsements from leaders across the Commonwealth including from Governor Abigail Spanberger, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, and Representatives Eugene Vindman, Don Beyer, Suhas Subramanyam, James Walkinshaw, and Jennifer McClellan. She also recently announced endorsements from 25 law enforcement leaders across the Commonwealth, signaling that her campaign is building the broad coalition needed to flip this seat. ABOUT SHANNON: Shannon Taylor is a battle-tested prosecutor with 25 years of experience and a 90% conviction rate in homicide cases, taking on the toughest threats to Virginia families and delivering justice. As Commonwealth’s Attorney, Taylor has taken on the KKK, pioneered programs to support victims of human trafficking, and led prosecutors statewide in pledging not to criminalize women or doctors for abortion care. She is a native of Charlottesville and graduate of the University of Virginia and the University of Richmond Law School, she began her career as a prosecutor in Richmond before serving as a Special Assistant in the U.S. Attorney’s office. In 2011, she flipped the Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office from Republican to Democrat, becoming the first woman elected to the role. She has since been re-elected three times, proving she knows how to win tough races. For more on Shannon Taylor’s campaign, visit ShannonTaylorVA.com. ************************** VIRGINIANS VOTE TO RESTORE FAIRNESS,REJECT MAGA POWER GRAB Ashburn, VA – Today, Virginians voted in favor of a temporary measure that will allow the state legislature to redraw the Commonwealth’s congressional districts mid-decade. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam issued the following statement: Virginians have spoken, and the message is clear: we support evening the playing field. Voters approved a temporary measure to respond to what President Trump started in Texas and other red states. I look forward to running in the redrawn 10th Congressional District and taking back the House majority this fall. Together, we will bring down costs, expand healthcare access, and hold this corrupt administration accountable. ### Congressman Suhas Subramanyam represents Virginia’s 10th Congressional District in Congress. He was the first Indian-American elected to represent the East Coast in Congress. Suhas is dedicated to serving Virginians, supporting working families, and protecting federal workers. He has worked tirelessly to do so since being sworn into Congress in January, 2025. Suhas resides in Ashburn, Virginia (in VA-10) with his wife Miranda and their two daughters. ************ Beth Macy Statement on the Passage of the Redistricting Referendum ROANOKE, VA —Beth Macy released the following statement on tonight’s passage of the redistricting referendum: “Today, Virginians’ voices were heard. Regardless of what the Virginia Supreme Court may decide in the coming weeks, Virginians have made it clear that they’re willing to fight tooth and nail against the excesses of Donald Trump to hold the wealthy and powerful accountable and build a new system that works for everyone.” ### Beth Macy has long stood with outsiders and underdogs. She grew up poor in a small Ohio town, became the first in her family to go to college, and built her adult life in Roanoke, Va., where she and her husband, Tom, raised their two children. For 25 years at The Roanoke Times, Beth covered the stories of people and communities across western Virginia—listening without judgment and digging for the truth, even when the truth was hard to hear. Beth has spent her career highlighting how the system has devolved to benefit billionaires over working families. She has listened to, grieved with, and advocated alongside parents who lost children to addiction, workers whose jobs disappeared, and communities forced to fight for basic services like child care, health care, and mental health treatment. She has watched Virginia families work harder than ever while falling further behind, as the people in power have become more beholden to corporations and the ultra-wealthy than to the communities that elected them. In this unprecedented time of democratic backslide, Beth is running for Congress to protect the rule of law, to expand access to health care and education—and to ensure that every American can build a better future for themselves and their families. ************ The post Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 22, 202612 votes

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Apr 22, 202614 votes

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Apr 22, 202613 votes

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Apr 22, 202610 votes

Photos: AAPI Leaders and Grassroots Activists Rally for “Vote YES” in Virginia

Michelle Moore, Bridge2Blue On April 15, the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community hosted a rally event supporting Virginia’s Vote YES redistricting campaign, featuring a strong lineup of political speakers, including ASPIRE PAC Chair U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY), Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA10), and James Walkinshaw (D-VA11), State Sen. Stella Pekarsky, and Virginia Delegates Irene Shin and Adele McClure. Speakers also included community leaders Kee Jun, chair of Korean Outreach of Democratic Asian Americans of Virginia (DAAV) and Becky Belcore with Hamkae Power, an Asian American immigrant, civil, and human rights organization. Sponsors included NAKASEC Action Fund, DAAV, Fairfax Democrats Asian Pacific Islander Caucus, and Fight for Fairness. Speakers emphasized the high stakes of the Vote YES campaign, warning against a MAGA-driven power grab, and pointing to the day-to-day hardships many Americans face, from affording medication and medical care to coping with rising prices. Members of Congress raised concerns about attacks on voting-rights and immigrant communities and pledged their commitment to protecting the rights and wellbeing of everyone. Representative Strickland, whose ASPIRE APC is dedicated to investing directly in the AANHPI community offering a voice for the AANHPI community and mobilizing the AANHPI vote, commented that “Asian Americans represent the fastest growing group of voters and are often the margin of victory in close races. And this is why it was so important for me with my colleagues to lead the rally to ensure that our community shows up and votes yes.” Anika Rahman, Chair of DAAV, shared “it was truly inspiring to attend the AAPI community rally and stand alongside so many dedicated grassroots activists and community leaders. These volunteers have poured their time, energy, and heart into serving our communities, creating in-language resources, raising awareness, and ensuring our voices are heard. It was especially meaningful to see our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) elected officials take the time to join us, reaffirming how critical this moment is and the power of collective action. Their presence, alongside the strength of our community, is a powerful reminder that our voices matter, and that together, we can continue building a more informed, engaged, and empowered future.” Kee Jun highlighted the values driving AAPI civic action, “over 50 years ago, my family came to the United States seeking opportunity, education, and a better future. Standing at King Spa beside the statue of Geneal Yi and the Turtle Ship reminded us that courage and perseverance shape history. The AAPI community believes in fairness, participation, and protecting democratic values so every voice is represented.” Hamkae Power has reached out to 180,000 Asian American voters across Virginia to urge them to vote YES for redistricting. Becky Belcore captured the sentiment of the event: “we believe our elections must be fair, and voting YES will restore fairness and balance. Our government should focus on addressing issues that concern Asian Americans and all Americans, such as good jobs, affordable housing, healthcare, and childcare. Instead, the Trump administration is spending our taxpayer dollars on wars abroad and attacking our immigrant communities at home. Virginians must win this election for ourselves, our families, and our country!” Well said! The post Photos: AAPI Leaders and Grassroots Activists Rally for “Vote YES” in Virginia appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 18, 20269 votes

Photos: AAPI Leaders and Grassroots Activists Rally for “Vote YES” in Virginia

Apr 18, 202614 votes

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

With just two more days of early voting, and with the special election in just 4 1/2 days, see below for video and highlights from tonight’s Yes for Virginia Live rally, featuring Speaker Hakeem Jeffries, Gov. Abigail Spanberger, Sen. Mark Warner, former AG Eric Holder, VA Senate President Pro Tempore Louise Lucas, VA Speaker Don Scott, Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA04), Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03), Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA07), Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA08), Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-VA11), Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA10), and many others. Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-VA11) and Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA04): Rep. Walkinshaw says this is a huge day for Virginians and Americans next Tuesday; the opportunity is to level the playing field, then elect a Congress to stand up to Trump and rein in the chaos and recklessness. Rep. McClellan says the stakes are literally life and death, with huge cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care act subsidies with the Big Ugly Bill, etc. That’s why we need Democrats back in control. VA Senate President Pro Tempore Louise Lucas and VA Speaker Don Scott: On the dirty tricks by white nationalists in this election, Sen. Lucas says that a lie left standing becomes truth in the minds of some people, so that’s what MAGA Republicans are doing. What we’re doing in Virginia is fighting back. Speaker Scott says it’s a privilege to be in this fight in this moment; says right wingers have propagated images of Jim Crow to try to trick Black people; even put MLK Jr. on their fliers to try to trick Black voters, but Black voters don’t fall for their tricks. It’s crucial that we stand up in the cradle of the Confederacy, do justice to our ancestors – by voting YES. Sen. Lucas – “every lie…must be met with truth.” Speaker Scott says we don’t have to guess what Trump wants to do, he did it on 1/6/21! CA Gov. Gavin Newsom talks about the ruthlessness of the right and what Donald Trump is pursuing. So this an imperative and people can’t get exhausted, but need to keep fighting against this 24/7 “smash-and-grab” by the Trump administration. Need to deliver a decisive blow to Trump’s agenda next Tuesday. There are no rules or limits with Trump and MAGA; we have to fight back accordingly. “This is madness” with Trump, an “open sewer of corruption” – and it’s “all on the line” for him in these elections (he wants to rig it but we can’t let him); the Trump presidency ends as we know if we do our jobs this November. Leader Hakeem Jeffries says this is about ensuring a fair national map, and that this will impact policy for years if not generations to come. This has national and international ramifications; this could cut Trump’s presidency in half. Republicans aren’t functioning as a separate and coequal branch of government to rein in a lawless administration, but instead are a wholly owned subsidiary of the Trump cartel. Democrats WILL be a check and balance on this out-of-control administration. To get there, we need a fair national map and a free-and-fair election. Sen. Mark Warner says we have an administration that’s “gone totally rogue” and “Americans are paying the price.” In 2022, Donald Trump stole three seats in NC, without much attention, and could have made Hakeem Jeffries the Speaker (plus avoided the Big Ugly Bill passing). Democrats have always supported nonpartisan redistricting, but not when Republicans cheat – we’re changing the rules because Republicans cheated. Says he’s given up on Republicans until they come back to sanity and a legitimate Republican Party, pretty much, and that for now we just need to focus on “kick[ing] their ass.” Eric Holder rips the racist, dishonest, deeply cynical campaign being run by the NO people – Republicans’ highest priority is serving the interests of Donald Trump. We have a chance to retake the US House – they don’t think they can win a fair fight, so now it’s time for Virginians to fight back (a “temporary measure for an extraordinary moment”; what happens in Virginia will change the course of the country). Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA10) and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03): Rep. Subramanyam says when Congress attacks democracy, everyday people feel it first and the worst; “we need to put the people first.” Rep. Scott said Democrats need to be in the majority to have a subpoena power and get questions answered; also, African American are losing a lot under Republicans. Rep. Subramanyam says Democrats need to fight back and not act like these are normal times, because they ARE NOT – we will not roll over when they break the rules. Rep. Scott says we’re leveling the playing field, pushing back hard against Republicans – and we’re going to win this election because people know what’s at stake can can’t let Republicans keep stealing seats. Rep. Subramanyam says that Republicans have betrayed all their principles, and even many Republicans don’t like it. Rep. Scott says we can’t allow Republicans add to their totals by stealing seats, without being able to catch up to them. Rep. Subramanyam says everything’s on the line in next Tuesday’s vote; this could, effectively, determine control of the U.S. House this November – YES means a check on Donald Trump. Rep. Scott says it shows how weak the opposition is that they have to resort to lies, and that most people are’t confused, they’re offended and can’t wait to vote. Gov. Abigail Spanberger says this all began with Trump saying he was “entitled” to extra seats in Congress. So Virginia is responding. Now, everyone needs to vote YES. None of us want to have to be in this place, but the fact is we have a president trying to grab power. Says she’s expecting huge numbers of voters on Election Day. The “NO” campaign has dishonestly used her face and President Obama’s face in their ads. If voters approve these maps, they’ll be in place until after the next Census, after which we’ll return to the bipartisan commission. Despite all the efforts to trick voters, make sure voters know the truth and vote YES. Politics Girl says this is about stopping a Donald Trump power grab, that he’s not “entitled” to anything. This is a way to level the playing field for a limited time. There’s lots of misinformation out there, unfortunately, funded by Peter Thiel. It’s time to take our power back. Thanks Virginia for being brave and doing what we’re doing. Trump is behaving like someone who never intends to leave office. Bryan Tyler Cohen kicks it off, says we need to keep momentum going and remind everyone to vote YES tomorrow, Saturday or Tuesday. Go to IWillVote.com/va to find your polling place. The post Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 16, 20266 votes

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Apr 16, 202613 votes

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Apr 16, 20266 votes

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Apr 16, 202611 votes

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Apr 16, 202618 votes

Video: Sen. Tim Kaine Catches OMB Director Russ Vought in a Series of Wild Lies About Tariffs Supposedly Not Being Taxes, Dept. of Defense Supposedly Being “Dept. of War”…

See below for video and highlights of Sen. Tim Kaine questioning the odious, extremist, sociopathic O.M.B. director Russ Vought this morning. Sen. Tim Kaine: “There’s been some discussion about the DHS funding bill that the Senate passed unanimously now twice. The votes are there in the House to pass it. The leadership will not take it up. You were before the House yesterday. Did you encourage the House to finally pass the DHS bill?…Hold on…Hold on..You had the opportunity to tell the House yesterday to pass a bill that you say you support, that 100% of the Senate supports and you didn’t bring it up.” Sen. Tim Kaine: “Second question. I was interested in the revenues in the budget that you’ve sent over. One, revenue in particular interested me was tariffs. What you’re assuming for tariffs, you can see that the numbers on tariffs were sort of bumping around at less than $100 billion a year, $100 billion in 2022, $195 billion in 2025, when the tariffs started to kick in…Tariffs have been determined to be illegal by the Supreme Court, the IEEPA tariffs. Next week you’re starting to refund $166 billion of tariffs. So I was interested to see what your tariff projection was going to be. And actually, what I see is far from going down as you’re refunding illegal tariffs, you’re predicting dramatic increases in tariffs. What is President Trump going to tax next?” Sen. Tim Kaine: “…tariffs are a tax…90% of the cost of the tariffs last year fell on American consumers and businesses, and…the average in 2025 was $1,000 per American tax household…So you’re going through a process to decide what are you going to tax next? Who are you going to tax next to reach these astronomical tariff numbers? Russ Vought: “We don’t think there are a tax on the American people. They have not raised prices…” Sen. Tim Kaine: “…who are you going to impose the tariffs on next?…what industry sectors are you going to hobble? Do you know he’s not hobbling….’Liberation Day’, yeah, that’s the one that you did right before tax day that took bucks out of American families’ pockets.” Sen. Tim Kaine: “I’ve heard you go back and forth between talking about the investment in the Department of Defense or the Department of War. Now just for everybody here, legally the name of this department is the Department of Defense, correct?” Russ Vought: “It’s the Department of War.” Sen. Tim Kaine: “And why do you say that?” Russ Vought: “Because that’s what the president and his team has renamed it.” Sen. Tim Kaine: “And there’s a statute that calls it the Department of Defense. The president did an executive order saying the Department of War was a secondary title in September of 2025. Have you been instructed to use the phrase the Department of War? [“No”]…You’re just voluntarily complying with this whimsical cosplay?…Are you aware of legislation that’s been passed by Congress to change the name?…I would look forward to that debate because I think you’ll get laughed out of the room and you’ll become a punchline on TV. Nations all around the world have secretaries and ministers of defense; do you know of any that has a Secretary of Minister of War?…I will tell you that there’s no other nation. Do you know when the oath that our military officers take is the word war mentioned? Defense is mentioned, war is not.” Sen. Tim Kaine: “Finally, you’ve sacked people. Do you know what percentage are veterans?…30% of the federal workforce is veterans. So when you fire people. I think you have fired more veterans than any administration in the history of the United States.” The post Video: Sen. Tim Kaine Catches OMB Director Russ Vought in a Series of Wild Lies About Tariffs Supposedly Not Being Taxes, Dept. of Defense Supposedly Being “Dept. of War”… appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 16, 202614 votes

Video: Sen. Tim Kaine Catches OMB Director Russ Vought in a Series of Wild Lies About Tariffs Supposedly Not Being Taxes, Dept. of Defense Supposedly Being “Dept. of War”…

Apr 16, 20269 votes

Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money”

See below for a video clip of Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) questioning one of the worst members of the Trump administration – and that’s saying a lot! – the odious OMB Director Russ Vought. Also, check out the press release from Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-VA11), which says ““Director Vought’s testimony in support of President Trump’s FY 2027 Budget exposes this Administration’s reckless approach to the federal workforce, its misuse of taxpayer dollars, and the damage it is doing to the services Americans rely on every day” and “Contrary to Vought’s statements today, under the banner of ‘efficiency,’ DOGE took a wrecking ball to our nonpartisan civil service, disrupting agencies, pushing out experienced nonpartisan public servants, and creating deep uncertainty for federal workers and their families.” Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought: “CBO estimates the…’Big Ugly Bill’…is going to add about $4 trillion to the debt. What is your estimate of the damage done to the fiscal situation of that bill?” Russ Vought: “It will reduce the deficit by $1.5 trillion over the next 10 years if you account for the right baseline.” Rep. Bobby Scott: “OK, so, everybody thinks it’s going to add about $4 trillion to the debt and you think it’s going to save money.” ***************** Walkinshaw Statement on Russ Vought’s House Budget Testimony Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), a Co-Chair of the Federal Workforce Caucus and a Member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, released the following statement in response to Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought’s prepared testimony before the House Budget Committee advocating for President Trump’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Budget. “Director Vought’s testimony in support of President Trump’s FY 2027 Budget exposes this Administration’s reckless approach to the federal workforce, its misuse of taxpayer dollars, and the damage it is doing to the services Americans rely on every day. Contrary to Vought’s statements today, under the banner of ‘efficiency,’ DOGE took a wrecking ball to our nonpartisan civil service, disrupting agencies, pushing out experienced nonpartisan public servants, and creating deep uncertainty for federal workers and their families. Yet the promised savings failed to materialize. Far from delivering savings and efficiency, a nonpartisan analysis found that DOGE’s actions could cost taxpayers $135 billion by forcing employees onto paid leave, rehiring mistakenly fired workers, and driving down productivity. The public record also reveals DOGE’s false claims. Reporting analyzing DOGE’s own published figures found that DOGE claimed more than 29,000 contract and grant cancellations across the federal government, but federal spending still went up. Director Vought is also advocating for a budget that would freeze federal worker pay after last year’s 1 percent raise, which did not keep pace with inflation, while pursuing cuts that would weaken agencies, reduce support for critical public services, and make it harder to recruit and retain the skilled public servants needed to carry out essential missions. Federal workers are not line items on a spreadsheet or pawns in a political agenda. They are dedicated public servants who help keep our country safe and our government functioning. The American people deserve a government that is efficient and effective. They also deserve a budget that strengthens critical services, supports the public servants who deliver them, and meets the real needs of working families at a time when working families are already under immense financial strain.” The post Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money” appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 15, 202612 votes

Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money”

Apr 15, 20265 votes

Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money”

Apr 15, 202610 votes

Wednesday (4/15) News: “Iran’s Regime Has Changed—for the Worse”; “Republicans’ big 2026 problem: An unhinged Trump who doesn’t seem to care about them”

by Lowell Here are a few international, national and Virginia news headlines, political and otherwise, for Wednesday, April 15. Sperm whales’ communication closely parallels human language, study finds (“Analysis shows whales’ coda vocalizations are ‘highly complex’ and remarkably similar to our own”) Global Finance and Energy Leaders Warn of Potentially Dire Impacts From Iran War (“Reports from the International Monetary Fund and the International Energy Agency warn of possible global recession as the U.S. enacts a blockade at the Strait of Hormuz.”) Vance Says the Pope Should Be More Careful When Talking About Theology (“The vice president, who is Catholic, took issue with Pope Leo XIV’s statement that disciples of Christ are ‘never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs.'” Of course, Vance is f’ed up and the Pope is right.) Iran war escalation could trigger global recession, IMF warns US allies won’t join Trump’s war — but they can’t escape the fallout Trump Is Waging One Big War Against the Rest of the World (“The bombings, assassinations, and kidnappings that have defined much of Trump’s second term make more sense understood together, rather than as disparate events.”) Trump Hints at War’s End as Hormuz Standoff Chokes Oil Flows (“The shift in the narrative from Washington has left many questions unanswered, including the fate of Iran’s enriched uranium.”) Iranian sea trade blocked as six ships forced to turn back, U.S. military says Hopes rise for renewed talks as US military says Iran blockade is in force Iran’s Regime Has Changed—for the Worse (“The U.S.-Israeli attack fast-tracked the ascent of hard-liners and apocalyptic religious followers, raising doubts about a lasting peace”) Trump says talks could resume this week as Vance says US wants ‘grand bargain’ with Iran Europe Is Accelerating a NATO Fallback Plan in Case Trump Pulls Out (“The Continent is drawing up a contingency for greater European involvement as tensions rise over Iran war”) Russia offers China energy lifeline as the Iran war strangles global supply Exclusive: U.K.-Ukraine duo beats Americans at their own drone game Scoop: U.S. suggests Cuba complicit in helping Russia fight Ukraine (Well, Trump’s effectively helping Russia as well, so…) Cuba could beat US energy blockade with $8bn investment in renewables, says thinktank North Korea rapidly expanding nuclear weapons capability, UN watchdog warns Magyar meets Hungarian president as Trump says next PM ‘a good man’ (“President Tamás Sulyok, who has refused Magyar’s demand to step down, is widely expected to nominate Magyar as the next prime minister. Magyar has said he needs to be in office by about 5 May”) Hungary’s New Leader Reveals Viktor Orbán Was Paying CPAC (“Péter Magyar called the payments a ‘crime’ and said his government would stop the funds.”) US military says it killed four more people in a boat strike in the eastern Pacific (These are almost certainly crimes; at the minimum, they’ll need to be investigated if/when Democrats are back in power…) 250 missing after migrant boat sinks in Indian Ocean (Horrible.) ‘Humiliated, broken, powerless’: Sudan enters fourth year of war (This horrible war should be getting a TON more attention than it is.) ICE deported 442k people in fiscal year 2025 (“The top-line figure is about 171,000 people more than the fiscal year before, but far short of Trump’s campaign promise to deport one million people a year.”) GOP leaders struggle to keep $75B immigration plan narrow French woman, 86, held by ICE after moving to US to marry 1950s sweetheart (“The family of Marie-Thérèse, from Brittany, fear for her health after she was cuffed and placed in a detention centre”) Trump’s Catholic Border Czar Melts Down at the Pope: ‘Stay Out of It’ (“Tom Homan is the latest Trump administration figure to come out fighting against Pope Leo.”) Trump’s Fed Pick Discloses Vast Wealth Ahead of Confirmation Hearing (“Kevin M. Warsh vowed to divest a substantial amount of his more than $100 million in assets as he faces a complicated path to becoming the next chair of the Federal Reserve.”) Prosecutors Make Surprise Visit to Fed as Pirro Defends Investigation (It’s completely indefensible and disgraceful.) Jeanine Pirro’s Prosecutors Make Surprise Visit to Fed Headquarters (“A pair of Pirro’s deputies were turned away after showing up at the construction site for central-bank renovation project”) Inside a jubilant DC conference where ‘the climate deniers are in charge now’ (Climate denial should, in a sane country, be an automatic disqualifier for holding any public office – or any position of power – EVER.) Dozens of Project 2025 proposals appear to be included in the Trump administration’s newest budget (We are living in a nightmarish, dystopian timeline.) Thune says Senate GOP ‘prepared’ to fill potential Supreme Court vacancy (“The president is interested in Sen. Ted Cruz as a potential pick” Hell f’ing no.) White House favors Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, to lead CDC (“Schwartz would be Trump’s third nominee to lead the CDC. She left government in 2021, after the Biden administration passed her over for acting U.S. surgeon general”) Even some in right-wing media are now asking questions about Trump’s age and mental acuity Republicans’ big 2026 problem: An unhinged Trump who doesn’t seem to care about them Johnson says he told Trump to take down image of president-as-Jesus ‘They’re not getting what they voted for’: Jesus meme lays bare GOP frustrations with Trump (“The president’s attacks on the first American pope and a deleted Jesus meme are deepening fractures within his MAGA coalition.”) President, Extremely Normal Brain-Wise: Pope Weak On Crime, Also I’m Dr. Jesus Christ Trump is right: He is MAGA’s Jesus (“The president’s blasphemy exposes the truth about the Christian right” Gotta love how they went with the antithesis of Jesus to be their Jesus. At best, they’re f’ing morons.) Trump’s Latest Meltdown (“Attacking the pope was only part of the president’s disturbing night on Truth Social.”) Trump’s Blasphemy Is a Warning (I hate linking to Ross Douthat, but we’ll give him one this time.) Trump may believe he is the messiah – but his attack on the pope could prove costly for JD Vance (“The president’s attack on the head of the Catholic church and the AI depiction of himself as a Christ-like figure have not gone down well with one of the largest groups of swing voters in the US”) Trump Is Not a Man in Control of Himself Another pardoned Jan. 6 rioter to admit guilt in child sexual abuse case (“David Daniel has reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors after a judge ruled that President Donald Trump’s pardons in the Capitol attack didn’t apply to child exploitation.” If you stormed the US Capitol on 1/6/21, you are pretty much the worst of the worst – and OBVIOUSLY SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN PARDONED BY THE F’ING PRESIDENT!) SpaceX Is Basically a Huge Meme Stock (“The company may be losing money, but it will soon be the most expensive big stock in the market.” Crazy.) Justice Department moves to toss seditious conspiracy convictions of Oath Keepers and Proud Boys (Absolutely APPALLING!) Trump’s Bottomless Nihilism Is Eating Our Future (“While a few lucky insiders may be getting rich from this misrule, the rest of us are watching the needless destruction of our collective future.”) Ilhan Omar Pushes Democrats To Embrace Marjorie Taylor Greene, Other MAGA Stars Ditching Trump (Absolutely not re: embracing Marjorie Taylor Greene!) JD Vance Would Make a Horrible Presidential Candidate (“He’s unpopular and unlikable. No amount of Vancewashing in the news is going to change that.” Vance is one of the most odious people in America, and that’s saying a lot.) Vance Heckled in Antiwar Protest at Turning Point USA Event Erika Kirk withdraws from event with JD Vance over threats, VP says JD Vance Humiliated by Embarrassing Crowd Size at Free Show FEMA Official Gregg Phillips—the Waffle House Guy—Has Been Saying Even Crazier Stuff Than We Thought (“He’s since been quietly sidelined from his post, which is probably for the best.”) Woman accuses Eric Swalwell of rape in 2018, reports it to authorities (Swalwell sounds truly evil and dangerous. Which raises the question, how the HELL did nobody notice this – or if they did, why didn’t they report it to the police? – all these years???) Gallego Dismissed Rumors of a ‘Flirty’ Swalwell, Highlighting a Culture of Silence (This “culture of silence” has to end, whether in Congress or in Richmond or wherever.) Sen. Ruben Gallego alleges Eric Swalwell ‘lied’ and ‘betrayed’ him, says he never saw inappropriate behavior (Hard to believe…) Swalwell and Gonzales resign from Congress under threat of expulsion Swalwell departure helps Democrats narrow field in California race Florida’s planned special session on redistricting just got a bit murkier (“Gov. Ron DeSantis sidestepped questions on whether he would give lawmakers a proposed map to work with once the session does begin and contended the Legislature will pass a new map in the next ‘couple of weeks.'”) Pittsburgh Post-Gazette announces it has found a buyer to keep the newspaper open Maine Lawmakers Pass Ban on Large Data Centers (“The bill, which blocks centers that draw over 20 megawatts of power until late 2027, heads to Democratic Gov. Janet Mills”) Sen. Mark Warner Demands DHS Accountability: Calls on New Secretary to Restore Oversight, Fully Cooperate with Congress and IG (“I expect your leadership of DHS to differ from your predecessor”) Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, D-Va., on ethics and the resignations of 2 congressmen McClellan Joins ERA Symposium to Give Closing Remarks McClellan Wants to Make Childbirth Free on InvestigateTV+ (Classic example of poor syntax in a headline; obviously, McClellan doesn’t want to just make childbirth free *on InvestigateTV+”; she wants to make it free EVERYWHERE. LOL) Worried about the midterms, Republicans mobilize rural Virginia voters against redistricting (Those rural voters, by the way, will get FAR FAR BETTER representation from a Democrat over their current horrible Republican, for instance Tom Perriello over Ben Cline!) Democrats line up to run in Virginia congressional districts, even before voters approve them All eyes on Virginia as redistricting battle enters the final stretch (Gotta love that expression, “all eyes on”; in fact, hardly anyone in the rest of the country is paying attention to this.) Olivia Troye, Trump aide turned critic, launches Virginia congressional bid Olivia Troye, Ex-Pence Aide, Runs for the House as a Democrat (“After spending most of her Washington career as a Republican, she joins a crowded field of Democrats running in a Virginia district that doesn’t exist yet.”) Virginia Governor Ends Tax Breaks for Confederate Groups Spanberger proposes big changes to bills including cannabis, assault firearms and sick leave Gov. Spanberger Proposes Amendments to Keep Virginians Safe (Includes bills on future sales of assault weapons, working with ICE, officers covering their faces, a legal retail market for marijuana, etc.) Gov. Spanberger Proposes Amendments to Protect Workers & Support Employers (“…my amendments are about making sure that when these laws take effect, they work — for workers, for businesses, and for the localities and the Commonwealth that will implement them.”) Freedom Virginia Says Gov. Spanberger’s Amendments to the Affordable Medicine Act “gutted this landmark legislation of its integrity and effectiveness” (On a more positive note, “Freedom Virginia Celebrates Progress as Paid Family and Medical Leave Heads Back to General Assembly”) Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus Delivers on Affordability Legislation as Governor Signs Key Bills into Law (“This is what governing looks like when you put people first.”) Spanberger proposes amendments to immigrant protection bills (“Lawmakers say the governor’s changes do not meet the urgency of the moment.”) Spanberger amends, signs sweeping gun legislation reshaping Virginia’s firearm laws Governor pitches amendments to Prescription Drug Affordability Board bill that some say ‘nullify’ it Spanberger proposed amendments to paid family medical leave Lots of amendments to General Assembly bills, some rufflled feathers Spanberger counters false GOP claims of tax hikes: ‘A desperate tactic’ (“Republicans keep criticizing Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger over proposed tax increases by Democratic legislators that never passed and that she never endorsed.” Excellent subheader – miraculously?!? – by the Bezos Post> Up next, pigs and cows fly? LOL) Virginia Democrats spar with governor over money to pay looming bills 7 things to know about Spanberger’s action on bills the General Assembly passed (“Spanberger signed most of the bills you’d expect a Democratic governor would…Some Democratic legislators aren’t happy with Spanberger…Spanberger still has a Lucas problem”) Aird and Krizek push back on Spanberger amendments to retail marijuana market Spanberger proposes delaying legal cannabis market in Virginia Could new gambling options, all but dead legislatively, patch holes in Virginia’s budget? Megasite project could be in jeopardy if data center tax exemptions are ended, finance secretary warns (“The project, which is expected to bring more than 2,000 jobs and $73 billion in investment to Pittsylvania County, could “go away,” Mark Sickles told state senators.”) Voters turn on data centers in this hot spot for the facilities, poll shows (“Virginians previously embraced the facilities, but a Post-Schar School poll finds they are now almost as undesirable as nuclear plants.”) Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors discusses details of their search for a new president Virginia Beach to weigh Oceanfront curfew for all ages Roanoke Rambler’s new owner says changes necessary for sustainability (“Ollie Howie, an entrepreneur and investor who grew up in Roanoke, said the publication’s expenses have been exceeding its monthly revenue.”) Buck-Hayes set to make plea in case of setting council member on fire (This guy should stay in prison for a loooong time.) CWG Live: April heat could break records today and tomorrow; warm through Saturday (“Highs head for near to above 90 today and tomorrow.” That’s f’ed up.) The post Wednesday (4/15) News: “Iran’s Regime Has Changed—for the Worse”; “Republicans’ big 2026 problem: An unhinged Trump who doesn’t seem to care about them” appeared first on Blue Virginia.

Apr 15, 202618 votes

Wednesday (4/15) News: “Iran’s Regime Has Changed—for the Worse”; “Republicans’ big 2026 problem: An unhinged Trump who doesn’t seem to care about them”

Apr 15, 202613 votes

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Political Winners and Losers: Virginia Redistricting Referendum April 2026

Wednesday (4/22) News: “Why Trump’s latest blink on Iran could be more than a TACO Tuesday”; “Donnyland” in Ukraine?

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Statements by Rep. Eugene Vindman, Rep. Don Beyer, Elaine Luria, Tom Perriello, Shannon Taylor, etc. After Virginia Approves New US House Districts

Photos: AAPI Leaders and Grassroots Activists Rally for “Vote YES” in Virginia

Photos: AAPI Leaders and Grassroots Activists Rally for “Vote YES” in Virginia

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Video: With Just Two More Days of Early Voting Before 4/21 Election, Check Out the “Yes for Virginia Live Rally” at 7 pm

Video: Sen. Tim Kaine Catches OMB Director Russ Vought in a Series of Wild Lies About Tariffs Supposedly Not Being Taxes, Dept. of Defense Supposedly Being “Dept. of War”…

Video: Sen. Tim Kaine Catches OMB Director Russ Vought in a Series of Wild Lies About Tariffs Supposedly Not Being Taxes, Dept. of Defense Supposedly Being “Dept. of War”…

Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money”

Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money”

Video: Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA03) to Russ Vought – “So everybody thinks [the Big Ugly Bill’s] going to add about $4 trillion to the debt & you think it’s going to save money”

Wednesday (4/15) News: “Iran’s Regime Has Changed—for the Worse”; “Republicans’ big 2026 problem: An unhinged Trump who doesn’t seem to care about them”

Wednesday (4/15) News: “Iran’s Regime Has Changed—for the Worse”; “Republicans’ big 2026 problem: An unhinged Trump who doesn’t seem to care about them”