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RICHMOND, Va. The Virginia Supreme Court heard oral arguments Monday over whether to block a voter-approved constitutional amendment that authorized a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan drawn by Democrats; plaintiffs say the General Assembly violated procedural requirements when placing the measure on the ballot. The map, approved by voters last week, could net Democrats up to four additional U.S. House seats ahead of November's elections. Justices questioned attorneys Monday, signaling skepticism of defense arguments; if the court invalidates the amendment the referendum and map would be void, potentially changing projected House outcomes. Republicans argue the amendment failed a two-session requirement because early voting had already begun before an initial passage, while Democrats maintain Election Day, not early voting start, satisfies timing rules and preserves the vote.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.