From VA Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell’s office:
Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell Releases Statement on Richmond Judge Blocking 2nd GOP Attempt to Protect President Trump’s Map-Rigging Plan
Richmond, VA — For the second time in a week, a Virginia judge has denied a Republican request for a preliminary injunction and temporary restraining order aimed at going along with President Trump’s plan to rig congressional districts nationwide.
On Friday, October 31, 2025, The Circuit Court Clerk’s of Henrico County, Lunenberg County and Spotsylvania County filed suit seeking a Temporary Restraining Order and Preliminary Injunction against the Clerks of the Senate of Virginia and House of Delegates from recording the General Assembly actions to initiate the process to amend the Constitution of Virginia to permit redistricting in 2026. Their request for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction was denied the afternoon of Monday, November 3, 2025 by City of Richmond Circuit Judge Tracy Thorne-Begland.
Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell released the following statement:
“This decision reaffirms a simple truth: Virginia’s courts are not controlled by President Trump. While the U.S. Supreme Court will not limit President Trump’s power, Virginia’s courts remain independent and have now spoken clearly twice — our institutions in Virginia still serve the people, not just one President or party.”
Last Friday, Sen. Surovell gave a floor speech urging the General Assembly to take a hard look at the future of Virginia’s redistricting system and its impact on democratic accountability amid nationwide partisan gerrymandering efforts by Republican-controlled states.
Speaking from the floor he noted that Virginia led America in the founding of the United States of America and said, “While Virginia has worked in good faith to reform our redistricting process, Republican states have weaponized map-drawing to predetermine outcomes regardless of how citizens vote.” He added, “When only one side plays by the rules, the rules become unilateral disarmament.”
You can see video of the floor speech here: https://youtu.be/
A copy of the complaint filed in Richmond Circuit Court is attached.
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Senator Scott A. Surovell represents the 34th Senate District encompassing Southeastern Fairfax County. Prior to his time in the Senate, Surovell served six years in the House of Delegates. Surovell lives in Mt. Vernon. He practices law and has dedicated his legislative career to fighting for Northern Virginia’s fair share, protecting consumers, and preserving our environment for future generations.
