Gov. Abigail Spanberger has championed pragmatism since taking office in Virginia, but her support for a partisan redistricting amendment has undermined her centrist brand. Democrats could gain up to four congressional seats if the referendum passes, reflecting how redistricting battles have become critical to maintaining power in the closely divided House.

Spanberger faces criticism from Republicans who label her "Governor Bait-and-Switch" after she previously stated having "no plans to redistrict Virginia." Some Democrats also express frustration that she hasn't aggressively pushed for their priorities, with one senator saying it's "hard to deliver when you're standing in the middle of the road."

The former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman won her governorship by a 15-point margin after campaigning on pocketbook issues. Despite declining poll numbers, she maintains her preference for governing over politicking, acknowledging that any elected official wants to focus on their signature issues rather than polarizing fights like redistricting.