Virginia Redistricting Referendum Blocked

The legal intervention follows a narrow victory for a Democratic-backed map that sought to redraw congressional boundaries mid-decade.

President Trump has alleged the vote was 'rigged,' while state Attorney General Jay Jones has vowed to file an immediate appeal to the state Supreme Court.

The ruling complicates the national battle for control of the US House, as both parties engage in aggressive gerrymandering efforts ahead of the midterm elections.

Analysts suggest this setback for Democrats in Virginia may shift the focus of the redistricting war to upcoming battles in Florida.