Allen: Debate with Spanberger on redistricting amendment not too much to ask

(The Center Square) – A former Virginia governor is pressing for a public debate with the incumbent on a proposed redistricting amendment as Virginians are already casting ballots ahead of the April 21 special election.

Former Gov. George Allen, a Republican who served from 1994 to 1998 and later as a U.S. senator, is urging Gov. Abigail Spanberger to participate in a one-hour virtual debate. Allen is part of the group No Gerrymandering Virginia, which opposes the amendment.

“I don’t think it’s too much to ask for one honest virtual debate for the people,” Allen said told The Center Square in an interview Monday afternoon.

Allen said he previously requested multiple debates and recently renewed the invitation, calling for a public discussion where voters can hear both sides of the issue.

The language used has been criticized. According to the Department of Elections, the ballots say, “Question: Should the Constitution of Virginia be amended to allow the General Ass...