Per Democracy Docket: “9:12 AM: Democrats argue that the first passage of the proposed amendment was lawful because it occurred before the ‘next general election.’ The GOP argued it began when early voting opened, an ironic departure from their SCOTUS arguments when they suggested Election Day refers to just one day.”

Per Democracy Docket: “9:10 AM: At the outset, several justices sound skeptical of two Democratic arguments: 1. The special session was valid despite the procedural arguments Republicans have raised against it 2. It’s a problem for the courts to overrule the will of voters This could suggest challenges ahead for Dems…Justices are asking whether the special session ends with the convening of the general legislative session. For this redistricting plan to pass, the amendment must be passed by two consecutive sessions. The question now is whether the first passage during the special session counts.”

Per Sam Shirazi: “My initial take on Virginia Supreme Court oral arguments Some Justices don’t view Yes vote as determinative and have technical questions about process. This was expected and what their previous order said. Still need 4 out of 7 Justices to get a majority either way. A couple Justices testing lawyer for Yes side. Other Justices are not asking many questions. Perhaps trying to sway their colleagues Suggest Court is divided on the issue and wouldn’t be surprised by split opinion”
Now Seligman is being questoned about special sessions vs. regular sessions; “next” general