Poll: Virginians back maps, split on gun laws

(The Center Square) – As lawmakers continue debating redistricting and firearm legislation, new polling provides a snapshot of where Virginians stand on both issues.

The results suggest voters largely favor the commonwealth’s existing redistricting framework and support several gun policy changes, though views differ on enforcement and effectiveness.

Those views come from a Roanoke College Poll conducted by the Institute for Policy and Opinion Research.

“Virginians clearly support a variety of gun control measures, but many question their efficacy,” said Dr. Harry Wilson, interim director of the Institute for Policy and Opinion Research. “While majorities back policies such as firearm registration and owner licensing, fewer respondents believe stricter laws alone will make them safer. Many also point to factors beyond gun laws when asked about the causes of mass shootings.”

Wilson said responses on redistricting suggest voters are generally comfortable with Virginia’s current system. He noted that differences between survey ...