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On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a slew of charges against Virginia State Sen. Louise Lucas (D), a critic of President Donald Trump and a proponent of redistricting that was attempted earlier this year in response to overtly partisan GOP gerrymandering efforts elsewhere in the country.

The DOJ indictment includes charges of racketeering, money laundering, and unlawful marijuana distribution. Six individuals were charged along with Lucas, including some members of her family.

Lucas, the president pro tempore of the Virginia Senate, has denied the charges levied against her, claiming they were issued for political reasons.

“I grew up under Jim Crow. I’ve seen what happens when people in power try to silence those who stand up to them. I spent my life fighting back, and I’m not stopping now,” she said in a statement posted to X.

pic.twitter.com/hKT5NbUXpa— L. Louise Lucas (@SenLouiseLucas) October 22, 2026

pic.twitter.com/hKT5NbUXpa

“I will not be intimidated. I will not be bullied. And I will not back down,” Lucas added.

Thwarted in Courts, Trump DOJ Increases Pressure on States to Obtain Voter Rolls

Generally, to avoid the appearance of partisanship, the DOJ will not issue charges against politicians within a 60-day window of elections. However,........

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