Virginia Voters Will Face Two Amendments in November 2026

Catholic leaders are urging voters to oppose two constitutional amendments on the ballot this November.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Catholicism

Virginia Voters Will Face Two Amendments in November 2026

Live Poll

Do you support the proposed constitutional amendments on your state ballot this November?

Virginia voters will decide on two constitutional amendments regarding abortion and marriage in November 2026. Catholic leaders have launched a campaign urging residents to vote against both measures.

Why it matters

Church officials claim that the proposed amendments conflict with Catholic teachings on life and marriage. They also express concern that these changes could potentially threaten religious liberty within the state.

The proposed abortion amendment would recognize the practice as a fundamental right, while the marriage amendment seeks to remove language defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman. This current definition has remained in the constitution despite being unenforceable since 2015.

The players

Diocese of Arlington

This is a regional Catholic administrative body that has launched a public campaign urging voters to reject two specific ballot amendments.

The details

The Diocese of Arlington has initiated a Catholics Vote No campaign to organize opposition to the ballot measures. Church leaders are hosting public forums, including one at the Basilica of St. Mary in Alexandria, to encourage congregants to advocate against the amendments within their personal networks.

1786: The Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom was enacted.
2015: The Supreme Court recognized same-sex marriage in Obergefell v. Hodges.
September 18, 2026: Early voting began in Virginia.
November 2026: Virginia voters will decide on the two constitutional amendments.

Culture Shift

The Catholic opposition campaign marks a modern test of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom as voters weigh the role of faith in constitutional matters. This movement highlights an ongoing debate regarding how that 1786 document interacts with modern ballot initiatives concerning social issues.

Virginia residents can now cast their ballots early to determine the future of these constitutional provisions. Voters are encouraged to participate in local church forums to better understand the potential regulatory effects of the proposed changes on state law.

The takeaway

The upcoming election serves as a significant moment for voters to shape the constitutional framework of the state regarding sensitive social issues. Citizens should review the full text of both amendments to understand how they may alter current legal definitions and fundamental rights.