They realize that the dismantling of the VRA is going to wreck them in a complete reversal of fortune. The magnitude of that court ruling cannot be understated, it will be absolutely a pivotal point in the election process and balance of power of this country.
I've read that if the Red southern states all redistrict it could be up to 19 seats favoring the GOP. Add to that if the Virginia effort fails in court, that margin will be even greater. Since most of the Blue states are already gerrymandered to the hilt, their leverage is alot less.
They are now extremely desperate and flailing, and their paymasters aren't happy. And if things keep swinging our way, the hits will just keep on coming.