Redrawing New York's Congressional Districts
The state Court of Appeals has ordered an independent redistricting commission to redraw New York's congressional districts. This decision, made on Tuesday afternoon, has national implications and could potentially impact which party controls the House of Representatives.
The ruling throws a monkey wrench into the 2024 congressional races in New York. The six freshman Republicans who won last time may have to run in new district lines that are less favorable, potentially giving Democrats an advantage in taking back control of the House. Currently, the New York Congressional Delegation consists of 15 Democrats and 11 Republicans. If all six freshmen lose and everything else remains the same next November, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries could become speaker.
The outcome of the redistricting process will determine the most vulnerable New York congressmen. Mike Lawler of Rockland County, Anthony D'Esposito of Long Island, and Marc Molinaro of Dutchess County are among those who could be affected.
Former congressman Tom Suozzi, a Democrat running to replace the expelled George Santos, is also at risk of having his district redrawn to add more likely Democrat voters.
Republicans are seething with anger while Democrats are ecstatic over the latest ruling.
"I believe this is the epitome of corruption. Last year, we had a decision that overturned the Democrats' attempt to manipulate New York's maps and violate the Constitution. And because they didn't get the outcome they wanted, they decided to try again," said Lawler.
"This is what the court should have said last year. If they felt the process was incomplete, they should have simply ordered the commission to complete the job, not take it away entirely and have lines drawn by a special master from another state. That was an absurd outcome from the start. I'm relieved that things are finally being set right," said state Sen. Michael Gianaris, a Democrat representing Queens.
New York GOP Chair Ed Cox and House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik from upstate New York have suggested the possibility of further legal action, stating that they "will not give up the fight against gerrymandering."
The commission has until Feb. 28 to complete its work.
Please continue to follow CBS2, CBS News New York, and CBSNewYork.com for further updates on this developing story.
