High court orders redrawing of congressional districts again

‘This ruling permits the same Albany politicians who violated the state constitution when they gerrymandered partisan congressional districts in 2022 another chance to violate the state constitution so that they can engineer the electoral outcomes they desire.’”

BOBBIE ANNE COX, spokeswoman Stop NY Corruption

The U.S. Court of Appeals in New York state has ordered a new electoral map following a 3-4 ruling Tuesday. Now the New York Independent Redistricting Commission will have to draw new congressional lines by Feb. 28.

“Today’s redistricting decision will ensure all New Yorkers are fairly and equitably represented by elected officials,” Gov. Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James said in a joint statement. As the Court of Appeals reaffirmed today, district lines should be drawn by the Independent Redistricting Commission. We will continue our efforts to protect voting rights for all New Yorkers.”

The move is said to be favorable to Democrats in their fight to reclaim congressional seats they lost in 2022.

While many supported the decision, it has faced numerous criticisms. Bobbie Anne Cox, spokesperson for Stop NY Corruption and a Westchester County based attorney, released a statement calling the decision unprecedented and a bizarre step that endangers New York residents’ right to free and fair elections.

“This now paves the way for Albany politicians to, again, draw districts that are unconstitutional, illegal and unfair,” Cox stated Tuesday. “This ruling permits the same Albany politicians who violated the State Constitution when they gerrymandered partisan congressional districts in 2022 another chance to violate the State Constitution so that they can engineer the electoral outcomes they desire.”

The League of Women Voters of NYS urged the IRC to uphold the promise of the 2014 constitutional amendments.

“It is critical that the IRC reach consensus on a new map that complies with the constitutional requirements to avoid partisan gerrymandering, consider communities of interest and protect racial and language minority voting rights,” stated executive director of the League, Laura Bierman.

“The League strongly supported the 2014 constitutional amendment, and will closely monitor that the IRC and legislature adhere to their constitutional responsibilities in drawing and approving a new map.”