New York Democrats To Benefit From Congressional Districts They Drew

New York state lawmakers will vote this week on a set of congressional maps that would boost the Democratic Party’s chances of winning additional seats, though Republicans are threatening to challenge the lines in court.

The state legislature’s redistricting task force – controlled entirely by Democrats for the first time in modern history – unveiled its proposed maps on Sunday, clearing the way for a full vote as soon as Wednesday and putting the Democratic Party in an advantageous position to make gains. It is the first time in a century Democrats have had this much say over redistricting.

The proposal was required to reduce New York’s congressional delegation from 27 to 26, based on the latest Census numbers. And it was put forward after a more-independent panel reached impasse, paving the way for lawmakers to draw the lines themselves.

If approved, 22 of the state’s 26 congressional districts would have a Democratic enrollment advantage – a gain of three that could help the party potentially pick up seats as it clings to a narrow House majority nationally.

Morning Edition host Kerry Nolan spoke to WNYC Albany reporter Jon Campbell to discuss the latest and what it could mean for the 2022 elections.

For more, visit Gothamist.com.