TL/DR –
New York Governor, Kathy Hochul, is considering redrawing New York’s congressional district lines, a move that is supported by top Democratic legislative leaders. The move comes after Texas state Democrats left Texas to prevent a vote on a mid-decade redistricting plan, which could see five more Republicans go to Washington after the 2026 midterm elections. When asked if New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission should be disbanded or changed to expedite the redistricting process, Hochul agreed.
New York Governor, Kathy Hochul, joined by Texas state house Democrats, announced on Monday that she is evaluating all alternatives to rework the state’s congressional district boundaries. This move, in response to the mid-decade redistricting plan pursued by President Trump, seeks to prevent the potential addition of five more Republican seats after the 2026 midterm elections.
Six Texas Democrats, in Albany to ward off a \”blatant power grab\” by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and President Trump, backed Hochul on this strong stance. Texas’ Democrats have left their state to obstruct a vote on the controversial redistricting plan that could challenge Democratic majority.
Hochul criticized the redistricting proposal, claiming it contravenes normal protocol. \”Redistricting mid-decade is an unprecedented move to grasp power and inflict more pain,\” she said. She confirmed that state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins are supportive of exploring redistricting in New York.
The Governor stated that a legislative process is underway and legal strategies are under review. She added, \”We’re prepared to do everything we can to stop this audacious attack. The gloves are off.”
Hochul recently demonstrated willingness to consider mid-decade redistricting, following California Governor Gavin Newsom. However, navigating state laws governing independent commissions and gerrymandering remains a hurdle.
When questioned on the possible disbanding or modification of New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission to expedite the redistricting process, Hochul firmly responded with a \”yes.\”
Addressing the Republicans, Hochul stated, \”We’re in charge and weary of being bullied.\” Texas state Rep. Mihaela Plesa, present at the Monday press conference, warned that the redistricting battle won’t limit itself to Texas.
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