New York’s highest court has issued an order for the state to redraw congressional districts ahead of the 2024 elections, potentially favoring Democrats in a battleground for control of the U.S. House. The court’s decision comes after a legal challenge halted the Democrats’ map, leading the Court of Appeals to rule that the state didn’t follow the correct procedure in adopting the maps. Instead, the court appointed an independent expert to draw new district lines, contributing to Republicans flipping seats in the New York City suburbs and gaining control of the House in 2022.
Last year, Democrats filed a lawsuit to prevent the use of the 2022 maps in 2024, arguing that the court-drawn map was intended for a single election, and the bipartisan redistricting commission should have another opportunity to create the maps. Republicans contend that the districts are politically balanced and should not be discarded.
The battle over redistricting in New York is crucial as both parties dedicate significant resources to gain or retain seats in the upcoming elections. Democrats are focused on regaining control of districts in New York, while Republicans aim to maintain their positions, emphasizing issues like crime and migration to appeal to suburban voters. The decision from the Court of Appeals adds another layer of complexity to the redistricting process in the state. Ken Jenkins, Chair of the New York State Independent Redistricting Commission, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision and looks forward to working with colleagues to implement redistricting reforms.