STATEMENT FROM ASSEMBLY MINORITY LEADER ED RA ON TODAY’S VOTE TO UNDERMINE FAIR REDISTRICTING IN NY

“The redistricting amendment passed today is a shameless power grab with the sole intention of erasing Republican seats in Congress. Kathy Hochul and her allies will claim this is in response to activity in other states, but in reality, New York Democrats have never needed their arms twisted to tilt election laws in their favor. 

This is their fourth attempt—and most brazen—at manipulating the state’s election system to maximize their partisan advantage. What Albany Democrats passed tonight has nothing to do with fair elections, competitive districts, or the will of the people. 

New York established clear redistricting rules, an Independent Redistricting Commission, and constitutional safeguards to ensure the map-drawing process isn’t hijacked by political self-interest. With today’s vote, Democrats rejected that system and abandoned all semblance of independence and neutrality. 

Regardless of how Democrats portray their actions today, New Yorkers should see it for what it is: A corrupt effort by New York Democrats to steal control from the electorate and assume more for themselves. Republicans will fight this every step of the way. When New York voters have the opportunity, they should summarily reject it.”