New York Democrats have advanced a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow lawmakers to draw new congressional maps for the 2028 election cycle, potentially yielding additional seats for the party. The amendment would eliminate the state's ban on partisan gerrymandering.
This legislative action by New York Democrats aims to counter Republican advantages in redistricting nationwide and could significantly shift the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives by creating more favorable districts for the party in future elections.
New York Democrats have initiated the process to redraw the state's congressional map for the 2028 election cycle, a move that could potentially secure additional U.S. House of Representatives seats for the party. The state Senate and Assembly, both controlled by Democrats, have advanced a proposed constitutional amendment that would permit lawmakers to bypass the independent redistricting commission and create new, more advantageous district lines. This amendment requires legislative approval again in 2027 and subsequent voter approval in a referendum before the 2028 elections. Notably, the amendment would remove New York's existing prohibition on partisan gerrymandering. Currently, Democrats hold 19 of the state's 26 U.S. House seats, and analysts suggest a revised map could add up to four seats. Governor Kathy Hochul and U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have encouraged state lawmakers to act decisively in response to Republican redistricting efforts nationwide, particularly following a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that weakened the Voting Rights Act. New York is anticipated to be among multiple states planning new maps ahead of the 2028 elections.