New York judge calls GOP-held House district 'unconstitutional,' orders new map
Source: The Hill
01/21/26 5:32 PM ET
A New York judge ruled Wednesday that Rep. Nicole Malliotakis’s (R-N.Y.) congressional district was unconstitutionally configured and ordered the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission to create a new map ahead of the 2026 midterms. Acting New York state Supreme Court Justice Jeffrey Pearlman, an appointee of Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), ordered the independent commission to redraw a new map by Feb. 6.
The decision is a major win for Democrats after a handful of New York voters filed a lawsuit in October alleging that New York’s 11th Congressional District disenfranchises Black and Latino voters in the district. “Black and Latino Staten Islanders have less opportunity than other members of the electorate to elect a representative of their choice and influence elections in New York’s 11th Congressional District,” violating the New York Constitution, the plaintiffs alleged in the court filing.
The congressional district, which includes Staten Island and some of southern Brooklyn, handily went for President Trump in 2024 by more than 24 points, according to The Downballot. A new House map, however, could offer Democrats a strong opportunity to add a pickup opportunity in the House. While the Independent Redistricting Commission is tasked with drawing the maps, they’re ultimately subject to approval from the Democratic-controlled state legislature.
Elias Law Group, which was involved in the lawsuit challenging the New York House map, celebrated Pearlman’s decision in a statement, hailing it as a “victory” for all voters in the district.
Read more: https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5699912-ny-judge-rules-redistricting-unconstitutional/
Link to Democracy Docket (Marc Elias) PRESS RELEASE - New York court strikes down congressional map, potentially handing Dems another seat
Congrats to Marc and his team! Any seat we can get!!
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Jeffrey Pearlman.. and Elias Law Group. 