For Immediate Release
Contact: Lauren Mannerberg, lauren@anatgerstein.com, 929-553-7702
New York, N.Y. (October 4, 2023) – Citizens Union releases the following statement from Executive Director Betsy Gotbaum following the Democratic members of the New York Independent Redistricting Commission requesting public input while awaiting a decision from the Court of Appeals on congressional districting by the Commission:
“While we always encourage any government agency or commission to solicit public feedback, it is imperative that Democratic and Republican members of the Independent Redistricting Commission collaborate going forward and speak with a unified voice. Part of the reason we are in this mess, awaiting a decision from the Court of Appeals on the congressional district lines, is because the IRC failed to come to a conclusion on the maps. Thus, the legislature drew partisan lines. These lines have been challenged in the courts.”
“Soliciting input at this time only adds to the confusion and partisanship already present in the process. We urge members of the IRC to work together in advance of the Court of Appeals decision on congressional districting to avoid unnecessary confusion and ensure a cohesive process.”
About Citizens Union
For 125 years, Citizens Union has been a force for transparency, accountability, and ethics in New York’s City and State governments. A nonpartisan organization, some of our current initiatives include a new agenda for police accountability, monitoring the City Council’s redistricting process, and increasing civic engagement. Learn more at www.citizensunion.org.
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