New York redistricting takes spotlight after census push

After a drawn-out census count supported by government, nonprofits and other groups, it’s time for the next phase: redistricting.

New York’s new redistricting commission is in the process of holding public hearings focused on various parts of the state to gather input on how congressional and state legislative seats should be redrawn. One such hearing, focused on Queens, is being held today, with others on the schedule throughout the rest of the summer.

“Communities do not have to be geographic cities or towns. If your community centers around a local house of worship … that is worth telling the commission,” the commission’s chair, David Imamura, said in a virtual press conference, according to Gotham Gazette.

The New York Independent Redistricting Commission hasn’t had a smooth start, as the state was slow to distribute allocated funding to the body and there were delays in appointing a chair. The commission’s work may also be complicated by a constitutional amendment New Yorkers will vote on in November that would adjust voting rules and other aspects of the redistricting process.