Story perspectives

Court Rules Staten Island District Unconstitutional; Democrats Redraw

1/27/2026

Center

Democrats Redraw District

A court ruled the Staten Island district unconstitutional, prompting Democrats to redraw to include more diverse Manhattan areas.
The Staten Island seat has changed hands only twice since 1980, reflecting past court rejections of gerrymandering.
Despite critics' claims that the redraw manipulates demographics, Assemblyman Charles Fall defends the plan as constitutional.

Left

Pearlman Rules Disenfranchisement

Justice Jeffrey H. Pearlman ruled that New York's 11th Congressional District disenfranchises Black and Latino voters, prompting Democrats to push a redistricting effort.
He directed the state to reconvene its Independent Redistricting Commission to redraw the maps by February 6.
Republican representatives, including Nicole Malliotakis, may appeal the ruling.
Justice Pearlman rejected calls to recuse himself, stating there was no conflict of interest.

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Democrats Redraw District

A court ruled the Staten Island district unconstitutional, prompting Democrats to redraw to include more diverse Manhattan areas.
The Staten Island seat has changed hands only twice since 1980, reflecting past court rejections of gerrymandering.
Despite critics' claims that the redraw manipulates demographics, Assemblyman Charles Fall defends the plan as constitutional.

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