The Brian Lehrer Show Answering the Texas Redistricting Strategy
Jul 31, 2025
Michael Gianaris, New York State Senate Deputy Majority Leader, and Micah Lasher, Assemblymember from Manhattan's Upper West Side, tackle the implications of Texas' off-cycle redistricting. They discuss a proposed New York constitutional amendment for mid-decade redistricting to counteract Texas’ partisan strategy. The conversation dives into the complexities of fair representation, the urgent need for proactive measures in New York, and the evolving dynamics of political campaigning and accountability. Their insights shed light on the future of congressional power.
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Redistricting War Between States
- Texas is attempting a mid-decade redistricting to add five Republican seats before the 2024 midterm elections.
- New York Democrats propose a state constitutional amendment to allow similar off-cycle redistricting if other states do so first.
NY vs Texas Redistricting Processes
- New York uses an independent redistricting commission, unlike Texas, where partisan redistricting is easier.
- New York's proposal triggers only if another state acts first, preserving fairness internally while responding to partisan moves externally.
More States May Join Redistricting
- Besides Texas, states like Missouri and Florida may also pursue mid-decade redistricting.
- Democrats need to counteract these moves now to protect fair representation in upcoming election cycles.