Suspend the Independent Redistricting Comission

I am writing as a concerned citizen of New York to urge you and our state legislature to take decisive action on a matter of critical importance to our democracy: redistricting reform. In 2014, New Yorkers voted to establish the Independent Redistricting Commission with the hope of curbing partisan gerrymandering and restoring public trust in our electoral process. Unfortunately, the experience following the 2020 Census has revealed deep flaws in the commission’s structure and effectiveness. The process was marred by delays, litigation, and ultimately court-imposed maps—undermining the very transparency and fairness the commission was meant to ensure. Meanwhile, many states—particularly those under Republican control—continue to engage in aggressive partisan gerrymandering, entrenching power and distorting representation. New York’s commitment to fair redistricting, while admirable, has left us politically disarmed in a national landscape where fairness is not reciprocated. Therefore, I respectfully request that you support and advocate for a constitutional amendment to be placed on the November 2025 ballot that would suspend the Independent Redistricting Commission until such time that: At least half of all U.S. states adopt similar independent redistricting reforms, or Federal legislation is enacted to standardize redistricting practices nationwide. This temporary suspension would allow New York to recalibrate its approach and ensure that our state is not unfairly disadvantaged in the national political arena. It would also send a powerful message that reform must be universal to be truly effective. I urge you to work with the legislature to introduce and pass this amendment in two successive sessions, as required by the New York Constitution, so that voters may have the opportunity to decide this issue in November. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to democratic integrity.