By Trendsetter Tribune 
A New York judge has ruled that the city’s only Republican-held congressional district, represented by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, must be redrawn because its current boundaries dilute the voting power of Black and Hispanic residents.
Justice Jeffrey Pearlman cited evidence of “racially polarized voting” and a history of discrimination affecting political participation. Rather than drawing the lines himself, he ordered the state’s bipartisan Independent Redistricting Commission to submit a new map by February 6.
The district, covering Staten Island and a small part of Brooklyn, could see its lines extended into lower Manhattan, a more liberal area. Republicans are expected to appeal the decision, calling it an attempt by Democrats to seize the seat.
Democrats argue the ruling protects fair representation. Gov. Kathy Hochul emphasized that “New Yorkers in every community deserve these protections,” while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said it’s a step toward keeping communities intact.
The case comes amid a national battle over gerrymandering, with both parties redrawing maps to maintain influence in the U.S. House ahead of the midterm elections.