Progressive Democrats who won their congressional primaries in New York City could have very short tenures in Congress if elected, as redistricting efforts take shape.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., aims to redraw New York’s congressional districts in 2028 to secure additional Democratic seats. Any such changes could impact districts held by far-left lawmakers or sought by the party’s newer nominees.
New York has a constitutional amendment on the ballot for voters to approve map redrawing.
A proposed 2022 redistricting map would shift the district for former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander into a more conservative Staten Island area, while Assemblywoman Claire Valdez’s district would lose its northern portion.
“There will be new lines in 2028 and, generally speaking, the newer members are the most at risk,” said Chris Coffey, CEO of Tusk Strategies.
Gustavo Gordillo, co-chair of the Democratic Socialists of America’s New York City chapter, warned that altering districts sought by Lander and Valdez could create unintended consequences. “Claire Valdez is already basically a packed DSA district, so if they change that district very much, it suddenly makes any neighboring district easier terrain for us,” he said, referencing Lander’s district.
“I’m curious to see how they navigate that.”
Jeffries has not detailed his redistricting plans but has been adamant about using the process to counter Republican-led efforts. A spokesperson, Justin Chermol, stated: “Leader Jeffries is focused on passing the constitutional amendment to ensure New York has a fair and competitive congressional map that can help stop the nationwide MAGA power grab in places like Florida and Texas, and create additional opportunities to elect House Democrats in 2028 and beyond.”
Jeffries would work with the New York State Democratic Party and state Legislature to redraw the maps. However, both the state Senate and Assembly have recently shifted leftward.
“I don’t know about anyone else, but the Senate is not interested in using redistricting to take sides in a civil war,” said state Sen. Michael Gianaris, D-Astoria.
