Democrats seek more control over referenda in New York

THE EMPIRE STATE STRIKES BACK: New York Democrats are advancing assertively with their strategy to engage in the national redistricting conflict.

Beyond their constitutional amendment allowing mid-decade revisions to congressional maps, Democrats are also advocating for a measure that would grant the Legislature permanent authority over the wording of ballot questions, including the anticipated 2027 redistricting referendum.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie explained that their bold approach—removing the ban on lines favoring political parties—stems from the Supreme Court’s decision, which opened up the redistricting process.

“In New York, we aim to have as much leeway in drawing districts as other states,” Heastie stated. “Expecting New York to play fair while others play aggressively is unjust.”

When asked if he will be “ruthless” in 2028’s mapmaking, Heastie responded, “I’ll play fair based on others’ actions.”

Before New York redraws its maps, voters must approve the amendment next November. The Democrats’ parallel effort to control ballot language could boost its approval chances.

The proposed bill would remove the bipartisan Board of Elections’ power to decide constitutional amendment language on ballots, allowing the Legislature to determine the wording seen by voters.

The move raises concerns that the referendum might not emphasize its potential to legalize gerrymandering, opting instead for phrases like “protect democracy.”

“They clearly have an agenda,” commented state Sen. Jack Martins, a Nassau County Republican. “We shouldn’t manipulate our state constitution for political gains.”

Currently, the attorney general’s office suggests ballot wording to the two Democratic and two Republican commissioners on the Board of Elections, who have the final say on ballot questions.

“Having both sides involved is beneficial,” said Peter Kosinski, the board’s Republican co-chair. “Our aim is to present fair, non-partisan language on ballots, which I believe the Board of Elections accomplishes.”

Democrats argue they are better suited for determining the language.

“The Legislature’s will reflects the public’s desires, unlike the evenly-split Board of Elections,” said Senate Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris. “With Democrats holding large majorities in both houses, why should Republicans have equal say in ballot proposals?”

“We believe it’s better handled by us,” Heastie concluded. — Bill Mahoney

From the Capitol

NON-DISCLOSURE PUSH: The advocacy group Lift Our Voices is launching a final push for a bill that would impose new restrictions on nondisclosure agreements.

Co-founded by Gretchen Carlson and Julie Roginsky, the group aims to transform “toxic workplace cultures.”

“New York should not silence workers,” Carlson and Roginsky declared in a joint statement. “Given that California, Washington, and New Jersey have banned NDAs that silence workplace abuse survivors, it’s time for New York to follow suit.”

The bill, which seeks to prohibit nondisclosure agreements in workplace discrimination cases, is among the numerous proposals under review in the final legislative session week. — Nick Reisman

REDISTRICTING RODEO: The redistricting amendment being pushed by New York Democrats has received approval from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

“This marks the start of our firm response to the Supreme Court’s Jim Crow-like tactics that weakened voting rights in America,” Jeffries commented. “We will ensure future elections are free and fair. The Empire State will retaliate.”

These proposed changes would allow Democrats to adopt an assertive strategy in redrawing New York’s House lines by 2028.

Jeffries has shown keen interest in his home state’s efforts to alter the redistricting process. He appointed Rochester Rep. Joe Morelle, a Democrat and former state Assembly member, to coordinate the effort with Albany lawmakers. — Nick Reisman

PACKAGING FLOPS, DATA CENTER MORATORIUM MOVES: Democratic lawmakers plan to send Gov. Kathy Hochul an omnibus measure on data centers for artificial intelligence, which includes a one-year moratorium on new projects.

The governor has expressed reservations about a statewide moratorium, which would be the first of its kind in the nation if enacted.

The measure, sponsored by state Sen. Kristen Gonzalez and Assemblymember Didi Barrett, consolidates several proposals from lawmakers to ensure data centers don’t increase energy bills for residents. It also includes requirements for a new data center rate class and labor standards.

Initially, environmental advocates and Democratic lawmakers proposed a three-year moratorium.

“Regulating hyperscale centers and determining proper artificial intelligence regulation is an existential issue,” Gonzalez remarked. “We’re making an initial step as a state without hindering innovation.”

In contrast, environmental advocates faced a setback as Heastie informed reporters that the plastics bill won’t be voted on, citing insufficient support.

Heastie reiterated this view from the previous session, though advocates argue the votes exist and that special interest lobbyists are obstructing progress.

The extended producer responsibility bill intends to transfer waste management and recycling costs from local governments to companies selling packaged goods. It was heavily lobbied last session outside of budget discussions.

Proponents hoped the bill could make up for the budget’s rollback of New York’s climate legislation. Opponents point to cost concerns ahead of an affordability-focused election.

Heastie cited cost as the primary reason for the Assembly Democrats’ hesitation. Despite having 77 co-sponsors, one more than the necessary 76 votes, Heastie expressed personal support for the bill. — Marie J. French and Mona Zhang

FROM CITY HALL

HER VIEWS THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’: Democratic socialist candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier is facing backlash for inflammatory social media posts about Joe Biden, police officers, and other topics.

However, Mamdani, who endorsed Avila Chevalier’s campaign against Rep. Adriano Espaillat last week, dismissed concerns about her past online remarks today.

“She acknowledged that many posts no longer reflect her views, and I’m thrilled to support her vision for a more affordable New York City and America,” Mamdani said at a press conference in Queens.

Most of Avila Chevalier’s controversial posts, first reported by Playbook, were made in 2020, when she was 26. Her messages included calling Biden “a rapist” and “a war criminal” and claiming Bill de Blasio “hates Black people.”

Recently surfaced tweets, reported by CNN, show Avila Chevalier advocating for the abolition of police, prisons, and borders in 2021. She also supported the seizure of all properties from landlords and the nationalization of utilities, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies.

Avila Chevalier stated she has “grown considerably” since making those posts. — Chris Sommerfeldt 

FROM THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL

CHERRY PICKING: The debate between Rep. Dan Goldman and Brad Lander has sparked an online clash.

In a social media post, Lander’s campaign shared a debate clip of Goldman saying, “I do take corporate PAC money” and “I have no problem taking money from anyone who wants to give it to me.” This was part of a longer statement where Goldman clarified he only accepts corporate PAC money in his leadership PAC for support within the Democratic Party.

Goldman explained during the debate, “I do not accept corporate PAC money for my campaign, but I do in my leadership PAC, which supports my colleagues in regaining the majority.”

Goldman responded to Lander on X, “Are you seriously suggesting we shouldn’t do everything possible to win back the majority?” He added, “If he edits out crucial parts to mislead voters, what else is he lying about?”

Goldman’s leadership PAC has received tens of thousands from corporate PACs, distributing over $100,000 to Democratic candidates and organizations since last year, according to Federal Election Commission filings.

Lander reiterated his stance: “This is why we need Democrats who reject corporate PAC money and fight for working people.” — Madison Fernandez

IN OTHER NEWS

— PAC MENTALITY: American Priorities, a super PAC opposing pro-Israel groups like AIPAC, pledged $2 million to support Democratic primary candidates Brad Lander, Darializa Avila Chevalier, and Claire Valdez. (The New York Times)

— TAKE IT FROM ME: Eric Adams met with Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, offering campaign advice for New York City and hinting at possible endorsement. (New York Post)

— CAPITOL LOSS: New data indicates population shifts in upstate New York, with Albany losing residents while Saratoga and Warren gained due to quality of life, housing, and employment factors. (Times Union)

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