Democrats seek more control over referenda in New York

New York Democrats are advancing plans to amend the state constitution to allow mid-decade changes to congressional maps and to grant the Legislature authority over ballot question wording. The proposed changes aim to eliminate restrictions on partisan gerrymandering and shift control of referendum language from a bipartisan Board of Elections to legislative leaders. Critics argue the move risks politicizing the state constitution, while Democrats claim it ensures legislative priorities align with voter intentions.