Senators Sherman and Perkins Kwoka Push Back on Vote to Kill Independent Redistricting Commission
Contact Name: Marina Altschiller
Phone: (603) 271-3207
CONCORD – Today, in a party line vote of 14-10, Senate Republicans voted to kill SB 80, which would have established an independent redistricting commission.
After the vote, Senator Tom Sherman (D-Rye) issued the following statement:
“Today’s vote by the Senate Republicans was a vote against fairness and transparency in government. This bill was the result of extensive bipartisan work, addressed concerns raised in previous drafts of this legislation, and in fact was previously co-sponsored by members of the majority party. An overwhelming majority of Granite Staters are appalled by the notion of rigged elections and strongly support independent redistricting. To think that the people of New Hampshire aren’t going to recognize todays’ vote as a blatant endorsement of gerrymandering by the Republican majority is an insult to our constituents. We had the opportunity today to advance our work in ensuring future elections are truly fair, free, and representative of the people of this state. Instead, the majority is happy to silence voters and do whatever it takes to stay in power, regardless of the will of the people.”
Senator Rebecca Perkins Kwoka (D-Portsmouth) added:
“This legislation would have ensured that future elections are decided by the people of New Hampshire, regardless of their political party or zip code. Today we had the opportunity to shine a light on the redistricting process and sadly, the majority didn’t answer the call for transparency and fairness for our constituents. This year, more than ever, we should each be putting the fairness and transparency of our democracy first, and protect the sacred institutions of our state."
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