Incumbents, hands down. The majority party in each house raised more than twice the minority party. Lastly, the impact of special interests on the electoral process cannot be overstated. Redistricting offers each party the opportunity to garner more political power, and the way campaigns are financed virtually guarantees victory for incumbents. A road map to reform Competitive elections are the lifeblood of democracy.
Competitive elections stimulate voter interest in elections and in policy issues.
The current method of redistricting and campaign finance smothers electoral competition and endangers democracy in New York State. With unprecedented advances in technology, citizens now have the capability to participate in the process - but only if lawmakers cooperate. Also, lawmakers should issue draft district lines well in advance of the June 2002 deadline, so that citizens may have time to consider and comment on them. New York State's redistricting process is incredibly partisan. Both houses agree to the other's plan, and the legislation is sent to the governor for his approval.