By Keegan Gibson, Managing Editor
Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi’s office released its updated map of new Pa. Senate districts Wednesday evening. The most dramatic change from the earlier draft is a reshaped 15th district, which no longer has the controversial horseshoe shape.
You can view the updated map here. Given Chairman Stephen McEwen’s previous decision to choose the Senate GOP’s map, it’s likely that this will be the final version. Additionally, it reduces the overall number of county splits (full list of changes here).
The 15th district drew by far the most fire from editorial boards and critics around the state. It appeared to be a clear cut example of gerrymandering to shore up Senator Jeff Piccola, whose support of the Harrisburg takeover legislation made him a top target for Democrats. However, Piccola’s unexpected decision to retire opened up more options for the GOP.
It’s unclear who the map drawers could have in mind to run for Piccola’s seat. The new seat is highly favorable to Republicans, but only two of the area’s dozen Pa. House members reside inside the new district: John Payne of Hummelstown and Seth Grove of Dover.
Correction: five Pa. House incumbents live within the boundaries of the new 15th Senate district:
- Keith Gillespie (Hellam Township, York County)
- Seth Grove (Dover Township, York County)
- Ron Marsico (Lower Paxton Township, Dauphin County)
- John Payne (Derry Township, Dauphin County)
- Will Tallman (Reading Township, Adams County)
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5 Responses
This is real shame for the residents of Adams County. While we are one of the fastest growing counties, we are still one of the smallest. To divide us into 3 Senate districts is a travesty. Shame on the gerrymandering Republican Party for their blatant disregard for true representation. Yup, Republican politics as usual.
When are we going to see the final House map? Hopefully before it is voted upon??
And the gerrymandering remains.
I would say the 35th District is much worse – All of Bedford & Cambria then slivers of Clearfield and Clinton Counties. That district runs almost from the bottom of the state to the top.
“It appeared to be a clear cut example of gerrymandering”
… Um… there’s no “appear” about it. Clear cut.