Via North Jersey dot com

Many political experts are predicting that because of stagnant population growth, New Jersey will lose one of its 13 congressional districts to another state. Many political pundits say that it will be one of the suburban districts that will get carved up. It may lead to two incumbent Republicans facing off in a June primary for the right to appear on the ballot of the November 2012 general election.

Redistricting could have even greater consequences on the state level. Several complicated court cases, specifically Bartlett v. Strickland, McNeil v. Legislative Apportionment and others, may produce a more favorable map for New Jersey Republicans. Both parties will be vying to get a “good map.” A “good map” is one that gives a particular party a better or at least a fighting chance of securing a majority in one or both houses. In 2001, Republicans got a “bad map.”

A good Republican map could result in Republican majorities in the New Jersey Senate and Assembly in 2012. With Chris Christie in the governor’s seat and Republican majorities in both houses, 2012 could make this year look like a yawner. Big changes could come to the state if Republicans can get a “good map” and win.

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