“I think that there’s a concern that the Republican majority will lose control of the Legislature in November,” Troiano said, “and this is a pre-emptive power grab to ensure that they stay in power for the next decade until lines are redistricted again. … This is a Republican protection plan that I believe will be passed by the Legislature on May 16, which will inspire a court case where I think the people will wind up being the winners.”

Muscarella said he firmly believes the county charter requires the Legislature to redistrict this year and still appoint an advisory committee in the next legislative cycle to review and make changes to the new lines where appropriate.

Scott Brinton contributed to this story.

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