Legislative Redistricting May Cost Leader a Seat | Video

Brian Howell | 9/19/2011

A legislative leader is in jeopardy of losing his seat during redistricting. The Republican plan would eliminate Senate Minority Leader Ryan Taylor`s legislative district and place him in Lansford Democrat Dave O`Connell`s district.

The two would have to run against each other to stay in the Senate. But that might not happen.

Redistricting takes place as the population shifts. The census numbers show Taylor`s district is under-populated. He just replaced O`Connell as Senate Minority leader last year...But Taylor has a higher elected office on his mind, and this might make the decision a little easier.

Senate Minority Leader Ryan Taylor has a lot on his mind these days, he`s been thinking about running for governor. Now, he`s also worried about losing his seat in the State Senate, and he blames the Republican super-majority, whom he accuses of attempting a power grab.

"Your reward for being in leadership, and speaking-up, is to, basically, have your district redrawn, and be forced into competition to retain your seat...Even though you might have just went through an election," said Taylor

Republicans say their plan is fair, and question Taylor`s timing and political motivation.

Rep. Mike Nathe, R- Bismarck, "Ryan`s comments were a bit disingenuous. We went through an exercise last month, as a committee, to make-up districts, a whole statewide plan, and as we went through it, we found that the north-central part of the state was going to be one of the biggest challenges that we had to make."

Taylor says Republican actions may fuel a possible gubernatorial bid.

"They`re going to take care of themselves, obviously, and I don`t think government functions well with this huge imbalance, and it`s almost laughable," said Taylor.

Republicans say a few of their own would be sacrificed if their plan goes through.

"Ryan`s reaction, as far as whether he`s being picked on is also wrong. There are 6 legislators that are affected by this plan. 5 Republicans, and one Democrat, meaning all 6 of those legislators would have to re-run for their seats again," said Nathe.

Republicans are quick to point out that their plan is a work in progress. They say it will probably be tweaked a little.

The Republican redistricting plan will be voted on in committee next month...and then the Legislature will decide to approve the plan during the special session this November.

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