...or how to remove the worst NJ Congressman. The one who replaced Marge Roukema.
Since it seems that redistricting here in New Jersey may pit Congressmen Scott Garrett (R-05) of Wantage and Steve Rothman (D-09) of Fair Lawn against each other, I have decided to draw a fair fight district for them where each keeps roughly 50% of their old constituents. I actually like this outcome because the other possible outcome (Leonard Lance vs. Rush Holt) would risk losing one of the best Congressmen or (the more likely outcome) removing a sophomore Republican backbencher. Under a Rothman vs. Garrett map, Dems get a solid shot of beating the most offensive member of the NJ delegation.
More below the fold.
Here's my map for the new NJ-05.
It should be noted that I split no township, city, or borough.
Deviation from ideal population: -17
Approx. Number of Rothman's old constituents in the new 5th: ~360,000
Approx. Number of Garrett's old constituents in the new 5th: ~370,000
54.3% Obama / 45.7% McCain
54.3% Dem / 45.7% GOP
Although I think that this is one point to the left of what the commission may adopt, I think it is fair on two levels. It is both competitive and it has each of the combined incumbents keeping roughly half of their constituents.
As can be seen, the bulk of this new district is in Bergen County. This is where the real battle will be fought. It'll also be a great next test for the rejuvenated Bergen County Democratic Party after their victories last month.