Dustin Czarny, the Democratic election commissioner in Onondaga County, said he was surprised that Katko withdrew before the district maps were finalized. Knowing that Katko is out of the picture might influence how the Democratic-controlled state legislature will set the boundaries.
“It gives the Democrats a tactical advantage,’’ he said.
Primary petition gathering is scheduled for March 1 through April 7 this year, Czarny said. The legislature is expected to approve new congressional maps before then.
Dustin M. Czarny 