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Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn faces criticism from reformers over proposed Brooklyn Democratic Party rule changes

Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, the current chair of the Brooklyn Democratic Party, is facing significant opposition from reformers who label her proposed rule changes a "power grab." The administration announced that the new rules would expand the party's executive committee from 42 to over 68 members, a move critics argue is designed to help her retain her position despite a wave of new district leaders elected in June. Reformers, including Julio Peña III, argue that the changes circumnavigate the will of the voters and silence the voices of the newly elected leaders. High-profile Democrats such as Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries have joined the opposition, with Schumer noting that the party should not change the rules in the middle of the game. Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Attorney General Letitia James also expressed their disapproval, stating that New Yorkers deserve leaders who are committed to serving their communities rather than rewriting rules to hold onto power. While Bichotte Hermelyn maintains the changes will expand representation, opponents argue the move may damage her credibility if she succeeds in keeping her seat.

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