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Corbett Expected To Sign New Congressional Map Into Law

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - Over the furious objections of some Democrats, Governor Corbett is expected to sign a bill that will redraw Pennsylvania's congressional districts. The bill was given final legislative approval Tuesday.

"I for one am excited and proud to be able to vote "yes" for this once in a decade plan," said House Majority Leader Mike Turzai, an Allegheny County Republican, not backing down in the face of withering criticism from some on the other side of the aisle.

Some Democrats, like Delaware County's Greg Vitali, blasted the new 7th Congressional District, which now snakes through parts through Berks, Lancaster, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties.

"There's no necessity to put the citizens of Upper Darby in the same congressional district as the farmers of Amish country," Vitali said.

Despite the vehemence of some in their party, a number of House Democrats voted for the plan, including more than a dozen from the Philadelphia area. The new map reflects the reduction of Pennsylvania's congressional delegation from 19 to 18.

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