For the first time, New Jerseyans will have the chance to see and comment on proposed redistricting maps before the boundaries of the 40 legislative districts – and the inside track for control of the Legislature – are set for the next decade.

Retired judge Philip Carchman, the court-appointed 11th member of the Apportionment Commission, said Wednesday that “one dominant theme” in the testimony at the public hearings has been that maps should be available for public comment.

The final stages of the map-drawing process have drawn backlash from Republicans and progressive groups, who criticized the commission for a lack of transparency.

New Jersey’s congressional districts are about to be redrawn and the stakes are high not just for the 12 members who represent those districts, but also for the national Democratic and Republican parties.