New York's Republican congressional representatives are clashing with Democratic state leaders over potential delays in the special election to replace Rep. Elise Stefanik, who is expected to be confirmed as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. The six GOP lawmakers have threatened to involve the Department of Justice if any legislative maneuvers violate federal law.

In a letter spearheaded by Reps. Mike Lawler and Nick Langworthy, the Republicans accuse Democratic leaders of "corrupt and undemocratic" political gamesmanship aimed at reducing Republican representation in the House. They've demanded an end to any attempts to change existing election law and warned they will alert the DOJ.

The letter, also signed by Reps. Nicole Malliotakis, Nick LaLota, Andrew Garbarino, and Claudia Tenney, echoes House Speaker Mike Johnson's condemnation of the alleged scheme as "open political corruption." Johnson emphasized the potential disenfranchisement of over 750,000 constituents in New York's 21st Congressional District.

Reports indicate that state Senate and Assembly members discussed rule changes that could postpone the special election until June. This move, purportedly to save resources, would leave Stefanik's seat vacant for months, even after her anticipated confirmation. Stefanik's departure, along with that of Rep. Mike Waltz, has narrowed the GOP's House majority, making it vulnerable to requiring Democratic support for legislation.

The Republican representatives argue that any delay contradicts constitutional requirements for filling House vacancies and Supreme Court precedent. They liken the potential delay to previous controversies surrounding New York elections, such as gerrymandering attempts. They also cited a 2009 New York State Court of Appeals ruling emphasizing the need for special elections to be held as quickly as possible.

While Florida Governor Ron DeSantis promptly scheduled special elections for April to fill Rep. Waltz's seat, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has remained silent on the matter. Under current New York law, Hochul has a limited timeframe to call a special election after Stefanik's resignation. The proposed rule change would align the special election with the June primary, a move the GOP representatives dismiss as a pretext for political maneuvering.

The Republican representatives urged Hochul to uphold current election laws and ensure timely representation for the constituents of the 21st Congressional District. Fox News Digital has contacted Hochul's office, as well as the offices of New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and state Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, for comment.