(RALEIGH) -- As arguing continues over the most recent set of boundary lines for Congressional and legislative districts, political leaders from both sides of the aisle say a independent commission to create such districts is the way to go. Former UNC Law School Dean Gene Nichol said Democrats and Republicans have both tried to use the process to their advantage when in power.

"It is unsurprising that this partisanship would, whenever given an opening, prevail," said Nichol.  "Who among us, if offered the chance to make up new rules for the competition wouldn't try to favor the home team." Nichol added both lawmakers and the state courts have practiced partisanship when it comes to creating boundaries.

Nichol spoke Tuesday at a press conference as an effort continues to persuade the State Senate leader to consider the measure. A house bill was approved last year with support from both Republican and Democratic leaders for a non-partisan re-districting process similar to one used in Iowa.