Judge Strikes Down NY Local Election Law

A New York law aimed at moving local elections to even-numbered years to coincide with state and federal elections was struck down by state Supreme Court Justice Gerard Neri. The law, supported by Democrats and signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, was intended to reduce voter confusion and increase turnout. However, Republicans and several counties argued it was unconstitutional and designed to give Democrats an electoral advantage by aligning local elections with higher turnout years. Justice Neri's ruling emphasized that the law violated the state constitution by infringing on counties' rights to control their own affairs. Critics of the law also noted that it would overshadow local issues during presidential and gubernatorial election years. The decision is expected to be appealed, as Democrats maintain the law's intent was to enhance voter participation.