New York’s highest court has made a clear decision to support a law that sets most local elections in even-numbered years to match state and federal elections. This law doesn’t apply in New York City or to certain jobs protected by the state Constitution. The court announced the unanimous decision on Thursday, according to Spectrum News 1.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement obtained by Spectrum News 1 regarding the court’s ruling, saying, “The Court of Appeals' unanimous decision to uphold New York’s even-year election law is a victory for democracy and all New Yorkers.” She noted that the legislation is intended to increase voter participation and simplify the voting process.
Republican leaders, including Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon, raised questions about the court’s impartiality and the effect of the legislative change on voter turnout and local governance. McMahon told Spectrum News 1, “This is all an experiment from New York City politicians who want to exert their influence over upstate and Long Island political races,” and voiced ongoing concerns about the legal and practical consequences of the policy change.
Citizens' Union Director of Public Policy Ben Weinberg shared with Spectrum News 1, "Today is a really important step for democracy, but it's just the first step." On the other hand, McMahon raised concerns that local races could be overshadowed during competitive state and national election cycles and questioned the projected cost savings and administrative benefits associated with the change.
The law does not apply to New York City, where a separate referendum will decide whether local elections will shift to an even-year schedule, with the possibility of a constitutional amendment being prioritized by state lawmakers, as per CBS News New York. Meanwhile, state Sen. James Skoufis dismissed the legal opposition to the law and stated that higher turnout in even-year elections will lead to local offices being decided by a more representative group of voters.
As the legal situation is finalized, some officials currently serving two-year terms will face reelection in 2026, one year earlier than originally scheduled. Upcoming local races this November will feature shortened terms to align with the new election calendar.
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