Adams Ends up Supporting City Council’s Bill that Allow Non-Citizens to Vote in City Elections

By Yehudit Garmaise

Mayor Eric Adams, who previously “had some questions” about recent City Council legislation that will give voting rights in city elections to 800,000 New Yorkers who are not American citizens, has now decided that he will support the bill.

“While I initially had some concerns about one aspect of the bill, I had a productive dialogue with my colleagues in government that put those concerns at ease,” Mayor Adams said today. “I believe that New Yorkers should have a say in their government, which is why I have and will continue to support this important legislation.”

The City Council’s “Our City, Our Vote” bill allows “legally documented, voting-age noncitizens who have lived in New York for at least one month,” to vote in city elections.

New Yorkers who have “legal documentation,” are those who hold green cards and are considered “lawful permanent residents,” who work, pay taxes, and can volunteer to serve in the military in the US, although they are not US residents.

After demonstrating considerable evidence that they have lived in the US for one to five years continuously and have established their good moral character, green card holders can apply for US citizenship.

“I believe allowing the legislation to be enacted is by far the best choice and look forward to bringing millions more into the democratic process,” Mayor Adams said.

City Councilman Kalman Yeger, however, who voted against the measure said today on Twitter, “The courts will strike down this unconstitutional and preempted law before a single vote is cast.

“NYS Constitution and Election Law are absolutely clear: U.S. citizenship is a requirement for voting in New York.”