New York, N.Y. (October 16, 2025) – Citizens Union today issued the following statement from Executive Director Grace Rauh in response to the New York Court of Appeals’ unanimous decision upholding the state law moving most county and town elections to even-numbered years:

“We are pleased that the Court of Appeals has unanimously upheld New York’s Even Year Elections Law. This ruling will strengthen local democracy by giving voters in counties and towns across the state a greater voice in municipal government. Starting next year, we anticipate much higher rates of turnout in many of these elections, raising the visibility of local issues and drawing a new generation of voters to local civic participation.

“Although the case centered on the nature and application of Home Rule, the Court also affirmed that moving local elections to even years ‘imposes no form of restriction, burden, or limitation on voting.’ Moreover, there are clear and well-documented benefits of consolidating elections: greater engagement from young people and communities of color, reduced voter fatigue and costs, and more representative outcomes that better reflect the will of all New Yorkers.

“This is an important victory for voters and for our democracy – but it’s just the first step. In the coming weeks, New York City voters have the opportunity to extend the same democratic benefits to the five boroughs by voting YES on Proposal 6 to consolidate city elections. This will send a clear message to Albany that voters demand a stronger local democracy – we look forward to helping secure its passage.”