Judge Strikes Down Voting Law Targeted At Towns Opposing Illegal Immigration

The New York State Supreme Court has overturned the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act (NYVRA), a law widely criticized as a tool for pushing progressive policies on local governments. The court found the law unconstitutional, ruling it violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.

The NYVRA was enacted to prevent alleged discrimination in voting practices. It required certain municipalities to gain state approval before making election system changes. However, the law became a weapon for Democrats suing towns with at-large voting systems, claiming they diluted minority voting power.

One lawsuit targeted Newburgh, where plaintiffs argued the town’s voting system disadvantaged Black and Hispanic voters. The plaintiffs demanded single-member districts, claiming this would allow minorities to elect candidates of their choice. The court dismissed this, stating the NYVRA “classifies people according to their race, color and national origin” and therefore cannot stand under the Constitution.

Mount Pleasant was also sued by Hispanic residents claiming their voting power was diluted. Observers noted the town had recently issued an emergency order refusing to accept illegal immigrants, prompting speculation that the lawsuit aimed to reverse the order. The plaintiffs argued that the Hispanic population in Sleepy Hollow, which is part of Mount Pleasant, warranted a ward-based voting system.

The court’s ruling protects towns from being forced to alter their systems under political pressure. Conservatives argue the NYVRA was less about fairness and more about advancing policies that force towns to absorb illegal migrants against their will.

This decision has been hailed as a win for local governments and constitutional governance. By striking down the NYVRA, the court reaffirmed the right of towns to manage their election systems without state interference rooted in political agendas.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR