A state judge in Orange County has ruled that New York's Voting Rights Act of 2022 is unconstitutional, striking down a law that aimed to address electoral divisions and voting rules that marginalized minority groups. The decision by Justice Maria Vazquez-Doles came in response to a lawsuit filed by six Black and Hispanic voters against the Town of Newburgh.
The lawsuit challenged the town's election process, arguing that the existing at-large voting system prevented minority residents from electing their preferred candidates. The plaintiffs sought a district-based election system to ensure fair representation.
New York's Voting Rights Act allowed voters to challenge at-large elections that resulted in racially polarized voting or hindered minority groups from gaining political representation. However, Justice Vazquez-Doles deemed this provision unconstitutional, citing a violation of the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause.
The ruling echoes the U.S. Supreme Court's stance on affirmative action, emphasizing the need for a compelling state interest to justify race-based actions. The judge noted that the New York law lacked requirements for demonstrating past discrimination and determining the threshold for voting power dilution.
The decision to strike down the law has sparked controversy, with the plaintiffs expressing intent to appeal. Supporters of the Voting Rights Act argue that it was crucial for combating discrimination and ensuring equitable electoral processes.
New York's law was part of a broader effort by Democratic-led states to safeguard voting rights amid concerns over restrictive measures in Republican-controlled states. State Senator Zellnor Myrie, a sponsor of the legislation, criticized the court's decision and expressed confidence in a successful appeal.
As the legal battle continues, the fate of New York's Voting Rights Act remains uncertain, raising questions about the balance between protecting minority rights and upholding constitutional principles.
