Saratoga Standard

Senator Jim Tedisco and Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh have introduced a constitutional amendment aimed at safeguarding voter rights in New York's congressional special elections. The proposal seeks to embed existing state law into the New York State Constitution, ensuring that special elections are called promptly, thereby preventing political maneuvering by governors and legislative majorities.

The move comes in response to a recent bill (S.4588) from Majority Leaders that would allow the Governor to postpone the special election for New York’s 21st Congressional District until November 2025. Both Tedisco and Walsh represent parts of this district.

Under current law, when a congressional vacancy arises, the Governor has ten days to announce a special election, which must occur within 70 to 80 days. The proposed amendment aims to make this requirement constitutional, thus reducing potential manipulation of election timing for political gain.

Senator Tedisco expressed concern over attempts by the Governor and Majorities to delay representation for over 700,000 constituents. He stated: “It’s an abomination that the Governor and Majorities are attempting to disenfranchise the voices of over 700,000 of their own constituents.”

Assemblywoman Walsh criticized Albany Democrats' legislation as undermining citizens' right to representation: “Albany Democrats have introduced new legislation to delay the special election for New York’s 21st Congressional District until November."

Walsh further highlighted bipartisan support for existing laws mandating timely elections following vacancies: “This move disregards a law passed with bipartisan support in 2021."

Tedisco also pointed out historical precedents where swift action was taken during similar situations, referencing Kathy Hochul's May 2011 special election win after Chris Lee's resignation earlier that year.

The legislators argue that delaying elections serves no valid purpose and only deprives residents of necessary representation in Washington D.C., especially regarding federal benefits like Social Security and Medicare assistance.