NY GOP rips Hochul’s running mate Adrienne Adams for backing non-citizen voting

Republicans Criticize Adrienne Adams for Support of Non-Citizen Voting Rights

Republicans are strongly opposing Gov. Kathy Hochul’s running mate Adrienne Adams for her advocacy of legislation that would allow non-citizens to vote in municipal elections in New York City. Adams, who served as the head of the New York City Council, played a key role in pushing through the controversial law in 2021. The legislation aimed to grant voting rights to approximately 800,000 non-citizen residents of the Big Apple, including legal green-card holders. However, the law was later deemed unconstitutional by the state’s highest court and was overturned.

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn) expressed her disapproval, stating, “Anyone trying to dilute the voices of American citizens and advocating for non-citizens to participate in our elections has no place in any elected office.” State Republican Party Chairman Ed Cox also criticized Adams for her support of non-citizen voting, labeling it as an extreme stance.

Former Staten Island GOP city Councilman Joe Borelli predicted that Adams’ position on non-citizen voting could potentially benefit Hochul’s Republican opponent, Bruce Blakeman, who currently serves as the Nassau County executive on Long Island. Blakeman is reportedly considering selecting upstate Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino as his running mate, known for his tough-on-crime and pro-gun policies.

Despite the backlash from Republicans, Adams and the Hochul campaign have not issued a response to the criticism. In addition to backing the non-citizen voting bill, Adams also supported the city’s appeal after a Staten Island Supreme Court judge ruled the legislation unconstitutional during her tenure as council speaker.

Adams defended her stance on the issue, emphasizing the importance of empowering immigrant communities to participate in the democratic process. She expressed optimism that the court would rule in favor of the city’s appeal to uphold the voting rights of non-citizens. However, the state appeals court ultimately upheld the judge’s decision, leading to the dismissal of the law granting non-citizens the right to vote in municipal elections.