NYC Mayor Backs Bill Allowing Noncitizens to Vote in U.S Elections
Eric Adams supports legislation that gives voting rights 800,000 foreign nationals
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New York City's Mayor Eric Adams has thrown his support behind a recently passed bill that gives noncitizens voting rights for U.S. elections.
The newly sworn-in Democrat mayor said Saturday that he supports legislation passed by the city council that allows 800,000 foreign nationals to vote in local elections.
The support is a major U-turn for Adams after he criticized the bill while running for mayor.
"I believe that New Yorkers should have a say in their government, which is why I have and will continue to support this important legislation," Adams, who took office at the start of 2022, said in a statement.
"While I initially had some concerns about one aspect of the bill, I had a productive dialogue with my colleagues in government that put those concerns at ease.
"I believe allowing the legislation to be enacted is by far the best choice, and look forward to bringing millions more into the democratic process."
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Adams was asked about the bill on his first day in office last week.
The mayor said he was concerned about the provision stating that a noncitizen voter only had to be in the city for 30 days to qualify to vote.
The bill, known as "Our city, our vote," was approved by the city council in December and would allow roughly 800,000 to take part in local elections.
The measure, which would affect green card holders and those with work authorizations, doesn’t include state or federal elections and people in the country illegally would not be allowed to vote.
Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio expressed concerns about the bill before leaving office but did not veto it before leaving office.
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New Yorkers who spoke to Fox News last month shared mixed feelings about the bill.
"I think it's a good idea," a New Yorker in favor of the change told Fox News.
"If they're living here, but they're on a working visa, I mean, I guess they should have a say as to what's going on in the city, right?"
Another lifelong New Yorker opposed the measure, saying, "I do not agree with it.
"Why should they?
"They're not from here."
