Letter to the Editor: Setting the record straight on Newburgh Voting Rights Act case

To the Editor:

In his recent comments to the press regarding the Town’s settlement under the New York Voting Rights Act, Supervisor Gil Piaquadio suggested that the at-large system is sufficient and that a recent election outcome proves it works. That framing misses the larger point. The issue was never about a single result — it concerns whether the structure of the system, over time, dilutes the voting strength of Black and Hispanic residents who comprise roughly 40 percent of our town.

At-large systems have a well-documented history of enabling a majority voting bloc to control every seat, even where substantial minority communities exist. That is precisely why ward systems are recognized as a remedy: they create geographically accountable representation and ensure neighborhoods have a direct voice at Town Hall.

Ranked-choice voting may expand ballot options, but it does not change the fact that every seat would still be decided town-wide.

It is also worth noting that nearly $1.8 million in taxpayer funds were spent defending the status quo — dollars that could have strengthened services instead of resisting broader representation.

The real question is whether our structure guarantees equal opportunity consistently — not occasionally.

Respectfully,

Stephen L. Krasner

Candidate for Town Supervisor

Town of Newburgh