In a move that could only make sense in the topsy-turvy world of New York politics, the state’s highest court is now deliberating whether noncitizens should have the right to vote in city elections. Yes, you heard that correctly. The same city that can’t seem to figure out how to keep its streets safe or its subways running on time now wants to hand over the reins of local democracy to individuals who aren’t even citizens.

This all started back in 2021 when the New York City Council, in its infinite wisdom, passed a law allowing noncitizens with green cards or work authorizations to vote in municipal elections. The idea was to give a voice to the estimated 800,000 noncitizens residing in the city. Because, apparently, the opinions of actual citizens just aren’t enough anymore.

Predictably, this didn’t sit well with everyone. Opponents argued that allowing noncitizens to vote dilutes the value of citizenship and could lead to conflicts of interest. After all, if you’re not a citizen, where do your loyalties lie?

The legal battles were swift. In June 2022, a state Supreme Court justice struck down the law, declaring it violated the New York State Constitution, which explicitly grants voting rights to citizens. The Appellate Division upheld this decision in February 2024. But the City Council, not one to back down from a questionable decision, filed an appeal to the state’s highest court.

Now, the Court of Appeals is set to hear arguments on this contentious issue. If the court sides with the City Council, more than 800,000 noncitizens could become eligible to vote in city elections, potentially reshaping New York’s political landscape. Because nothing says ‘democracy’ like letting people who haven’t pledged allegiance to the country decide who runs your city.

Supporters of the law argue that noncitizens contribute to the city’s economy and should have a say in local matters that affect their daily lives. They claim it’s about inclusivity and recognizing the contributions of immigrants. But here’s a thought: if you want to vote, why not take the steps to become a citizen? It’s not an unreasonable expectation.

Critics, on the other hand, see this as a slippery slope. Today it’s municipal elections; tomorrow, who knows? State and federal elections? Why not let tourists vote while we’re at it? After all, they spend money in the city too.

The timing of this legal battle is particularly interesting, given the national conversation on immigration and voting rights. With President Trump’s administration taking a firm stance on these issues, the outcome of this case could have implications far beyond the five boroughs.

In the end, this isn’t just about who gets to cast a ballot. It’s about the value we place on citizenship and the responsibilities that come with it. Voting is a privilege that should be reserved for those who have committed themselves to this country, not just anyone who happens to live here. But in New York, it seems, common sense is as rare as a clean subway car during rush hour.