Statement from State Senator Gustavo Rivera on S6604

"Today, I voted against a measure that would push up the primary elections to the month of August. This bill has been pushed by State Senate Republicans in an effort to diminish voter turnout by attempting to hold primaries during a month when New Yorkers are either away visiting family and friends or occupied balancing work responsibilities with providing adequate childcare while school is not in session. Voting is a right, not a privilege. As elected officials we have responsibility to ensure we enact measure that protect our voting rights, not implement roadblocks aimed at curtailing New Yorkers' ability to cast their ballot. If the true aim of Senate Republicans is to reduce our election costs and ensure absentee ballots are delivered in a timely manner to those valiantly serving abroad they would follow the Assembly in passing a measure to establish both federal and state primaries during the month of June." 

To listen to Senator Rivera's explanation of his "nay" vote on the floor of the Senate, please click this link.