Media Statement: Buffalo Charter Review Commission Votes to Advance Review of Open Primaries, Ranked Choice Voting, and Ballot Access

4.14.26

Unite New York

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 14, 2026

MEDIA STATEMENT

Buffalo, NY — On Monday, the Buffalo Charter Revision Commission voted 7-2 to pass a resolution committing to exploring open primaries, ranked choice voting, and expanded ballot access. The resolution ensures that the Commission will give substantial consideration to these reforms following public comment from residents, advocates, and stakeholders.

“Unite NY and the Western New York Ranked Choice Voting Coalition applaud the Commission’s vote to pass this resolution,” said Anthony Thomas, executive director of Unite NY. “Buffalo voters deserve an electoral system that works for them, not career politicians.”

Unite NY and the Western New York Ranked Choice Voting Coalition look forward to supporting the Commission as it explores these potential improvements to Buffalo’s democracy.

CONTACT:
Anthony Thomas, Executive Director, Unite NY
anthony.thomas@uniteny.org

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About Unite NY
Unite NY is an organization dedicated to giving voters more voice and more choice in New York elections. By advancing common-sense reforms like open primaries, term limits, and ballot initiatives, Unite NY seeks to build a stronger, fairer, and more accountable democracy for all New Yorkers.