Secession Of Staten Island

Attempts have been made to secede from New York City previously. Mamdani’s election may prove to be an accelerant. One state senator plans to pursue the possibility. (HT: Fred)

There are at least a couple of hitches, however.

First, the population of Staten Island is changing demographically– and very rapidly. There are many more Asians than there used to be. Accordingly, the borough might turn out to be less conservative politically and less likely to vote to secede.

Second, the city of New York showers its employees with lavish pay and benefits. In addition, it offers residents lavish welfare benefits. It would be very difficult for an independent Staten Island to maintain those at current levels.

If you look at Staten Island on the map, it appears geographically to fit better with the state of New Jersey than with New York state. The island has become a highly congested mess, however.

Addendum:

Ken Burns’ American Revolution on PBS last night discussed at length the war as it took place in the region of New York City. It discussed British warships hovering off Staten Island at least a couple of times. In addition, it discussed Ben Franklin meeting with the British Admiral Howe on Staten Island to discuss the possibility of ending the war. This occurred at the Conference House on the southern tip of the island which has been restored and is now open for tours. John Adams and Edward Rutledge also participated in that meeting.