New York is a state that is known for its diversity, culture, and progressive values. But which city in New York is the most liberal of them all? According to a recent study by WalletHub, the answer is Ithaca.
How the Study Was Conducted
WalletHub, a personal finance website, ranked 182 U.S. cities based on 35 indicators of political and social liberalism. These indicators included factors such as voter participation, campaign contributions, LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, environmentalism, and health care access. The study used data from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, the Federal Election Commission, the Human Rights Campaign, and the Trust for Public Land.
Why Ithaca Is the Most Liberal City in New York
Ithaca, a small city in the Finger Lakes region, scored 76.04 out of 100 on WalletHub’s liberal index, making it the 11th most liberal city in the nation and the most liberal city in New York. Ithaca outperformed other New York cities such as New York City (ranked 15th), Albany (ranked 28th), and Rochester (ranked 31st).
Some of the reasons why Ithaca is so liberal are:
1.) It is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, two prestigious and progressive institutions that attract students and faculty from around the world.
2.) It has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with festivals, museums, theaters, and galleries that celebrate diversity and creativity.
3.) It has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with initiatives such as the Ithaca Green New Deal, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, and the Ithaca Community Gardens, which provide organic food and education to residents.
4.) It has a history of social activism, with movements such as the Ithaca Tenants Union, which advocates for renters’ rights, and the Ithaca Sanctuary Alliance, which supports immigrants and refugees.
Conclusion
Ithaca is a city that embraces liberalism in its politics, society, and culture. It is a place where people of different backgrounds, beliefs, and identities can coexist and thrive. It is the most liberal city in New York, and one of the most liberal cities in the country.