Jerry H. Goldfeder

Senior Counsel

Recent News:

Jerry Goldfeder Selected to Receive New Democratic Dimensions 2024 Liberty Award

Jerry Goldfeder, a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation Department, has been selected to receive the New Democratic Dimensions Liberty Award.

Jerry boasts a 40-year career concentrating on election law and voting rights. His extensive practice involves representing various high-profile candidates and elected officials, including mayors, governors, and several candidates for president of the United States. He has also provided legal counsel to members of the U.S. Congress, the New York State Legislature, New York's City Council, judiciary members, unions, not-for-profits, and various groups on local, state, and federal campaign finance law, lobbying compliance, and governmental procedures.

Jerry currently serves as director of Fordham Law School's Voting Rights and Democracy Project, chairs the New York State Bar Association's Voting Rights and Democracy Task Force, serves on the New York City Bar Association's Rule of Law Task Force, and acts as a special adviser to the American Bar Association's Election Law Committee. He was recently appointed to the prestigious American Bar Association's Task Force for Democracy.

Since 2003, Jerry has taught Election Law at Fordham Law School. Additionally, from 2009 to 2019, he taught at the University of Pennsylvania Law School. A prolific writer, he authored the treatise Goldfeder's Modern Election Law, now in its 6th Edition, and has published articles in various academic journals as well as the New York Times, the L.A. Times, USA Today, the New York Daily News, and other publications. Jerry also writes the New York Law Journal column, Election and Political Law.

Before joining Cozen O'Connor, Jerry served as special counsel at Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP. Before that, he served as special counsel for public integrity to the New York State Attorney General. In 2020, he chaired the New York State Bar Association's 2020 Presidential Task Force, offering guidance on legal issues in the presidential race to attorneys, journalists, and the public. In 2016, he consulted with CNN for its series, 'Race to the White House.' Jerry also previously chaired the New York City Bar Association's Committee on Election Law and the Committee on New York City Municipal Affairs.

Jerry earned his J.D. from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University, where he served on the Cardozo Law Review. Before pursuing a legal career, Jerry obtained his master's in political science at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he served as a teaching assistant and president of the local teaching and research assistants union. Jerry also taught American politics as an adjunct professor at Brooklyn College, where he had earned his bachelor's degree.

News

Jerry Goldfeder Selected to Receive New Democratic Dimensions 2024 Liberty Award

November 19, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder, a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation Department, has been selected to receive the New Democratic Dimensions Liberty Award.

Trump's Legal Future After Winning The Presidential Election

November 11, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on Spectrum News to discuss Donald Trump's current pending legal proceedings.

How Trump Allies Could Challenge US Presidential Election Result

October 31, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in an Irish Times article discussing the Republican Party’s plan to send 230,000 volunteers across every battleground state to monitor alleged fraud after the polls close on election day.

NY Lawyers Preparing for Prominent Role in State, National Elections

October 29, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Law Journal article discussing his and the firm's role in assisting the State Democracy Defenders Fund to research state laws to support litigation by Democrats and Republicans to expand the vote and ensure valid ballots are counted.

Would the Federal Government Prosecute Elon Musk for His $1 Million Lottery? Don’t Hold Your Breath

October 28, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a PolitiFact article discussing whether the Federal Election Commission or the Justice Department would prosecute Elon Musk for his $1 million daily lottery for registered voters in battleground states who sign his petition advocating for free speech and the Second Amendment.

DOJ Warns Musk $1 Million Payments to Voters May Be Illegal, FEC Complaint Filed

October 24, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was interviewed by Straight Arrow News to discuss whether Elon Musk’s 1 million dollar daily giveaway to registered votes is illegal.

Super Lawyers Recognizes 35 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys in New York

October 24, 2024

Fourteen attorneys were recognized as Super Lawyers, and 21 were named “Rising Stars,” a list that recognizes attorneys under the age of 40.

Is Elon Musk’s $1 Million Payment to Registered Voters in Swing States Legal?

October 23, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was interviewed by Straight Arrow News to discuss whether Elon Musk’s public statement requiring winners to become spokespersons for his petition affects the legality of his daily $1 million lottery for registered voters.

The Possible Paths Ahead if Adams Quits or Gets Booted, Jumaane Would Take Over

September 27, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Daily News article discussing an inability committee, formed by city officials, that could vote Mayor Adams out of office if the governor decides not to remove him.

Legal Scholars: There's Not Much Adams Could Do if Hochul Chooses to Remove Him

September 27, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Law Journal article discussing whether New York’s Governor, Kathy Hochul, has the authority to remove Mayor Adams and what the process would look like.

Adams Indictment What’s Next?

September 26, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on NBC News to discuss what will happen if New York City Mayor Eric Adams resigns.

After the Eric Adams Indictment, What’s Next?

September 26, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Wall Street Journal article discussing whether a special election would be needed if Mayor Eric Adams resigns.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Has Been Indicted on Federal Charges. So What Comes Next?

September 26, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in an NBC New York article discussing New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ decision to stay in office after his indictment was announced.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted After Federal Corruption Probe

September 26, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Bloomberg Law article discussing New York City Mayor Eric Adam’s indictment and what would happen if he resigned.

Election Lawyers Weren't Surprised Judge Knocked RFK Jr. Off Presidential Ballot

August 14, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Law Journal article discussing a New York trial court judge’s decision that ordered the state Board of Elections not to include Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on the statewide ballot.

Veteran Attorney Discusses Upcoming Democratic National Convention

July 24, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on Spectrum News to discuss the Democratic Party's nomination process.

What SCOTUS’ Immunity Ruling Means for Trump’s Cases and Future Presidents

July 02, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a WLRN article discussing how the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision regarding presidential immunity will impact Donald Trump’s conviction and sentencing in New York.

Jerry Goldfeder Analyzes Donald Trump’s Reaction to His Conviction on 1010WINS

May 31, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on 1010WINS to discuss Donald Trump’s reaction to his criminal hush money trial conviction.

Jerry Goldfeder Discusses Donald Trump’s Conviction on 1010WINS

May 31, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on 1010WINS to discuss Donald Trump’s felony conviction.

Trump Was Found Guilty of Crimes in New York. Can He Still Vote in Florida?

May 30, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Yahoo News article discussing how an appeal to Donald Trump’s conviction will impact his voting status in his home state.

Jury Deliberations Begin in Trump Hush Money Trial

May 29, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on WBUR Here and Now to discuss how the jury might weigh the evidence presented in former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial.

Prosecution, Defense Deliver Closing Arguments in Trump Hush Money Trial

May 28, 2024

In a video interview with Spectrum News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses how critical the closing arguments are in Donald Trump’s trial.

Prosecution Delivers Closing Argument in Trump’s Historic Criminal Hush Money Trial

May 28, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News Live, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the prosecution’s closing argument in Donald Trump’s trial.

RFK Jr. May Face Legal Trouble After Listing Westchester Home as Residence Without Actually Living There: Experts

May 20, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Post article discussing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s claim to residency in New York despite not owning the property and rarely visiting the address.

Cross-Examination of Michael Cohen Underway

May 20, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News Live, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the defense’s strategy to discredit Michael Cohen in the Donald Trump trial.

A Trump Conviction Depends on Proving More Than a Hush-Money Coverup

May 19, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Wall Street Journal article discussing whether Donald Trump knew that Michael Cohen’s payment to Stormy Daniels violated the Federal Election Campaign Act.

Trump's Defense Team Cross-Examines Michael Cohen

May 14, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the prosecution's case so far in Donald Trump’s trial.

Michael Cohen Testifies for Second Day in Trump Criminal Hush Money Trial

May 14, 2024

In a video interview with Spectrum News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses Michael Cohen’s testimony in Donald Trump’s trial.

Court Wraps For the Week in FMR. Pres. Trump’s Historic Criminal Hush Money Trial in NYC

May 10, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the judge’s gag order warning to Michael Cohen in Donald Trump’s trial.

Stormy Daniels Testifying Again in Hush Money Case

May 09, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on ABC News to discuss what he will be listening for as the defense questions Stormy Daniels.

Stormy Daniels Describes Alleged Sexual Encounter With Trump

May 07, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder analyzes the Trump trial and Stormy Daniels’s testimony.

Former Longtime Trump Organization Controller Delivers Crucial Testimony

May 06, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses Jeffrey McConney’s testimony in Donald Trump’s trial.

Trump’s Hush Money Trial Resumes

May 06, 2024

In a video interview with Spectrum News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the narrative the prosecution is trying to prove to the jurors.

Hope Hicks Testifies at Trump Hush Money Trial

May 03, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses Trump’s reaction to Hope Hick’s testimony.

Michael Cohen’s Banker Testifies in Trump Trial

April 30, 2024

In a video interview with CNN, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the testimony of Michael Cohen’s banker.

Old, Unused, and ‘Twisty’ — Meet the Obscure NY Election-Conspiracy Law That Just Might Get Trump Convicted

April 27, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Business Insider article discussing whether prosecutors have to prove Trump is guilty of violating FECA, state tax law, and falsifying business records.

Day 4 of Witness Testimonies Underway in Trump’s Hush Money Trial

April 26, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses David Pecker's testimony, which puts Trump at the center of the catch-and-kill scheme to unlawfully interfere with the election.

Donald Trump Says Legal Case 'Fallen Apart'

April 26, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Newsweek article discussing David Pecker’s testimony in Donald Trump’s trial.

Veteran Attorney Jerry Goldfeder Discusses Trump’s Mounting Legal Troubles

April 25, 2024

In a video interview with Spectrum News, Jerry Goldfeder breaks down the evidence against Donald Trump.

Former National Enquirer Publisher Takes The Stand In Hush Money Trial

April 22, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses how the defense tried to portray Donald Trump as just an ordinary man, husband, and father.

All Jurors Seated For Trump Hush Money Trial

April 19, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the intent of the judge in Donald Trump’s trial to keep the jurors free from Trump's attack or intimidation.

Twelve Jurors And One Alternate Selected In Trump’s NYC Criminal Hush Money Trial

April 18, 2024

In a video interview with ABC News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the skepticism over the ability to seat an impartial jury in Donald Trump’s trial.

Objection Alleges Nearly 30,000 Petition Signatures From Us Senate Candidate Are Invalid

April 16, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a WBNG article discussing the objections to petitions filed by Khaled Salem, alleging that the signatures required to gain ballot access are invalid.

What to Expect When Trump’s 1st Criminal Trial Begins Monday

April 15, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on PBS News Hour to discuss how the media has presented Donald Trump’s criminal trial.

Litigation Abound Challenging NY Law That Puts County Elections in Even-Numbered Years

April 15, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Law Journal article discussing the lawsuits in New York trial courts challenging a recent law that will change town and county elections to coincide with federal and state elective offices.

Jerry Goldfeder was a Guest on ABC7

April 05, 2024

In a video interview with ABC7, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the NYPD Chief of Patrol’s tweets suggesting voting out an elected official from his official department account.

What’s Next For Trump? Ex-president Has 10 Days to Post Reduced $175m Bond as He Appeals Fraud Judgment

March 28, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Post Article discussing the First Department’s decision to reduce Donald Trump’s bond.

Kenneth Fisher and Jerry Goldfeder Named in City & State New York’s 2024 Trailblazers in Law

March 26, 2024

Kenneth Fisher, a member of the firm’s Business Law Department, and Jerry Goldfeder, a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation Department, have been named to City & State New York’s 2024 Trailblazers in Law list.

NY Gov. Approves Bill Directing Redistricting Suits to NY's Major Metropolitan Courts

March 05, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Law Journal article discussing an amended bill that Governor Kathy Hochul signed, which limits New Yorkers to filing redistricting lawsuits in Manhattan and Albany, Westchester, and Erie counties.

Election Attorney Discusses Federal Appeals Court Denying Trump Immunity

February 08, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on Spectrum News NY1 to discuss if Trump is eligible to run for president due to his conduct surrounding the January 6 insurrection.

How We Can Get Rid of Trump and Biden

January 31, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on The Middle – Unplugged with Anthony Weiner podcast to discuss how a candidate can be replaced on the ballot.

Secretive Court Fight Roiling New York’s Democratic Socialists

January 30, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a New York Times Article discussing the failure to file the authorizations that D.S.A. for the Many needed to raise and spend candidate funds in the 2022 elections.

This Jan. 6, NY Democrats Are Vocal About Removing Trump From the Ballot, but Decision Remains With the BOE

January 09, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a City & State New York article discussing the process for the New York State Board of Elections to remove Trump from the ballot.

Majority of NYC Council Members, All Democrats, Say Trump Shouldn’t Be On the NY Ballot

January 05, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Gothamist article discussing the New York City council members’ letter to the state Board of Elections to withhold Donald J. Trump’s name from the state’s 2024 presidential primary and general election ballots.

Colorado Supreme Court Rules Trump Ineligible to be President For Insurrection

January 04, 2024

In a video interview with Spectrum News, Jerry Goldfeder discusses the Colorado Supreme Court ruling that decided Trump is ineligible to be president because of his role in the insurrection.

New York Lawmakers Want Trump off the Ballot

January 04, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in a Spectrum News article discussing New York State Legislature and City Council members urging the State Board of Elections to disqualify Donald Trump from the primary ballot.

Long-Shot Candidates Battle to Get on State Ballots

December 18, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder was quoted in an article published by The Hill, discussing the hurdles for several outsider presidential candidates working to secure spots on various state ballots for the upcoming election.

Elite Voting Rights Attorney Jerry H. Goldfeder and Veteran Commercial Litigator Kerry T. Cooperman from Stroock to join Cozen O’Connor

November 15, 2023

Jerry H. Goldfeder, widely regarded as among the nation’s most influential political lawyers, and Kerry T. Cooperman, an equally influential commercial litigator and nonprofit attorney with more than a decade of experience handling complex real estate disputes and counseling nonprofit organizations, join the firm's New York City office.

Dianne Feinstein and Senatorial Power

April 26, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder a guest on The Takeaway Podcast to discuss Dianne Feinstein’s absence from the Senate.

Jerry Goldfeder: Renowned Election Law Attorney

January 27, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder was a guest on the Two Lawyers Walk Into a Bar podcast to discuss the formative experiences in his life that impacted his career.

Publications

The Road to the Ballot Runs Through Judicial Conventions [AmNew York Legal]

November 04, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the AmNew York Legal Special Section discussing the general election ballot, which includes races for Supreme Court judges in approximately 30 states.

Natural Disasters, Terrorist Disruptions and Presidential Elections [Just Security]

October 22, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to Just Security discussing the need for Congress to enact standardized procedures to handle election interruptions in future emergencies.

The Governor and the Mayor: A Modern Seabury Hearing? [NYLJ]

October 11, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing whether New York Governor Kathy Hochul has the authority to remove Mayor Eric Adams from office.

Overcoming Serious Threats To Our Democracy: We All Need To Get Involved To Defend It [American Bar Association]

August 09, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder is a member and contributing author of the American Bar Association Task Force for American Democracy’s initial report.

NY Court of Appeals Weighs Mail-In and Non-Citizen Voting [NYLJ]

August 01, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing several salient issues concerning the upcoming presidential election.

A DNC Delegate Who’s Backing a Winner [New York Daily News]

July 24, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing his role as a Democratic National Convention delegate.

Sidebar Series: The Trump Jury Instructions [NYLJ]

May 22, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the so-called “trial of the century” of former President Trump.

Sidebar Series: The Trump Gag Order [NYLJ]

May 09, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing Judge Juan Merchan’s second order holding Donald Trump in contempt.

Saving Our Republic [NYLJ]

May 02, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing bar associations and civic groups across the country who are working to preserve our constitutional democracy.

Trump on Trial Sidebar: What’s Happening [NYLJ]

April 11, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the salient issues during the trial of Donald Trump.

Voting in New York [New York Law Journal]

March 15, 2024

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing two significant voting rights developments in New York.

'Speaker Hakeem Jeffries?’ [New York Law Journal]

December 29, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the court’s decision in Hoffmann v. New York State Independent Redistricting Commission.

2024: Like No Other Presidential Election in Our History [New York Law Journal]

September 07, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal addressing how the 2024 presidential election is already shaping up to be unlike any other in history.

Mid-Year Round-Up: There Is A Lot Going On [New York Law Journal]

June 23, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Allen v. Milligan, which affirmed an Alabama district court’s ruling that the state’s congressional lines were an impermissible racial gerrymander.

If Dianne Feinstein Were President [Just Security]

April 19, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to Just Security, discussing Dianne Feinstein’s month-long absence from Washington, D.C.

Small Potatoes? Not at All [New York Law Journal]

April 11, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing Donald Trump’s indictment, which alleges he falsified business records with the intent to conceal campaign finance violations during his presidential campaign.

What Happens When a Senator is Incapacitated? [New York Law Journal]

February 27, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the political impact of Senator John Fetterman’s hospitalization for depression.

The NY Senate Should Have Voted on Judge LaSalle [New York Law Journal]

January 23, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the New York State Senate declining to vote on Justice Hector LaSalle’s nomination as Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals.

Preventing the Next George Santos [New York Daily News]

January 10, 2023

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing Rep. Ritchie Torres’s effort to introduce legislation requiring congressional candidates to file sworn affidavits attesting to their qualifications and background.

George Santos, Lester Chang and Legislative Exclusion [New York Law Journal]

December 28, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing George Santos's status in Congress and Lester Chang’s status in the New York State Assembly.

American Democracy Has a Future After All [New York Daily News]

November 18, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing the history of government officials embracing defeat in elections.

Samuel Tilden’s Plea [New York Law Journal]

October 27, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the rising number of members in the legal profession who are concerned with the fragility of the rule of law and the norms that sustain it.

Time To Retire ‘First-Past-the-Post’ Elections [New York Law Journal]

September 13, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the need to reform the electoral system so that elected officials are more representative of the districts they serve.

How To Fix New York’s Elections: Lessons From Ny-10 [New York Daily News]

September 10, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing the critical takeaways for voting rights advocates from New York’s Congressional primaries.

New York: More Like Alabama Than San Francisco? [New York Law Journal]

June 23, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the Appellate Division, First Department’s decision that New York State’s Assembly districts are unconstitutional.

New York Election Chaos and the ‘Purcell’ Principle [New York Law Journal]

May 11, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the New York State Court of Appeals’ decision to invalidate congressional and state senate lines this year in the New York redistricting litigation.

Hop On, Hop Off? Not So Fast! [New York Law Journal]

April 21, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the need for a streamlined system for how our ballot access rules should work.

Preparing for the Next January 6th [New York Law Journal]

February 25, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the problems with the procedures to elect the president of the United States.

Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth, and the Trials of American Democracy [New York Law Journal]

February 04, 2022

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal analyzing Unthinkable, a memoir written by Congressman Jamie Raskin.

Fight for NYC’s Right to Rule Itself, Eric [New York Law Journal]

December 30, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing two ways to restructure the New York City government to be less dependent on Albany and more productive in New York City.

Ballot Access and Voter Choice: Alternatives Required [New York Law Journal]

December 17, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing candidates the Board of Elections disqualified because of errors on their cover sheets.

‘Indispensable’ to Preserving Our Constitutional Democracy [New York Law Journal]

October 21, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the significant role lawyers have in preserving our constitutional democracy.

Excessive Judicialization, Extralegal Interventions, and Violent Insurrection: A Snapshot of Our 59th Presidential Election [Fordham Law Review]

September 17, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the Fordham Law Review, discussing issues related to the way we elect the president.

Impeachment: The New York Version [New York Law Journal]

August 26, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the issues with New York’s impeachment procedure.

A Power No Governor Should Have [New York Daily News]

August 24, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing the process for Governor Kathy Hochul’s appointment of New York’s 64th lieutenant governor.

We Warned in March 2019 of a Coup Attempt If Trump Lost the 2020 Election. We Were Right [USA Today]

August 02, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to USA Today discussing Donald Trump’s pressure campaign to declare the 2020 election corrupt.

What Does it Mean to be a Socialist in 2021? [Queens Daily Eagle]

July 22, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the Queens Daily Eagle discussing the self-described socialists in the State Legislature and the New York City Council.

Our Miserable Board of Elections [New York Daily News]

July 01, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing the sample ballots the New York Board of Elections included in their numbers for the Mayoral race.

Are Certain Candidates Beyond Redemption? [New York Law Journal]

June 24, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing a City Charter amendment that disqualifies certain felons from running or holding office in New York City.

The Ranked-Choice Difference: What New Yorkers Should Look For When They Vote in This Month’s Primary [New York Daily News]

June 02, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing the ranked-choice voting process.

Corporations, Fight Voting Curbs: Press Statements And Symbolic Periodic Boycotts Aren’t Good Enough [New York Daily News]

May 14, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing business leaders' responses to restrictive voting laws nationwide.

New York Still Needs More Reform [New York Law Journal]

April 22, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing how New York is tackling voting rights.

Protecting the Right to Vote [New York Law Journal]

February 25, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing several bills in Congress that would make voting more accessible.

Party Switchers Welcome; Invaders Not [New York Daily News]

February 08, 2021

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing a New York start-up group urging Republications to become Democrats to nominate a candidate in June’s Democratic primary for mayor.

Trump Can Be the Greatest Loser [New York Daily News]

November 26, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing whether former President Trump will concede that he lost in the 2020 Presidential Election.

2020 Election Sidebar: No Winner in a State? What Then? [New York Law Journal]

October 26, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the latest legal issues concerning mail-in ballots in the presidential election.

Please Don’t Tell Kamala I’m With Her. I Wouldn’t Want to Jinx the Race [Los Angeles Times]

October 22, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the Los Angeles Times discussing his experience supporting presidential candidates.

Demand Respect for Results [Albany Times Union]

October 05, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the Albany Times Union discussing President Trump’s refusal to agree to a peaceful transition of power if he loses the 2020 election.

Protecting the Right to Vote: The Assault on the Franchise Continues [New York Law Journal]

September 01, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the ongoing battle to protect your right to vote.

Trump’s Tweets Are Hollow, but Frank Underwood-Style Voter Suppression Is a Real Election Day Threat [Daily Eagle]

August 11, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the Daily Eagle discussing President Trump’s diversions to disrupt the 2020 presidential election.

Before John Lewis, Was the Bold Life and Unjust Death of Maceo Snipes [USA Today]

July 31, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to USA Today discussing Maceo Snipes’s death and the impact he had on voting rights.

2020 Election Sidebar: Still No Plan for a Smooth Election [New York Law Journal]

July 01, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the need to develop contingency plans for voting during natural disasters or health crises.

Send Every N.Y. Voter a Ballot [New York Daily News]

June 29, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Daily News discussing Governor Cuomo’s executive order permitting all New Yorkers to vote by mail in the primary elections.

New York Elections During the Pandemic [New York Law Journal]

June 17, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing Governor Andrew Cuomo’s executive orders to postpone the presidential primary and streamline the voting process during the pandemic.

Binding Electoral Votes: A Bad Idea for New York [New York Law Journal]

June 17, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing William Josephson’s recent essay criticizing the current New York State Senate bill that would bind presidential electors to cast their votes for the winner of the popular vote.

2020 Election Sidebar: No Voters Need Apply? [New York Law Journal]

May 26, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing a U.S. constitutional provision that refers to state legislature’s authority to decide who picks presidential electors.

2020 Election Sidebar: Can the Election Be Postponed? [New York Law Journal]

April 28, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing whether President Trump can delay the 2020 Presidential Election.

Tornadoes, Coronavirus and the 2020 Elections [New York Law Journal]

March 10, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing a devastating tornado in Tennessee that sent election regulators scrambling as to how to conduct the state’s voting.

Impeachment Sidebar: The Senate Trial [New York Law Journal]

January 27, 2020

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing why the Senate was selected to try an impeached public official.

Partisan Gerrymandering—A Continuing Threat [New York Law Journal]

December 26, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing partisan gerrymandering of electoral districts, which has infected American elections since the beginning of the republic.

Impeachment Sidebar: High Crimes and Misdemeanors [New York Law Journal]

December 20, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing President Trump’s impeachment.

Impeachment Sidebar: Bribery [New York Law Journal]

December 03, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the House of Representatives Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence’s fact-finding report for President Trump’s impeachment inquiry.

Impeachment Sidebar: Historical Context [New York Law Journal]

November 13, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the history of the impeachment process.

Summer 2019 Election Law Round-Up [New York Law Journal]

August 28, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing several of the latest rulings by New York courts concerning limitations on the public’s involvement in elections.

New York’s Arcane Election Laws Continue to Suppress Voters [New York Law Journal]

August 27, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing the ballot issues in the recent Queens County district attorney race, which took 43 days to settle.

If We Get Beyond The Horse Trading, Fusion Voting Has A Role [New York Law Journal]

March 08, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal, discussing the difference that New York’s fusion voting law made in our country’s history.

New York Election Reform Needs Improvement [New York Law Journal]

February 13, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing two pro-voter reforms that Albany recently passed.

National Popular Vote, With All its Flaws, Is Worth Serious Look [New York Law Journal]

January 07, 2019

Jerry Goldfeder contributed an article to the New York Law Journal discussing William Josephson’s comprehensive analysis of the National Popular Vote (NPV).

Events & Seminars

Past Events

Faculty-Student-Staff Conversation: 2024 Election

November 06, 2024 - New York, NY

The 2024 Presidential Election: Are We Ready?

October 28, 2024 - New York, NY

Understanding the History of American Voting

September 19, 2024 - New York, NY

2024 Election Update with Steve Kornacki

April 03, 2024 - New York, NY

Gerrymandering, Race and Inequality

October 27, 2022 - Webinar

Election Interference

April 28, 2022 - Webinar

Protecting Our Constitutional Democracy

December 15, 2021 - Webinar

Protecting the Ballot: Election Law and Voter Access

October 20, 2021 - New York, New York

Reforming The Electoral College

December 09, 2020 - Webinar

2020 Electoral Activism Training Academy

September 26, 2020 - Webinar

Education

  • Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, Yeshiva University, J.D., 1979
  • University of California, Los Angeles, M.A., 1972
  • Brooklyn College, B.A., 1968

Awards & Honors

Lifetime Achievement Award, New York Law Journal

Burton Award for Excellence in Legal Writing

Tzedek Award, Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty

Judge Harold R. Tyler, Jr. Award, Brooklyn Legal Services Corporation

Corporate Social Responsibility Award in Labor & Law, City & State New York

Law Power 100, 50 Over Fifty, and Law Power 50 Lists, City & State New York

Best Lawyers in America, 2021

Adjunct Professor of the Year, Fordham Law School, 2015 & 2019

New York Super Lawyer, 2024 

New Democratic Dimensions, Liberty Award, 2024 

  • New York
  • U.S. District Court -- Southern District of New York
  • U.S. District Court -- Eastern District of New York
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit
  • U.S. Supreme Court

Law Secretary to the Hon. Justice Samuel J. Silverman of the New York State Appellate Division, First Department (1979-1980)

Member, American Bar Association Task Force for Democracy (2023-present) 

Chair, New York State Bar Association Task Force on Voting Rights and Democracy (2021-present)

Member, NYC Bar Association Rule of Law Task Force (2021-present)

Chair, New York State Bar Association Task Force on the 2020 Election (2020)

Member, Rules Committee of Democratic National Convention (2020)

Special Advisor,   Election Law Committee, American Bar Association (2019-present)

Board of Advisors, Let America Vote (2017-2020)

Board of Trustees, Museum of the City of New York (2014-present)

Board of Directors, Latino Leadership Institute (2015-2017)

Board of Directors, Bella Abzug Leadership Institute (2005-present)

Board of Directors, Judges and Lawyers Breast Cancer Alert (2006-2014)

Chair, New York City Bar Association, Task Force on Charter Reform (2019)

Chair, New York City Bar Association, New York City Municipal Affairs Committee (2015-2018)

Chair, New York City Bar Association, Committee on Election Law (2007-2010)