The Assembly districts were made up of entire towns, or city wards,[1] forming a contiguous area, all within the same county.

In New York City the three Democratic factions (Tammany Hall, "Irving Hall" and the "County Democrats") re-united, and nominated joint candidates in most districts.

The approximate party strength at this election, as expressed by the vote for Judge of the Court of Appeals, was: Democrats 468,000; Republicans 461,000; Prohibition 36,000; and Greenback 2,000.

The Legislature met for the regular session at the State Capitol in Albany on January 4, 1887; and adjourned on May 26.

On January 20, the Legislature elected Frank Hiscock (R) to succeed Warner Miller (R) as U.S.