On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, New Yorkers will have the opportunity to participate in a crucial election, including casting their votes for the 47th president of the United States. Despite historically low voter turnout in the state, the 2020 election saw a significant increase in participation, with New York experiencing a relatively high turnout. However, only 57% of eligible voters in the state actually cast their ballots that year. Will you be one of the New Yorkers who show up at the polls this year?
Here is everything you need to know about voting in New York before the upcoming general election in November.
### How to Register to Vote
There are three ways to register to vote in New York: in-person, by mail, or online. New York provides various websites that make registration quick and easy, depending on whether you have a New York State Driver’s License.
If you have a valid state driver’s license, you can register online through the New York City Board of Elections (BOE), the state Department of Motor Vehicles, NY.Gov, or TurboVote. For those without a valid New York driver’s license, registration can be done on the city BOE website. Alternatively, you can print out an application, sign it, and mail it to the BOE at 32 Broadway, 7 Fl., New York, NY 10004. In-person registration is also available at any of the city’s BOE offices, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
To be eligible to register to vote, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old on or before Election Day, not currently incarcerated for a felony, not claiming the right to vote elsewhere, and not declared incompetent by a court. New York allows individuals with prior felony convictions to vote, but they must re-register once released from prison.
### Registration Deadline
The deadline to register to vote online or in person is October 26, ten days before Election Day. For mailed registrations, the city BOE must receive the application by October 26, which means it must be postmarked by October 21 or earlier.
If you are unsure of your registration status, you can check with the city Board of Elections or call 1-866-868-3692 for verification.
### Early Voting
Early voting in New York begins on October 26 and runs through November 3. Voters can cast their ballots in person at designated early voting polling places from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays. It is important to verify your early voting poll site as it may differ from your Election Day voting location.
### Requesting an Absentee or Mailed Ballot
If you are unable to vote in person on Election Day, you can request an absentee ballot. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is October 26. Additionally, voters can request a mailed early ballot by the same deadline.
Remember that if you request a mail-in ballot, you will not be allowed to vote in person on a machine on Election Day. However, you can still cast your vote using an affidavit ballot if you go to vote in person and had requested a by-mail ballot.
### Absentee Ballot Due Date
All absentee or mail-in ballots must be postmarked no later than Election Day, November 5. The ballot must reach the Board of Elections by November 12 at the latest. To ensure timely delivery, it is recommended to mail your ballot at least a week before Election Day.
Do not wait until the last minute to request your absentee or mail-in ballot; October 26 will arrive sooner than you think.
### What’s on the Ballot
Each ballot in New York may vary depending on your location. While all ballots will include the presidential election with candidates such as former President Donald Trump (R) and Vice President Kamala Harris (D), there may be additional races and ballot measures specific to your district.
One notable ballot measure in 2024 seeks to amend the New York constitution to provide more protections for gender identity and reproductive rights. There may also be proposals to alter the City Charter, which outlines the rules and processes governing the city.
In conclusion, exercising your right to vote is essential in shaping the future of our country and community. Make sure to register, familiarize yourself with the voting process, and participate in this crucial election on November 5, 2024. Your vote matters.