There’s good news for students, parents and all New Yorkers who are eligible to vote in the general election:
You don’t have to wait until Election Day on Tuesday, November 5, to cast your vote!
For the first time ever, New Yorkers can vote early beginning Saturday, October 26 through Sunday, November 3.
If you are a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older, a City resident, and are registered to vote, we encourage you to go to the polls, no matter when. Not only does voting let you choose the people who will represent you in government, it allows you to have a say about policies that can affect your community. By voting, you also encourage younger children to get more involved in their communities and show them that we all can shape the future of our City, State, and country. This is emphasized in schools through our Civics for All initiative, which teaches students the importance of the democratic process, ways to support their communities, and how to be informed voters and raise their voices about the issues that matter to them.
This year, New York City’s registered voters will elect a candidate for the position of Public Advocate through the end of 2021 and decide on five ballot questions that propose changes to the City Charter. If you live in Brooklyn’s City Council District 45—Flatbush, East Flatbush, Flatlands, Midwood, and Canarsie—you can also vote to elect a candidate to fill your district’s City Council seat.
Everyone’s schedules get busy, so it’s a good idea to make a plan to vote. Decide whether to vote early or on Election Day, and choose the time that’s best for you—whether it’s before work, after picking up groceries, or early in the morning to get your day started. Also remind your friends, neighbors, family members, and, if you’re a student, fellow classmates, to vote.
There are dozens of early voting sites across the five boroughs—find your early voting and Election Day voting sites, as well as sample ballots, at voting.nyc.
Remember: your vote is your voice, and every voice counts! So exercise your right to vote this year.