On Nov. 5, 2024, New Yorkers can vote for the 47th U.S. President. Voter turnout was 57% in 2020. Registration can be done online, in person, or by mail. Deadline to register is Oct. 26. Early voting starts Oct. 26-Nov. 3. Request absentee ballots by Oct. 26. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 5. Ballots include presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, as well as other races and ballot measures, like gender identity and reproductive rights protections.
The upcoming general election in New York City, set for November 5, 2024, will see New Yorkers casting their votes for the 47th president of the United States, along with other choices on the ballot. Despite a historically low voter turnout in the state, the 2020 election witnessed relatively high participation, with 57% of the state’s voters casting their votes. Are you prepared to be part of the voting process this year? Here’s a comprehensive guide on when, where, and how to exercise your voting rights in the five boroughs.
In New York, there are three primary methods to register to vote: in-person, by mail, or online. The registration process varies depending on whether you possess a valid New York State Driver’s License. Individuals with a valid state driver’s license can register online through various platforms such as New York City’s Board of Elections (BOE), the state Department of Motor Vehicles, NY.Gov, and TurboVote. Those without a New York driver’s license can register on the city BOE website or by mailing a signed application to the BOE office. In-person registration is also available at BOE offices located in each borough.
To be eligible for voter registration in New York, 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 deemed incompetent by a court. Individuals with a prior incarceration history retain the right to vote but must register again after release from prison. The deadline for online or in-person voter registration is October 26, ten days before Election Day. Mailed registrations must be received by the city BOE by October 26, postmarked no later than October 21.
For those uncertain about their registration status, verification can be done through the city Board of Elections website or by contacting the BOE directly. Early voting in New York commences on October 26 and runs through November 3, allowing in-person voting at designated polling places during specified hours. It is important to verify your early voting site in advance, as it may differ from your Election Day polling location. Residents unable to vote in person on Election Day or residing outside New York can request an absentee ballot, with the deadline for submission also set for October 26.
Absentee ballot requests, whether by mail or online, must be postmarked by October 26. Mailed ballots, including absentee ballots, must be postmarked by Election Day, November 5, and received by the BOE no later than November 12. The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing ballots at least a week before Election Day to ensure timely delivery. It is crucial to request your ballot early to avoid missing the deadline and losing your chance to vote.
Ballots in New York may vary depending on your location, featuring candidate races, ballot measures, and potential amendments to the state constitution or City Charter. The 2024 ballot will include the presidential race between former President Donald Trump (R) and Vice President Kamala Harris (D), alongside other state and local contests. Notably, a ballot measure aims to amend the New York constitution to enhance protections for gender identity and reproductive rights, with potential City Charter amendments regarding fiscal reforms.
In conclusion, New Yorkers are encouraged to participate in the upcoming election by registering to vote before the deadline, familiarizing themselves with the voting process, and staying informed about the candidates and ballot measures. By exercising your voting rights, you play a crucial role in shaping the future of your community and the nation as a whole.
Source: TheCity.NYC
