UPDATE: Early voting for New York City’s 2025 general election kicked off with a staggering 79,409 voters casting their ballots on the first day, according to the New York City Board of Elections. This marks a dramatic surge compared to just 15,418 voters who participated on the inaugural day of early voting in 2021, when the last mayoral election occurred.
The numbers from Saturday reflect an overwhelming response, particularly in Manhattan, where 24,046 residents voted. Brooklyn and Queens followed closely with 22,105 and 19,045 early voters, respectively. The Bronx reported 7,793 votes, while Staten Island saw 6,420 voters make their voices heard.
New Yorkers are decisively shaping their city’s future, voting not only for the next mayor but also for critical positions such as the city comptroller, public advocate, borough presidents, city councilmembers, and judges, depending on their locales. For voters in Brooklyn and Manhattan, the district attorneys are also on the ballot, alongside six important ballot questions.
The first statewide question targets state forest land, while the next four questions relate to housing development in the city. The final question proposes moving the city’s election cycle to even-numbered years to align with presidential elections.
This nine-day early voting period, which will run through Sunday, November 2, is crucial for shaping the political landscape of New York City. Voters are encouraged to check their early voting sites and familiarize themselves with the ballot via Gothamist’s comprehensive voter guide.
In a related note, voters in New Jersey also began casting their votes on Saturday in the race to succeed term-limited Governor Phil Murphy. The competition pits Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill against Republican Jack Ciattarelli, adding to the political intensity of the day.
With early voting now underway, the energy and engagement from New Yorkers signal a heightened interest in this election cycle. As the days progress, all eyes will be on voter turnout, as it could indicate the level of public interest and engagement in shaping their city’s governance.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we approach a pivotal election for New York City.
