UPDATE: Early voting kicked off in New York City on October 25, 2025, and voter turnout exploded, with a staggering 79,409 voters casting their ballots on the first day. This marks a historic surge compared to previous elections, reflecting heightened engagement as the competitive mayoral race intensifies.
Manhattan led the charge with 24,046 voters, a dramatic increase from just 4,563 on the first day of early voting in 2021. Brooklyn followed closely with 22,105, while Queens saw 19,045 participants, all showing significant growth from earlier elections. The Bronx and Staten Island also contributed, with 7,793 and 6,420 voters, respectively.
As the city faces off between Democratic Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, former Governor Andrew Cuomo running as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa, voters expressed a mix of frustration and enthusiasm at polling locations. Many voiced their concerns over the choices available, with a clear desire for change resonating among those who spoke to reporters.
“My vote is for change,” said Marcia, a Brooklyn resident. “Every weekend there’s a shooting, a drug deal. We need to keep the streets clean.” The urgency of safety and criminal justice reform is palpable among voters, highlighting the pressing issues that drive the current electoral sentiment.
As reports confirm Mamdani’s campaign is ahead by double-digit margins in recent polls, his supporters expressed hope that he could reshape not just city politics but influence the Democratic Party nationally. “He’s pushing the whole Democratic Party to the left,” said Atif, an East Village voter. “We need to push for left politics.”
Conversely, discontent with Cuomo remains high, with voters like Nilka expressing her disdain, stating, “He has blood on his hands due to his handling of COVID-19.” This sentiment echoes the frustrations felt by many regarding past leadership during the pandemic.
Polling locations, including the Lower East Side Preparatory High School, saw a vibrant mix of voters, including families bringing their pets to the polls. “We voted for Zohran,” said Linda Quiñones, emphasizing the importance of affordability in her decision. “New York should be for New Yorkers.”
With this unprecedented turnout, early voting in New York City is not just a procedural step; it is a clear signal of the electorate’s eagerness for change and accountability. As the election date approaches, all eyes will be on how these early votes translate into support for candidates in the coming days.
The early voting period continues, and the public is urged to participate and make their voices heard as the 2025 mayoral race unfolds. Stay tuned for ongoing updates and analysis on this critical election.
