Early voting surges across New York as Hochul, Blakeman make final push – Spectrum News

Early voting surges across New York as Hochul, Blakeman make final push  Spectrum News

More than 485,000 New Yorkers cast ballots during the first two days of early voting, compared to more than 262,000 in 2022. Early voting is underway across New York, with turnout significantly outpacing the 2022 midterm elections as voters prepare to decide who will occupy the governor’s mansion on Eagle street in Albany come the first of the year, and several competitive congressional races. More than 485,000 New Yorkers cast ballots during the first two days of early voting, compared to more than 262,000 during the same period four years ago. It’s an increase of approximately 85% in what political experts say is at least an initial leap in enthusiasm as Democrats hope to capture a surge reminiscent of gains made in 2018 and Republicans hope for another polling miss.

While the state’s early voting totals do not betray party share and shouldn’t yet be seen as an indication of the full total, those experts say there is still information to be gleaned. Turnout has increased significantly in counties with competitive congressional races, including Fulton and Essex counties in the 21st Congressional District, where Republican Anthony Constantino faces Democrat Blake Gendebien. Substantial increases have also been recorded in places like Rockland and Westchester counties, where Republican Rep. Mike Lawler is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Cait Conley in the