Common Cause New York: A Successful Start to Early Voting

Voters successfully took to polls across the state without major issues, thanks in part to the work of election officials and advocates who have fought to make early voting safe and accessible

ALBANY, NY (10/26/2026) (readMedia)-- More than 485,000 eligible New Yorkers statewide and 165,000 voters in New York City headed to the polls this weekend for the start of early voting without any major issues. In response, Susan Lerner, Executive Director of Common Cause New York, issued the following statement:

"This weekend, nearly half a million New Yorkers across the state successfully took to the polls to celebrate the start of early voting and make their voices heard. Almost twice as many people statewide voted early compared to four years ago, taking advantage of the convenience and accessibility that New York State's nine-day early voting period provides. We received a few reports of issues with ballot machines in Westchester, Nassau, and Onondaga counties, which local Boards of Elections were able to resolve quickly, ensuring that voters could still cast their ballots. I have personally been in touch directly with local Boards of Elections and can confirm that applicable procedures are being followed under New York State law.

Our Election Protection program continues to be in effect through Election Day, and we are incredibly grateful for our partners at the NAACP, League of Women Voters, and the hundreds of other organizations working in their communities to protect New Yorkers' ability to vote. We encourage everyone to take advantage of early voting and call us directly with any questions or concerns through Election Day. Now make a plan and get out there and vote!"

Background

Voters are encouraged to make a plan to vote and take advantage of early voting in person or by mail. Voting early allows New Yorkers to vote on their own schedule, gives them more time to address any potential registration issues, and helps them avoid lines on Election Day. Early voting runs through Sunday, November 1st. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd. Find your early voting poll site and more information here. For additional details about important election and voting deadlines, visit the State Board of Elections website.

Election Protection coalition partners in New York City, Long Island, Hudson Valley, Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo and more held events this weekend to celebrate the start of early voting and provide free rides to the polls for voters. Throughout the early voting process and leading up to Election Day, the coalition will have poll monitors at poll sites throughout the state who are available to help voters understand the process, observe for any misconduct, and assist voters in multiple languages with questions or concerns

Voters who run into any issues or witness any misconduct are encouraged to call the 866-OUR-VOTE hotline, where trained legal personnel can answer questions. Language assistance is available through the Election Protection website and the following numbers:

  • 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682) – Spanish language hotline
  • 844-YALLA-US (844-925-5287) – Arabic language hotline
  • 888-API-VOTE (888-274-8683) – Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Bangla, Hindi, Urdu and Tagalog hotline
  • 301-818-VOTE (301-818-8683) – American Sign Language video call number

If voters are unsure about what they see online, or have any questions about deadlines or where they're supposed to vote, they should rely on official sources. Check with local Boards of Elections or the New York State Board of Elections website.