In a sign of the current enthusiasm for the election, election officials reported increased turnout during the first two days of early voting in New York City and Long Island.
More than 250,000 people voted this weekend, including on Long Island, where election officials reported higher voter turnout than two years ago.
“Voting is a good thing because some people can’t vote,” said Paola, a local voter. “So, I want to vote for them.”
Meanwhile, gubernatorial candidates are stepping up their campaigns and continuing to gain support.
Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman on Monday reiterated his plan to work for life in the agriculture sector, taking into account the calls he’s received from across the state about the needs of farm workers. It’s an issue he’s already discussed with President Donald Trump.
“Blackman has met with the president multiple times regarding the work permit program,” said Melissa Figueroa, a spokesperson for Blackman’s campaign. “He’s very aware of that.”
Meanwhile, New York Governor Kathy Hochul pledged continued support for immigrant communities.
Hochul, who is seeking reelection, met with a Dominican women’s group on Monday and tried to speak in Spanish, emphasizing the importance of family to Hispanics.
“It’s very important,” voter Sara told our sister station Telemundo 47. “It’s important that Latinos who are eligible to vote go out and vote and make their voices heard.”
At the end of the third day of early voting in New York City, here are the voter turnout rates in each borough, according to the Board of Elections:
- Manhattan: 63,195
- Bronx: 23,685
- Brooklyn: 64,556
- Queens: 54,595
- Staten Island: 18,863
The total number of early voters registered was 224,894, but those numbers were not official as of the close of polls.