This November, the trees will shake loose the last of their leaves, we’ll gather to celebrate what we are thankful for, and we’ll have the opportunity to exercise our most powerful American right – the right to vote. A foundational right, voting is our civic responsibility, a fundamental tool by which our nation has guaranteed our inalienable rights throughout our 248 year history. Election Day falls on November 5 this year but, in New York, the opportunity to vote is not
limited to just one day. From October 26 to November 3, any registered voter can cast their ballot in-person and early. Voting accessibility has grown by leaps and bounds over the past decade.When early voting passed in 2019 – a bill I was proud to co-sponsor – not only did it expand the voting window, new legislation allowed teens to pre-register to vote, and we transitioned the state’s check-in system to electronic poll books, increasing accessibility and security in the process. Casting a vote allows every eligible citizen to play their role in the process of government, determining who will affect public policy in federal, state, and local government. I encourage everyone who can to cast their ballots. Every vote has power, and I hope every Orange County resident will consider taking advantage of these nine additional days of early voting to cast theirs.
Information on early voting locations and hours can be found on the state or county board of election website. Participation in elections is one of the key freedoms of American life. Your vote matters, now more than ever.
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