NYC Moves Toward a Big Election Change This November

By Y.M. Lowy

This fall, New Yorkers will vote on whether to shift local elections to the same years as presidential and congressional races. The city has approved a proposal that would put local elections on the same schedule as national ones.

Right now, races for mayor, City Council, and other city offices happen in odd-numbered years when fewer people vote. In 2020, around 62 percent of New York City voters turned out for the presidential election. But in 2021, when voters chose a new mayor, only 23 percent showed up.

When elections are held together, it’s easier for voters to stay involved. It could also save money and make the local government more representative of the city’s population.

There was also discussion about letting all voters take part in primary elections, no matter their political party. That idea had strong support but was left out for now because the commission couldn’t agree on how to make it work.

The proposal to move local elections forward will appear on the November ballot. If it passes, it could bring one of the biggest changes to how New Yorkers vote in years.