Last Day of Early Voting Ahead of Crucial Election

Today, Sunday, November 1, is the final day of early voting in New York City ahead of Tuesday’s November 3 General Election. Registered voters who have not yet cast their ballots are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity today rather than wait until Election Day. Early voting is often less crowded, making it easier and quicker to get in and out of the polling site.

Polling locations are open today from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Voters should remember that their early voting location may be different from their regular Election Day polling site.

The Rebbe repeatedly encouraged people to exercise their right to vote, emphasizing the importance of participating in the democratic process and use the opportunity to influence the public affairs of the country in which they live.

This year’s election is particularly consequential, with a closely watched gubernatorial race between Kathy Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman, alongside several major issues affecting New York families and communities. Among them are protections for shuls, schools and other religious institutions, public funding for childcare vouchers, and the state’s participation in the federal scholarship tax credit program, which could provide meaningful tuition relief for families.

The race has drawn considerable attention, with polls showing a competitive contest. Some reports have suggested that the final margin could be extremely narrow, potentially coming down to just a few thousand votes, making voter turnout especially important.

Rabbi Avrohom Shemtov, chairman of Agudas Chasidei Chabad (Aguch), also released a public letter clarifying Chabad’s policy regarding political parties and candidates, while encouraging everyone to exercise their right to vote.

On Erev Shabbos, just three days before Election Day, Blakeman made another visit to the Rebbe’s Ohel in Queens, where he davened for brachos and success ahead of the election.

Community members are also reminded that only U.S. citizens are eligible to vote in New York elections. Green card holders are not eligible, even if they receive election-related mail. Voting when ineligible can carry serious legal and immigration consequences.

Today is the last opportunity to vote early. Those who cannot make it today can still vote on Tuesday, November 3, when polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

To find your designated early voting location, visit voterlookup.elections.ny.gov.