New Yorkers Surge to Polls on First Day of Early Voting

UPDATE: New Yorkers turned out in droves on October 25, 2025, as early voting kicked off for the highly anticipated mayoral election. A staggering 79,409 voters cast their ballots citywide, marking a historic increase from just 15,418 on the first day of early voting in the 2021 general election.

Manhattan led the charge with 24,046 voters, a dramatic rise from 4,563 in 2021. Brooklyn followed closely behind with 22,105 check-ins, more than doubling its early voting figures from previous elections. Queens saw 19,045 voters, while the Bronx had 7,793 and Staten Island 6,420, all significantly outpacing prior elections.

The heightened turnout reflects growing enthusiasm among voters, particularly for Democratic Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who is gaining momentum against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, now running as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Many voters expressed frustration with the traditional political landscape, with Mamdani’s campaign resonating strongly among those seeking change.

“I was a diehard Democrat, but after COVID, I changed to no party,” said a voter named Nilka from the Lower East Side, demonstrating a shift in perspectives. She plans to register as a Republican, showcasing the evolving political sentiments among New Yorkers.

Criticism targeted Cuomo, with one voter stating he has “blood on his hands” regarding his COVID-19 policies. Cuomo has faced backlash for his handling of nursing home admissions during the pandemic, a point his opponents have used to rally support against him.

Voters voiced a mix of hopes and concerns as they cast their ballots. “We need a change right now. Let’s give him [Mamdani] a break,” said Marcia, a Brooklyn resident, highlighting crime and safety as her top priorities. Another voter, Kimberly Wong, expressed her support for Mamdani, emphasizing the need for fresh ideas in the race.

The atmosphere at polling stations was charged with passion and urgency. Families turned out with their pets, and many wore “I Voted Early” stickers proudly. “His campaign runs on affordability,” said Linda Quiñones, a lifelong New Yorker. “New York should be for New Yorkers.”

The first day of early voting sets the tone for the coming weeks leading up to the election. As Mamdani’s popularity surges, he is seen as a candidate who could reshape not only city politics but potentially influence the Democratic Party on a national scale.

As early voting continues, all eyes are on the candidates and how they will respond to the shifting dynamics within the electorate. What happens next could redefine the political landscape of New York City.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.