New York City Early Voting Sees Record Turnout Amid Mayor Race

UPDATE: As early voting commenced on October 25, 2025, New Yorkers surged to the polls in record numbers, demonstrating intense interest in the upcoming mayoral race. On the very first day, 79,409 voters citywide cast their ballots, a staggering increase from 15,418 during the first day of early voting in the 2021 general election.

Manhattan led the charge with 24,046 voters, soaring from just 4,563 in 2021, while Brooklyn reported 22,105 check-ins, up from 3,751. Queens tallied 19,045, the Bronx 7,793, and Staten Island 6,420, all reflecting significant increases from previous elections.

The atmosphere at polling places was charged with emotion as voters expressed their views on the candidates. Many voiced frustration with traditional party options and excitement for Democratic Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who is currently leading in most opinion polls. One voter, Marcia from Brooklyn, emphasized the pressing need for change in the city, citing her concerns over crime and safety.

Voters described their motivations for participating, with some highlighting the urgency of this election. “We need to keep the streets clean. I’m tired of hearing gunshots every time I go to bed,” said Marcia, underscoring the stakes involved in this mayoral decision.

Amidst this backdrop, the race is heating up between Mamdani, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Voters are polarized, with some expressing deep-seated anger towards Cuomo for his handling of COVID-19 in nursing homes, while others are drawn to Sliwa’s long-term community engagement through the Guardian Angels.

“I think Cuomo is a monster,” said Kimberly Wong, a Mamdani supporter. “He stands for what I believe in; people deserve free buses and housing.” The sentiments reflect a broader discontent with the political status quo, as voters are searching for candidates who resonate with their values and needs.

As early voting unfolds, the stakes are high. “If it’s Mamdani, I’m out of here like a bat out of hell,” warned one Lower East Side voter, illustrating the heightened emotions surrounding the election. Voters across various boroughs are eager to make their voices heard, affirming that this election could reshape city and national politics.

With the first day of early voting marking a critical moment in the 2025 NYC mayoral race, the city watches closely as ballots continue to be cast. The next days will be pivotal as voter sentiment evolves and candidates ramp up their campaigns in the lead-up to the general election.

Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.