The political dust has settled, and the real work starts now. Early in-person voting begins this Saturday, Oct. 24, for voters in both New Jersey and New York City. It’s not just about checking a box; the stakes in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District could actually flip control of Congress for the rest of President Trump’s term.
Polls across the state will operate from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 3. But if you want to beat the lines and get it over with, you have your chance starting Saturday morning. The system is set up for you to vote by mail or head to a poll site, but don’t wait until the last minute to figure out where you need to be.
The Marquee Battle in New Jersey
Everyone is watching the race between Rep. Tom Kean Jr. and challenger Rebecca Bennett. Kean, a two-term Republican from a famous political family, is fighting to keep his seat. He missed over 100 votes earlier this year while treating depression, and his absence has become a major talking point. Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot and healthcare executive, is pushing hard to unseat him.
Republicans hold a 19,000-voter advantage in the district, but pollsters call this a toss-up that might lean Democratic. If the Democrats pull off a win here, the ripple effects could be massive.
This isn’t just a local skirmish; it’s a bellwether for the nation. The outcome may decide whether Republicans or Democrats control the Senate and House majority. For New Yorkers and New Jerseyans alike, this race proves that local elections have national consequences.
What New Yorkers Need to Know
While New Jersey fights for Congress, New York City voters are deciding on five city charter amendments backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Early voting starts Saturday, Oct. 24, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 1. Just remember, there is no early voting on Monday, Nov. 2. That’s the Monday right before Election Day, so plan accordingly.
During the early voting period, most polls are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are exceptions, though. The city Board of Elections is distributing special stickers; hours on Oct. 27 and 28 are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., while Oct. 29 runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vote on Halloween to receive a spooky sticker with cobwebs, or get a sporty one if you vote on the day of the New York City Marathon.
Don’t Get Tripped Up at the Polls
Issues can come up, and you need to know your rights. If something goes wrong at your polling site, stay calm. “Ask a poll worker for help first,” said Rauh, who advises voters not to leave without casting their ballot, according to the City NYC. If you are in line when the polls close, you are legally allowed to stay and vote. Don’t let a disruption stop you from having your say.
These off-year elections matter more than people think. They set the tone for the future. “The state Legislature [elections] will just show us where the two parties stand within New Jersey at that point a year out from the presidential,” she said, according to Gothamist.
Whether you are in Bernards Township or Brooklyn, the message is the same. Show up. The system is ready for you, and the consequences are real. Do not let a busy schedule keep you from your civic duty.
Early voting begins this Saturday, Oct. 24, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 1, with Election Day falling on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
This is opinion and commentary from the RapForMayor team.
