Early Voting Peaks in New York City Primary Races as Turnout Crosses 115,000

Early voting in New York City’s primary elections entered its final weekend on Saturday, with voters heading to polling stations across the five boroughs, including major sites such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

According to the New York City Board of Elections, more than 115,000 ballots have already been cast during the early voting period. Manhattan leads turnout with nearly 50,000 votes, followed by Brooklyn with more than 34,000, Queens with nearly 22,000, the Bronx with over 10,000, and Staten Island with more than 2,000 votes.

The early voting period covers several closely watched primary contests, including races in Congressional Districts 7, 10, 12, and 13, drawing significant political attention across the city.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani was among those who voted on Saturday at the Metropolitan Museum of Art polling site. Mamdani, who previously lived in Astoria before moving to Gracie Mansion, is now eligible to vote on the Upper East Side.

While Mamdani has endorsed candidates in some races, he declined to reveal his choice in the highly competitive NY-12 congressional race to replace Representative Jerry Nadler.

“I’m keeping my vote between myself and the ballot and that incredible pen the Board of Elections hands out to every voter,” Mamdani said.

Voting centers remained open on Saturday until 5 p.m., with Sunday marking the final day of early voting. Polls will then close on Monday before reopening on Tuesday, June 23, for Election Day.

The NY-12 and NY-13 congressional races have been among the most closely watched contests, featuring intense campaigning and multiple debates in the final stretch. Political analysts say turnout in early voting could play a decisive role in determining outcomes in several districts.

Election officials are urging residents to participate ahead of Election Day as campaigns enter their final phase across the city.