[On Nov. 5 and before through early voting], New Yorkers head to the polls to participate in this year’s elections. Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and a critical part of our civic responsibility as American citizens. We’re blessed to have a system of government that allows the electorate the opportunity to make significant […]
[On Nov. 5 and before through early voting], New Yorkers head to the polls to participate in this year’s elections. Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and a critical part of our civic responsibility as American citizens. We’re blessed to have a system of government that allows the electorate the opportunity to make significant changes in governance, social issues, and economic policies, and that is why the Assembly Minority Conference has fought so hard to ensure the safety, security, and integrity of our elections. This year, New Yorkers will not only be asked to cast a vote for president, but they also will have a number of state and local races to consider as well as important ballot propositions. I encourage all New Yorkers to educate themselves on ballot issues before they head to the polls. Understanding each measure allows you to evaluate their potential impact and ensures your vote aligns with your values and priorities. Be sure to read each proposition carefully and check both sides of the ballot. Every race matters no matter where it’s placed on the paper. In New York state, there are a few different ways you can vote. New rules allow for expanded mail-in voting, and registered voters were able to request a ballot by Oct. 26 to return before Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5. Further, New Yorkers could also cast an in-person ballot between Saturday, Oct. 26 and Sunday, Nov. 3 at voting locations in their county. And of course, polls will be open on Election Day, from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. While election season can be contentious and filled with heated debates about the direction of our state and nation, it is also a time for us to come together and participate in the process of selecting our representatives. This system has kept our nation strong, fiscally sound, and vibrant. We have elected officials representing us from business, education, health care, agriculture, and everything in between. We have representatives whose backgrounds are as diverse as we are. This can only happen thanks to the representative democracy we are all about to participate in again. Election season is an exciting time, and I look forward to casting my ballot. I hope you all get out there, vote and be heard.
William (Will) A. Barclay, 55, Republican, is the New York Assembly minority leader and represents the 120th New York Assembly District, which encompasses all of Oswego County, as well as parts of Jefferson and Cayuga counties.