UPDATE: Voting in Ulster County is underway and going smoothly, with 18,806 votes cast as of 3 p.m. today. Democratic Election Commissioner Ashley Torres confirmed that while voter turnout is slightly lower compared to previous elections, early voting has surged significantly, accounting for a 23.18% increase from the last local elections.
At the Andy Murphy Midtown Neighborhood Center in Kingston, residents like Heidi Walker are making their voices heard. “It’s a responsibility. It’s part of citizenship that you come and vote,” Walker stated after casting her ballot. The enthusiasm among voters is palpable, with many bringing their children to inspire the next generation of civic engagement.
Torres reported that the biggest complaint from polling stations is a shortage of “I Voted” stickers, a positive sign indicating high participation. “We’re running around delivering more,” she noted, suggesting that the polling process is running effectively despite the connectivity issues affecting some districts.
Early voting has already set a record with 11,637 ballots cast, an increase of 2,190 compared to the 9,447 early votes in the previous election cycle. This trend of increased early voting is being observed across party lines, with 61.23% of early voters identifying as Democrats, while 17.19% are Republicans.
The urgency of this election is not lost on local leaders. Kingston Alderman Bryant Drew Andrews, who is not seeking reelection, emphasized the importance of participation: “It’s crucial that we model for our young people and have a voice to keep each other accountable.” He invoked the spirit of Ubuntu, a philosophy promoting community and unity, urging residents to recognize the significance of their vote.
Polling places are expected to remain busy until the polls close at 9 p.m. tonight. As the day progresses, the total number of ballots cast may rise, contributing to a competitive atmosphere leading up to the close of voting.
The current shift in local election scheduling marks a historic change, as most elections will now take place in even-numbered years following a recent court ruling. This year specifically affects candidates for the 23 seats on the Ulster County Legislature, many of whom will now run for a one-year term instead of the traditional two.
As we await final results, Ulster County residents are energized and engaged, proving that every vote counts in shaping the future of their community. Stay tuned for updates on final turnout numbers and election results as they become available.
