New Yorkers Surge to Polls for Early Voting in Mayor’s Race

UPDATE: New Yorkers are flocking to the polls, with a staggering 79,409 voters casting their ballots on the first day of early voting for the 2025 NYC mayoral election on October 25, 2025. This surge represents an unprecedented turnout compared to previous elections, signaling a heightened voter engagement that could dramatically impact the race.

Manhattan led the charge with 24,046 voters, a dramatic increase from just 4,563 on the first day of early voting in 2021. Brooklyn followed closely with 22,105 voters, more than doubling their 3,751 participants from the last general election. Queens reported 19,045 voters, while the Bronx and Staten Island saw 7,793 and 6,420 respectively. The overall turnout eclipses the 15,418 voters checked in on the first day of early voting in the last general election.

As the race heats up, Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic Socialist front-runner, is capturing significant momentum, with many voters expressing frustration toward the traditional political landscape. Voters have been vocal about their desire for change, with a widespread sentiment favoring Mamdani’s progressive policies. “We need a change right now. Let’s give him a break,” said Marcia, a Brooklyn resident concerned about crime and safety.

Conversely, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, faces backlash over his handling of the COVID-19 crisis, particularly in nursing homes. Voter sentiment against Cuomo is palpable, with one voter stating, “He has blood on his hands.” Despite this, Cuomo maintains pockets of support, particularly in the Bronx and Lower East Side, complicating the race for Mamdani.

The early voting period has sparked a lively discussion among New Yorkers, as seen at polling stations across the city. Some voters expressed disillusionment with both major parties, while others rallied behind Mamdani’s vision for a more inclusive New York. “I think Cuomo is a monster,” said Kimberly Wong, a voter who supports Mamdani’s progressive agenda.

As the election approaches, all eyes are on the implications of this early turnout. Will Mamdani’s surge translate into a decisive victory? Voter engagement could reshape the political landscape in New York City, particularly among young and first-time voters eager for progressive change.

With early voting continuing, the momentum is palpable, and the stakes are high. New Yorkers are making their voices heard, and this election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent memory. Stay tuned for more updates as the race unfolds.