Voting in Ulster County proceeded smoothly on November 7, 2023, with local residents actively participating in the electoral process. Democratic Election Commissioner Ashley Torres reported that while voter turnout was “a bit lower” than in previous elections, early voting numbers indicated a positive trend for civic engagement.
At the Andy Murphy Midtown Neighborhood Center in Kingston, local voters expressed their commitment to participating in every election. Heidi Walker, a Kingston resident, emphasized the importance of voting as a civic duty. “It’s a responsibility. It’s a part of citizenship that you come and vote. Big elections and small elections,” she stated after casting her ballot.
Local officials also highlighted the significance of voting. Bryant Drew Andrews, the Alderman for Ward 7, who is not seeking reelection, echoed Walker’s sentiments. “All elections are important. It’s important for us to model for our young people and to have a voice in order to keep each other accountable,” he said. Andrews referenced the spirit of Ubuntu, a philosophy advocating community and togetherness, which he believes is vital in the electoral process.
Families participated in the election as well. Nicola and Mike Battaglia brought their children, Avery and Oliver, to the polls, underscoring the importance of teaching future generations about civic engagement. “We vote in every election and I think it’s important that we show our kids how to participate in their local government,” Nicola Battaglia remarked.
As of 15:00, Torres reported that 18,806 votes had been cast. She noted that this figure was subject to change as some districts had not yet reported due to connectivity issues. Despite a slight decrease in overall turnout, when early voting numbers were factored in, the overall participation appeared to be slightly higher than in previous elections.
The Ulster County Board of Elections announced that early voting had already surpassed the numbers from the last local elections held two years ago. This year, 11,637 voters participated in early voting, a notable increase from 9,447 in 2021, representing a rise of 23.18%.
Party affiliation played a role in early voting trends. Of the early voters, 7,125 were registered Democrats, accounting for 61.23% of the total, while 2,000 Republicans participated, representing 17.19%. Additionally, 1,984 non-enrolled voters and 626 voters from other parties contributed to the early voting numbers.
In a significant shift for local elections, a recent ruling by New York’s highest court has confirmed the constitutionality of a new state law moving most local elections to even-numbered years. This change will affect candidates vying for 23 seats on the Ulster County Legislature, as well as local officials such as town supervisors and clerks, who will now run for one-year terms instead of two.
Polls in Ulster County are set to close at 21:00, allowing voters until that time to make their voices heard in this local election.
