On this November 7, 2023, New Yorkers are at the polls in an election primarily focused on local governance. Despite the absence of high-profile gubernatorial or mayoral races, critical positions such as City Council seats, local Supreme Court justices, district attorneys, and judges are on the ballot, along with two significant constitutional amendments concerning school district debt and sewage projects.
Among the races drawing attention, City Council District 47 is a noteworthy clash due to redistricting that pits incumbents Justin Brannan and Ari Kagan against each other. District 19 also spotlights a tight rematch between Republican Vickie Palladino and Democrat Tony Avella, while District 43 has no incumbent, marking a three-way race. In the Bronx, City Council District 13’s contest reflects strong partisan efforts with Democrat Marjorie Velázquez challenged by Republican Kristy Marmorato. The city’s district attorney positions are up for grabs, with Queens DA Melinda Katz facing Republican Michael Mossa, whereas the Bronx and Staten Island DAs are running unopposed.
Election Day carries the potential for some shifts in power dynamics, as Republicans aim to strengthen their influence in a historically Democrat-led council. The redistricting has also led to the creation of an “Asian opportunity” district, reflecting demographic changes, where Democrat Susan Zhuang faces off against Republican Ying Tan.
Aside from council races, voters are presented with two city-wide proposals. The first proposes removing the debt limit for small city school districts, potentially allowing for greater borrowing power to finance educational improvements. The second concerns the fiscal handling of sewage projects, specifically whether to extend an exclusion for these from the city’s debt limit.
Voting can be done in person on Election Day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., or via absentee ballots, which must be postmarked by the election day and can also be dropped off in person by the deadline. Information on polling locations and registration can be accessed online, and New Yorkers can also take advantage of early voting options that were available through November 5.
Criminal justice reform advocate Yusef Salaam stands out among candidates after running unopposed for the New York City Council in District 9, representing a significant moment as an exoneree from the Central Park jogger case.
Public safety, housing affordability, the city’s response to an influx of migrants, and reactions to international events like the situation in Israel are among the chief concerns for voters. The election outcomes may also reflect broader political trends in New York, where recent elections have shown a narrowing gap between Democratic and Republican candidates, indicating a volatile electorate in the state.
New York’s Election Day may not have the dazzle of a presidential election but remains a critical moment for local decision-making, impacting everyday issues from education to infrastructure and law enforcement.
