Voting in Ulster County is proceeding smoothly, according to local officials, as residents engage in the electoral process on March 15, 2024. As of 15:00, the county reported 18,806 votes cast at polling places, a figure that reflects partial reporting due to some connectivity issues. Despite a slight decrease in turnout compared to previous elections, the early voting numbers indicate a growing engagement among voters.
Community Participation Highlights Importance of Voting
Many residents took the opportunity to express their civic duty at the polls. Heidi Walker from Kingston emphasized the importance of voting in all elections, stating, “It’s a responsibility. It’s a part of citizenship.” After casting her ballot at the Andy Murphy Midtown Neighborhood Center, she noted the significance of participating even when there may not be a preferred candidate.
Another voter, Bryant Drew Andrews, a Kingston Alderman not seeking re-election, echoed similar sentiments about the importance of civic engagement. “All elections are important,” he said. “People died for this right and continue to die.” Andrews drew inspiration from the “spirit of Ubuntu,” a philosophy aimed at fostering community unity, which he believes is essential in today’s society.
Families also took part in the voting process, as seen with Nicola and Mike Battaglia, who brought their children to the polls. “We vote in every election and think it’s important that we show our kids how to participate in their local government,” Nicola Battaglia remarked.
Election Officials Report Progress and Challenges
Ashley Torres, the Democratic Election Commissioner for Ulster County, confirmed that the voting process was running efficiently. She noted that while overall turnout was “a bit lower,” the early voting figures suggested a positive trend. Early voting accounted for a significant part of the participation, with reports indicating that 11,637 early votes were cast this year, compared to 9,447 during the last local elections in 2023, marking an increase of 23.18%.
As of the reported time, Torres mentioned that the biggest concern from polling places was a shortage of “I Voted” stickers, a light-hearted sign of a busy election day. “That’s a good sign that we’re having a good day,” she added.
The statistics released by the Ulster County Board of Elections highlighted that early voting participation cut across party lines. This year, 7,125 Democrats accounted for 61.23% of early voters, while 2,000 Republicans represented 17.19%. Non-enrolled voters contributed 1,984 votes, and other party affiliations combined for the remaining 626 votes.
The upcoming changes to voting schedules will mark a significant shift in local elections, transitioning most from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years, as per a recent ruling from the state’s highest court. This adjustment is expected to impact candidates vying for seats in the Ulster County Legislature and local town elections.
As the polls prepare to close at 21:00, the community reflects on the importance of participation in shaping local governance. Voter engagement remains a crucial element of democracy, and today’s turnout reflects an ongoing commitment to civic responsibility in Ulster County.