By Ericka O’Connell, The Beat | The Roosevelt Island Daily
Hi friends — just a quick note from The Beat: early voting for the 2025 General Election begins tomorrow, Saturday, October 25. Whether you’re new to Roosevelt Island or a longtime neighbor, this is our first big chance to make our voices heard this election season.
Early Voting Dates & Hours
- Early voting runs October 25 through November 2. (NYC Votes Calendar)
- Hours vary by day — some days open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m., others run later into the evening.
- Election Day itself is Tuesday, November 4, with polls open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. (vote.nyc)
Before You Go
- Check your polling site: Your early voting location may be different from your Election Day site.
- Bring ID or proof of address if it’s your first time voting or if your registration changed. (on.nyc.gov/Voting)
- Voting in person after requesting a mail ballot? You can still do it — just ask for an affidavit ballot at your site. (abc7ny.com)
How Early Voting Strengthens Our Voice
When we show up early, we make voting easier for everyone — fewer lines, more flexibility, and smoother Election Days. Here on Roosevelt Island, early voting means our community’s voice gets counted early and counted strong.
So, let’s make this weekend a celebration of civic pride. Bring a neighbor, grab a coffee, and vote early — because every ballot cast is a voice lifted for our island and our city.
The Line That Didn’t Land
I stood in the back of Good Shepherd Chapel on the evening of April 15, 2026, at the Steam Plant Demolition Town Hall, watching people adjust scarves and jackets before the meeting began. Benjamin Jones, President and CEO of RIOC, thanked us for attending and, without a pause, said he was “pleased to host tonight’s town hall on the city’s demolition of its steam plant.” The demolition, in other words, was not up for discussion.
