Voting is the process by which individuals make decisions regarding issues and candidates. In smaller organizations, such as a workplace, voting can be conducted informally with a show of hands or voice vote, or more formally through a ballot. In larger entities, such as countries, voting is typically confined to periodic elections.
An individual who votes in a presidential election is an elector, and each state is allocated the number of electoral votes equal to its U.S. senators and representatives. The electors meet in their states on the first Monday after the second Wednesday in December and cast their votes for president and vice president.
A voter may cast a ballot by mail, in-person at an early voting polling place, on Election Day or at one of the county’s voting centers (formerly called “vote centers”). A person whose name does not appear on the list for a given precinct is allowed to fill out an affidavit and submit it in order to vote.
Generally, voters mark their preferences on a paper ballot. These preferences might include marking a candidate, or supporting a particular proposition. It is also possible to leave the ballot blank or mark an official none of the above option, as an act of protest.
A voter who wants to vote absentee or early must register at least 30 days prior to an election. Register online, by mail or in person at one of the Board’s offices. The next General Election is November 4, 2025. Learn more at NYC Votes.
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