New York City mayoral election day is one week away: All you need to know about the candidates, how voting works and polls

New York City voters are just days away from deciding who will lead the city for the next term. Election day is set for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, with early voting already under way.

This year’s election is one of the most interesting of recent times; shaped by concerns over affordable housing, public safety, education, and economic opportunity, the three candidates offer utterly different prospects for the city.

With everything from free bus passes to former sexual scandals on the agenda for those in the fight, this election promises to be one of the most influential in recent times.

Zohran Mamdani: hope for many

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee, has emerged as a leading figure in this year’s mayoral race. As a first-term assemblyman from Queens, Mamdani is known for his forward-thinking, progressive policies, including proposals that help ordinary New Yorkers in a world of rising costs: rent freezes, a free bus service, and universal child care.

A loud Trump critic, he advocates for funding these initiatives through increased corporate taxes and a flat tax on high earners, which is why he’ll never get mainstream media support.

Despite this, Mamdani’s incredible social media campaign has propelled him to the top: with an emphasis on affordability, equity, and community engagement, he has resonated strongly with younger voters and those seeking real change for working-class people in the city.

Andrew Cuomo: a Comeback attempt amid controversy

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is running as an independent candidate, aiming for a political comeback after his tenure ended amid sexual harassment allegations. He also has to fight against the critics who claim he withheld data on COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes during his administration.

Recent polls indicate that Cuomo has narrowed the gap with Mamdani, though he still trails by a double-digit margin. For as long as his candidacy continues to spark debate, Cuomo will divide the voters down the middle of New York.

Curtis Sliwa: the Republican contender

Curtis Sliwa, the Republican nominee and founder of the Guardian Angels, is emphasizing public safety and law enforcement in his campaign. While he has a dedicated base, his platform is considered by some to be more limited in scope compared to his opponents. Sliwa’s focus on crime reduction appeals to certain voters, but questions remain about his ability to address broader issues facing the city.

How to vote in the NYC mayoral election:

1. Check Your Registration Status

• Make sure you are registered to vote. You can verify your registration on the New York City Board of Elections website.
• If you are not registered, you must do so by October 10, 2025, to vote in the general election.

2. Know the Voting Dates

• Early Voting: October 25 – November 2, 2025.
• Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

3. Find Your Polling Location

• Use the NYC Board of Elections website to find your early voting or Election Day polling site.
• Locations may differ for early voting and Election Day, so check carefully.

Polls are scheduled to be open during the following times:

• Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Monday, Oct. 27, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 31, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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