In just a few days, New Yorkers will head to the polls to participate in this year’s elections. Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and a critical part of our civic responsibility as American citizens. We’re blessed to have a system of government that allows the electorate the opportunity to make significant changes in governance, social issues and economic policies, and that is why the Assembly Minority Conference has fought so hard to ensure the safety, security and integrity of our elections.

This year, New Yorkers will not only be asked to cast a vote for president, but there are a number of state and local races to consider as well as important ballot propositions. I encourage all New Yorkers to educate themselves on ballot issues before you head to the polls. Understanding each measure allows you to evaluate their potential impact and ensures your vote aligns with your values and priorities. Be sure to read each proposition carefully and check both sides of the ballot. Every race matters no matter where it’s placed on the paper.

In New York, there are a few different ways you can vote. New rules allow for expanded mail-in voting, and registered voters can request a ballot by Oct. 26 to return before Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5. Ballot requests can be made by mail or online and can be returned to any early voting location. Further, New Yorkers can also cast an in-person ballot between Saturday, Oct. 26 and Sunday, Nov. 3 at voting locations in their county. And of course, polls will be open on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

If you have any questions about the voting process or guidelines, the New York State Board of Elections has plenty of useful information. You can also contact your local board for information specific to your voting district. It’s always better to have all your concerns addressed ahead of time, so be sure to use these resources to your advantage.

While election season can be contentious and filled with heated debates about the direction of our state and nation, it is also a time for us to come together and participate in the process of selecting our representatives. This system has kept our nation strong, fiscally sound and vibrant. We have elected officials representing us from business, education, healthcare, agriculture and everything in between. We have representatives whose backgrounds are as diverse as we are. This can only happen thanks to the representative democracy we are all about to participate in again.

Election season is an exciting time, and I look forward to casting my ballot. I hope you all get out there, vote and be heard. I know I will, and I will see you at the polls!