New York City could be on the brink of a significant electoral shift as voters prepare to decide on a pivotal ballot measure this November. Ballot Proposal 6, if approved, might align the city’s election cycle with presidential election years, a change aimed at increasing voter turnout and amplifying the voice of underserved communities.
The proposal seeks to amend the City Charter, setting both primary and general city elections in even-numbered years. However, this change hinges on further approval—a state constitutional amendment supported by the New York state legislature and a subsequent statewide vote. This proposal follows a recent state law, upheld by New York’s highest court, which allows towns and counties to transition to even-year elections starting next year.
Historically, New York City’s odd-year elections have seen dismal voter participation. The 2021 mayoral election witnessed a record low turnout of just 23 percent of eligible voters, starkly contrasted by the 60 percent turnout in the 2020 presidential election. Over the last five mayoral contests, the average turnout was only 27 percent, while presidential elections saw double that participation.
Odd-year elections exacerbate turnout disparities among minority and young voters. For instance, only 6 percent of voters aged 18 to 29 participated in the 2023 city general elections. In some neighborhoods, the turnout for voters of color was under 13 percent, despite significant races and ballot questions.
The potential benefits of moving to even-year elections are evidenced by other locales. San Francisco’s switch in 2024 saw voter turnout more than double compared to previous odd-year averages. Similar trends were observed in other Californian cities, where young, Latino, and Asian American voter participation significantly increased, reflecting state demographics more accurately.
Moreover, transitioning to even-year elections could streamline election practices and yield financial savings. New York City’s Independent Budget Office estimates a potential saving of $42 million biennially. These funds could help mitigate federal election support cutbacks, allowing local officials to focus on essential tasks like equipment testing and security enhancements during odd years.
Public sentiment supports this shift, with a majority of New Yorkers across various demographics backing even-year elections. These findings align with statewide polls suggesting bipartisan support for the reform as beneficial for New York.
With low and uneven voter turnout being a recognized issue, New York City voters have a critical opportunity to lead change by approving this charter amendment. If successful, Proposal 6 would signal to Albany that city residents are ready for statewide reform.
