This week, Tuesday (June 24th) is the primary election day in New York City, coinciding with a peak heatwave. The temperature is expected to soar above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 39 degrees Celsius) on that day. Political observers believe that this may work against former Governor Andrew Cuomo and instead benefit socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who appeals to young progressive voters.
If an emergency high-temperature situation is declared on that day, the voter turnout is likely to significantly decrease. This could pose a challenge for candidates who rely on Election Day voting, typically from older and more moderate voters. Democratic Party senior advisor and former mayor Bill de Blasio’s aide Jon Paul Lupo analyzed this issue in an interview with the New York Post.
The early voting turnout in New York City has reached a historic high, as some voters have already recognized the impact of the scorching heat and opted to vote early.
In response, Jason Elan, spokesperson for Cuomo’s campaign, expressed confidence that even with the high temperatures, New Yorkers will still turn out to vote for Cuomo. “We encourage voters to cast their votes early to beat the heat, but we also anticipate a robust turnout on Election Day because New Yorkers are enthusiastic about voting for Cuomo,” Elan stated.
To assist voters in coping with the heat, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a new law last Saturday allowing voters waiting in line at polling stations to receive drinking water and simple snacks. The law overturns the previous ban on distributing food and beverages at polling stations.
“Our democratic system truly functions when all eligible voters can smoothly cast their votes,” stated Hochul. “Providing water to voters waiting in line is a common-sense measure to ensure that everyone exercises their voting rights in a comfortable and safe environment.”
Hochul also urged voters to cast their ballots early to avoid the extreme heat. “Extreme high temperatures are a leading ‘killer’ related to weather-related deaths, but with preparation, communication, and prevention, lives can be saved. We are mobilizing the full force of the government to protect the safety of New Yorkers, especially vulnerable groups, while also encouraging voters to take the opportunity to vote early.”