New Yorkers have gone to the polls throughout the day ready to carry out their civic responsibility and right by voting in today’s primary elections. However, many were denied the clear, easy process they deserved. There have been reports that voters were faced with confusion, lack of information and difficulties.

The Board of Elections demonstrated a troubling inability to fully execute a new system that they have had months to prepare for. The changes were designed to improve the voting process and make it smoother. At some polling sites this did happen. But because of poor execution, there were many new problems as well. Overall, New Yorkers’ experiences today do not bode well for the upcoming general elections, and the Board of Elections must focus on correcting any problems before November.

The City Council will hold a hearing in the coming weeks to examine any problems that did arise today and what changes might be made to improve the process in the coming months. Many questions were raised today and the Council will demand answers.

Voters deserve a smooth, easy to navigate voting process and we will work with the Board of Elections in the coming months to ensure that happens in November.

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