Election Day 2024: Your Complete Guide to Voting Times, School Closures, and Record Turnout
As millions of Americans head to the polls today in what’s shaping up to be a historic election, unprecedented early voting numbers and a tight presidential race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have set the stage for a dramatic Election Day finish.
More than a million voters across the tri-state area have already cast their ballots during early voting, contributing to what experts are calling a remarkable turnout. This election year has shattered previous spending records, with $2.5 billion spent on Senate races and nearly $1 billion on House campaigns.
Polling Hours and Locations
Different deadlines will be set for voters across the tri-state area to cast their ballots:
- New York: Polls open 6 AM–9 PM
- New Jersey: Polls open 6 AM–8 PM.
- Connecticut: Polls open 6 AM–8 PM.
Remember: If you’re in line before closing time, you have the right to vote, even if polls have officially closed.
School Closures and City Services
Today’s closure of New York City Public Schools will provide students with a day off, while many school buildings will serve as polling locations. For those 17 and older, there’s an opportunity to earn $250 working as student poll workers.
Other important service changes include:
- No trash pickup in NYC.
- Suspended alternate side parking
- Closed city and state courts
- Closed government offices
- Open federal offices and public libraries
Presidential Race Remains Tight
The latest NBC poll shows an incredibly close race, with both candidates tied at 49% support. A notable gender divide has emerged:
- 67% of Harris supporters are women.
- 69% of Trump supporters are men.
Early voting trends show Harris leading by about 7 points among those who voted early, while Trump holds a 16-point advantage among Election Day voters.
What’s at stake?
This election will determine whether the new White House has allies or skeptics in Congress. Gridlock and limited productivity marked the previous congressional session, making the outcome of today’s races particularly significant for future policymaking.
Voter ID Requirements and Tips
First-time voters need to bring identification, while returning applicants only need to provide a signature. Voters should:
- Use blue or black ink.
- Check their designated polling location before heading out.
- Review their sample ballot in advance.
- Only fill in one circle per column, even if candidates appear multiple times under different parties.
Looking Ahead
With such razor-thin margins, election officials warn that final results may not be available tonight. Each state has different rules for counting early and mail-in ballots, which could delay the final tally in close races.
Workers in New York can get up to two hours of paid time off to vote, though they should check their eligibility with their employers.
As this historic election unfolds, stay tuned for updates throughout the day as millions of Americans make their voices heard at the ballot box.
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