Sunday was the last day for New Yorkers to cast an early ballot ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The New York State Board of Elections released the latest unofficial totals, showing that a total of 1,705,698 early‑voting ballots have been submitted statewide.

County‑by‑county snapshot

Below is a breakdown of the early‑voting totals reported for several upstate counties as of October 31, the eighth day of early voting:

• Albany County: 3,917 ballots cast on Oct 31, bringing the county’s cumulative early‑voting total to 37,396.
• Columbia County: 826 ballots on Oct 31; total early votes now stand at 7,888.
• Fulton County: 339 ballots on Oct 31; cumulative total of 3,090.
• Montgomery County: 408 ballots on Oct 31; total early votes of 3,525.
• Rensselaer County: 1,618 ballots on Oct 31; cumulative total of 14,013.
• Saratoga County: 3,030 ballots on Oct 31; total early votes now at 27,320.
• Schenectady County: 1,764 ballots on Oct 31; cumulative total of 15,878.
• Schoharie County: 324 ballots on Oct 31; total early votes of 2,643.
• Warren County: 729 ballots on Oct 31; cumulative total of 9,037.
• Washington County: 469 ballots on Oct 31; total early votes now at 4,534.

When the numbers from New York City are excluded, the early‑voting total for the rest of the state reaches 1,132,912. Adding the city’s contribution brings the statewide figure to the reported 1,705,698.

What the numbers mean for voters

These figures illustrate a robust level of participation in the early‑voting process, giving residents ample opportunity to cast their ballots before Election Day. Early voting helps reduce congestion at polling places, offers greater flexibility for working families, and aligns with the administration’s emphasis on expanding voter access.

Local election officials continue to encourage anyone who has not yet voted to take advantage of the remaining in‑person early‑voting sites or to submit an absentee ballot, where eligible. The Board of Elections reminds voters to verify polling locations and required identification ahead of time.

Looking ahead

With early voting now closed, the focus shifts to the final weeks of the campaign season. Candidates across the state will intensify outreach efforts, and voters can expect a flurry of advertisements, town‑hall meetings, and community events as the November election approaches.

All New Yorkers are urged to stay informed about their voting options, confirm their registration status, and plan ahead to ensure their voice is heard on Election Day.

Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.