Even the most civic-minded New Yorkers may become exasperated next year when they are asked to vote in four separate elections. This extra burden on voters is yet another sign of the enduring dysfunction in Albany. New York State lawmakers created this problem because it’s easier on the politicians, even though it’s costly and harder on the voters. New York’s presidential primary is set for April 19. Congressional primaries are expected to be held on June 28, and state legislative primaries on Sept. 13, with the general election on Nov. 8. There is no reason the state primary can’t be held on the same day as the congressional primary, thus eliminating the extra election and saving the state $50 million.
Lawmakers should change the election schedule as soon as they return to Albany on Jan. 6. But that’s only one step in what’s needed to make it easier to register and to vote in New York. Here are more ideas, many already in place in other states.
— Allow early voting, at least a week before the election. This is one of the most important reforms because it could alleviate long lines at the polls, and reduce the stress of problems like voting machine failures or scheduling conflicts on Election Day. A lengthened voting period should include at least one weekend, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo should rally support for this idea.
Full Article: Voter Fatigue in New York – The New York Times.