The election season is upon us, and with it comes the responsibility of choosing our leaders. As an expert in politics and elections, I understand the importance of finding reliable information about the candidates running for office in New York. With a plethora of resources available, it can be overwhelming to sift through it all and make an informed decision. But fear not, I am here to guide you through the process.
Understanding the New York Election Process
Before we dive into how to find information about the candidates, let's first understand the election process in New York.The state holds elections every two years for various offices, including governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and state legislators. The next election will take place on November 3rd, 2020. One unique aspect of the New York election is its closed primary system. This means that only registered members of a political party can vote in that party's primary election. For example, if you are a registered Democrat, you can only vote in the Democratic primary.
However, if you are an independent or unaffiliated voter, you can choose which party's primary to participate in.
Where to Find Information about the Candidates
Now that we have a basic understanding of the election process in New York let's explore where you can find information about the candidates running for office.1.Official Government Websites
The first place to start your search is on official government websites. The New York State Board of Elections website is an excellent resource for information on candidates and their campaigns. You can find a list of all the candidates running for office in your district, their party affiliation, and their contact information. You can also access their campaign finance reports, which will give you an idea of who is funding their campaign. Additionally, the New York State Board of Elections website has a section dedicated to voter information, where you can find your polling place, absentee ballot information, and important election dates.2.Local News Outlets
Local News outlets are another valuable source of information about the candidates.They often cover local elections extensively and provide in-depth coverage of the candidates' platforms and positions on various issues. You can also find interviews and debates between the candidates on these news outlets' websites or YouTube channels. Some popular local news outlets in New York include The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and NY1 News.
3.Candidate Websites
Most candidates running for office have their own websites where they share their background, experience, and campaign promises. These websites are a great way to get to know the candidates on a more personal level and understand their vision for the state. You can also find information about their upcoming events and rallies on their websites.4.Social Media
In today's digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for political campaigns.Candidates use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to connect with voters and share their message. You can follow the candidates on social media to stay updated on their campaign activities and get a sense of their personality and values.
Additional Resources
In addition to the above sources, there are a few other resources you can use to gather information about the candidates running for office in New York.1.Ballotpedia
Ballotpedia is a nonpartisan online encyclopedia that provides information on elections, candidates, and ballot measures. You can find detailed profiles of the candidates running for office in New York, including their political experience, endorsements, and campaign finances.2.League of Women Voters
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that aims to educate voters and encourage their participation in the democratic process. They publish a voter guide for each election, which includes information about the candidates' positions on various issues.3.Candidate Forums and Debates
Many organizations and community groups host candidate forums and debates where you can hear directly from the candidates and ask them questions.These events are an excellent opportunity to learn more about the candidates and their plans for the state.
