The long-awaited 2024 election is finally upon us. No matter your voting decisions, we want to encourage you to know how to vote and why your voice matters! For those who are voting absentee, that information will vary based on your state’s rules, but for those who are planning on voting in New York State, keep reading!

Who Can Vote

General election registration for New York State ended on Oct. 26, but be sure to follow up with your state’s registration website to determine if you’re eligible. Here are the basic requirements that make you eligible to vote in the 2024 election:

  • You are a U.S. citizen;
  • You meet your state’s residency requirements, and;
  • You are 18 years of age on or before Election Day.

Where to Vote

Syracuse will have two on-campus polling locations: Huntington Hall and Goldstein Student Center. Make sure to check your New York State Board of Elections portal to confirm that you are eligible to vote at one of these locations. In New York State, voters do not need to bring any form of identification, unless they did not provide identification when they registered.

The Importance of Voting

The 18- to 29-year-old demographic is the least likely to vote in elections, despite being an influential factor in deciding the election outcome. Plus, considering this presidential election is expected to be one of the closest of the century, there is no more important time to have your voice heard. Specifically for Syracuse voters, the New York 22nd Congressional District race will also have an impact on who controls the House of Representatives. Regardless of your political affiliation, there is much at stake in this election, and voting is a civic responsibility you have the right to exercise.

If you have any more questions about voting, refer to the Syracuse University Voting webpage or call the Onondaga County Board of Elections at 315.435.8683. Happy voting!

Written By Chloe Langerman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications