Annually I use this space each Autumn to remind folks to exercise their most precious right in our democracy — our right to vote.  Election Day 2025 takes place Tuesday, November 4, and in New York early voting starts Saturday, October 25.  In New York City, you can find your poll site or early voting location at this link.

45 years ago this month I first editorialized about the importance of voting as editor-in-chief of Hofstra Law School’s CONSCIENCE. I share the opening paragraphs  which remain as relative today:

Many imagine politics to be the art of getting elected and, once elected, staying in office; but there is more to politics than simply running for office. Politics describes the processes whereby people, individuals and groups, interact to provide for the needs of society.

Everything we do is affected by politics: garbage 

collection, snow removal, drinkable water, available electricity, driving age. All are factors influenced by decisions made at one or more of the many levels of government.

Whether you live in New York City, across the Hudson in New Jersey, or in suburban counties north or east, your votes can make a difference.  Waste not!

As to the outcome November 4 (or thereafter since counting might take longer) in New York City, my annual post election talk occurs November 12 (Email Lisa Waterman if you want to join us.).