New Yorkers looking to ensure their votes count in the upcoming November election have a direct line to help, thanks to Attorney General Letitia James' office. In an announcement made by the Attorney General's Office, a special Election Protection Hotline will be available to voters starting from October 25, during the early voting period, right through Election Day on November 4. This hotline aims to quickly resolve a range of voting issues including problems with absentee, early mail ballots, or in-person voting struggles.
The hotline comes as part of a broader initiative to support and to protect voter's rights within the state. "Our right to vote is the foundation of our democracy, and every voter should be able to freely exercise that right," James stated. The hotline number, (866) 390-2992, will be staffed by OAG attorneys and employees, and is set to operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the early voting days. On Election Day, the service hours extend from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with additional hours on November 3 and 5. Voters can also submit complaints online, a service available at any time for those who require it, as per the Attorney General's Office.
Historically, the OAG has run this hotline since 2012, addressing hundreds to thousands of voter problems each election cycle. The team has worked collaboratively with local election officials to mitigate issues and, where needed, taken legal action to uphold voting laws and ensure equitable access to early voting, as per New York law. A testament to its continued commitment, the staff behind this year's hotline includes a dedicated team of legal professionals, from section chiefs to legal assistant trainees, all listed in the Attorney General's Office announcement.
All measures are taken by the Attorney General's Office to guarantee accessible elections for every registered New Yorker. Voters have the distinct right to cast their ballots unobstructed and free from any coercion or intimidation, ensuring that democracy is upheld on every level. The OAG also vows to promptly receive and to respond to all election complaints related to statutes it enforces, including the New York Voting Rights Act.
