Voting lies at the core of political engagement. Every New Yorker should have access to free, fair, and convenient access to the ballot in order to participate in democracy. NKD supports a platform of expanding voting access in New York state and New York City, particularly to those historically disenfranchised and underrepresented in the electorate. In pursuit of that goal, NKD endorses the following key policy reforms for New York State and New York City.
Simplified Registration: Registering to vote should be easy and accessible. Therefore,
1. Registration should be automatic for all eligible voters, and made through any point of contact with the City or State, including but not limited to the DMV.
2. Registration should be available online.
3. Same day enrollment should also be available for political parties, assuming there was no prior registration in a party.
4. Voters should be allowed to correct registration errors at the poll.
5. Voters should not be required to show their ID at the polls unless they did not provide ID when they registered to vote and it is their first time voting. Arbitrary documentation requirements can complicate and delay registration and voting processes. Proof of citizenship should not be required for voter registration.
Resources for Young Voters: Young voters form habits that last a lifetime, and are intellectually capable of making informed voting decisions. NKD supports the enfranchisement of young voters, but resources must be provided to these voters, so they can effectively participate. Schools should be required to regularly provide civics classes, distribute information about voting deadlines and upcoming elections, and employ dedicated staff to ensure students are educated about elections and voting rights.
Right to Vote with Criminal Record: The right to vote should be provided regardless of criminal status, especially since laws that restrict voting access based on criminal status overwhelmingly affect people of color and the poor. NKD supports full voting rights for those convicted of a felony, those awaiting trial, and those currently serving a sentence. Reregistration should not be required. Registration information and voting facilities should be provided in jails to allow access to those currently serving a sentence.
Increased Voter Engagement: Odd-year elections in NYC have traditionally caused lower voter turnout and increased cost. NKD supports efforts to consolidate elections into the even years to the extent practicable.
As new research and policy analysis becomes available, NKD may update or revise our position as needed.
Last updated August 2025.