NY 12th Congressional District Primary: What You Need To Know

NEW YORK, NY — Democratic Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney is set to defend her seat against upstart challenger Suraj Patel — a former Barack Obama campaign staffer — during Tuesday's primary election in New York.

Both candidates are gunning for the Democratic nomination for New York's 12th Congressional District — which spans much of the east side of Manhattan as well as parts of Queens and Brooklyn. Because the district is overwhelmingly Democrat, whoever wins the primary should have an easy path to victory in the general election.

Maloney, who's running for her 14th term in Congress, is relying on her experience and backing from prominent New York Democrats, whereas Patel has adopted a left-leaning platform that may appeal to progressive voters. Patel has also employed some interesting strategies such as using dating apps to reach voters and could also be in trouble for misusing campaign funds.

Voting Tuesday? Here's what you need to know:

When do I vote?

Polls will open at 6 a.m. and will close at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26.

Who's on the ballot?

Incumbent Carolyn Maloney will face off against her 34-year-old challenger, Suraj Patel. The primary victor has a high chance of winning the election in November, as the 12th District traditionally votes Democratic.

Who can vote?

Only registered Democratic voters who live in the 12th District are eligible to vote in the primary.

Where do I vote?

Registered voters can look up their polling places on the New York City Board of Elections website.

Where can I find out about other New York City races?

Check out Patch's citywide guide to Tuesday's primaries.

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