What To Know About Ranked-Choice Voting Ahead of The NYC Primary Election

NEW YORK CITY — This month, New Yorkers will head to the polls to cast their votes in the 2025 primary election, using a voting method called ranked-choice voting.

Instead of just voting for one candidate per race, ranked-choice voting gives New Yorkers the option to list their top five choices, in order, for several different elected offices, including mayor, comptroller, city council, public advocate and more.

It's not quite as simple as just casting a vote for one candidate, but the method lets voters have more choice and power at the ballot box. It was first introduced in New York City during the 2021 election season after being approved in 2019.

Here's everything you need to know about ranked-choice voting ahead of primary election day, which is Tuesday, June 24.

How does ranked-choice voting actually work?

Voters can rank up to five candidates in order of preference. A voter's favorite candidate should go in first place. If a candidate receives more than 50 percent of first-choice votes, then they win the primary.

However, if no candidate earns more than 50 percent of first-choice votes, then counting votes will continue in rounds, beginning a week after the primary election, and the candidate with the fewest votes will be eliminated each round until there is just one candidate left.

Do I have to rank a total of 5 candidates?

No, but it's an option. Voters can rank up to five candidates.

Can I rank my favorite candidate more than once?

No, only one candidate can get the first-place spot on the ballot.

Do I have to rank a candidate even if I oppose them?

No — voters who want to prevent a candidate from being elected should not rank them at all. A fifth-place rank is still a vote for a candidate.

When can I expect election results?

The New York City Board of Elections will release unofficial results as they begin to roll in on June 24 after polls close at 9 p.m.

However, if the race is too close to call, then counting all of the votes in rounds could take weeks. The race will not be officially called by the Board of Elections until all absentee and military ballots are counted.

Candidates will want to declare victory as soon as they can, which could be on election night, if there is a wide enough lead.

Can I practice ranked-choice voting ahead of the election?

Yes — here's a ranked-choice voting practice ballot made by the team at NYC Votes, where you can vote for your favorite animal.

See what's on your ballot here.

The New York City primary election is on June 24. Early voting starts on June 14 and lasts until June 22. Learn more here.