October 26, 2025

The US is buzzing with election excitement! The Republican Party, led by President Donald Trump, and the opposition Democrats are gearing up for big tests in next year's midterm elections. The political stage is set as early voting kicked off in three key states. Starting Saturday, New York City and New Jersey opened voting spots for some of the year's most watched battles: the NYC mayor's race and New Jersey’s gubernatorial fight. Meanwhile, Virginia voters began early voting on September 19 for their governor election. Early voting in Virginia runs till November 1, while New York City and New Jersey have until November 2 to cast their ballots. Then, on November 4, Election Day arrives with polling places open wide to seal the deal. In New York City, voters face a fascinating choice. Democrat Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist with vibrant ideas like free childcare, free buses, and rent freezes, has energized the liberal crowd. Facing him are Republican Curtis Sliwa and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who’s now running as an independent after stepping down in 2021 over harassment charges. The sitting mayor, Eric Adams, has dropped out and thrown his weight behind Cuomo. The NYC race is spicy! Cuomo calls Mamdani’s plans "naive and financially irresponsible," and they clash over Mamdani’s criticism of Israel. Mamdani calls Israel’s military actions in Gaza "genocide," sparking harsh responses from Cuomo and Sliwa, who tag this as antisemitism. Mamdani has bravely faced anti-Muslim attacks throughout the race. Across in New Jersey, the governor’s contest is equally heated. Republican state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli faces off against Democratic U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill. They debated hot topics like the federal government shutdown, military records, Trump’s policies, and the soaring cost of living. The winner will take over from term-limited Democratic Governor Phil Murphy. What really ties these races together? The cost of living and deep divisions within the Democratic Party, says Ashley Koning, expert at Rutgers University’s Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling. Virginia’s voters joined the early voting action on September 19. They must pick between Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears. The winner makes history as Virginia’s first female governor. Race topics include cultural wars like transgender rights in sports and school bathrooms, highlighting intense debates. The countdown is on! Will Democrats hold the line or will Republicans make big gains? With fiery candidates and passionate voters, these elections are not just about politics—they are a rollercoaster of drama, hope, and power clashing at America’s doorstep.

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Tags: Us midterm elections, New york city mayor race, New jersey governor race, Virginia election, Early voting, Donald trump,