Is today election day? Yes — for millions of Americans, Tuesday, November 4, 2025, marks Election Day across the United States. Polling stations are open nationwide as voters cast their ballots in key state and local races, including gubernatorial, mayoral, and municipal contests that will shape local and regional policies for years to come.
What Is Happening Today
Across the U.S., today’s Election Day features a wide range of elections that go beyond national politics. Several states are holding important statewide and municipal contests, making this an active day for voters across the country.
- New Jersey and Virginia are holding gubernatorial elections to choose their next state leaders.
- New York City voters are heading to the polls to elect their next mayor and city officials.
- California voters are deciding on a special statewide ballot measure concerning congressional redistricting.
- Pennsylvania voters are participating in local municipal elections and judicial retention votes.
- Other states are hosting school board, city council, and special district elections, giving local residents a say in community governance.
Even though this is not a presidential election year, the results of these contests could have a ripple effect nationwide, influencing policy direction and party momentum ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Why This Election Day Matters
Off-year elections like today’s are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in determining how communities are governed. While federal elections draw national attention, local races often have a more immediate impact on citizens’ daily lives.
Key reasons today’s elections are important:
- State leadership shifts: Governorships in states like New Jersey and Virginia can set new policy priorities and economic agendas.
- Urban influence: Mayoral contests in large cities like New York help determine local priorities on housing, policing, and infrastructure.
- Judicial and educational impact: Judicial retention and school board elections decide who shapes key decisions on justice, education, and community standards.
- Political temperature check: Analysts are closely watching these elections as an indicator of public sentiment heading into the 2026 midterms.
Polling Hours and Voter Information
Election Day polling times vary by state, but all polling stations are open today. Voters should check their local election office for exact hours and locations.
Here’s a general overview:
- New York: Polls open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- North Carolina: Polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- California: Polling places are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Pennsylvania: Polls open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- New Jersey: Polls open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
If you’re in line when the polls close, you have the right to vote — stay in line until your ballot is cast.
Mail-In and Early Voting Updates
Most states have already closed their early voting and mail-in ballot submission windows. However, voters who mailed ballots ahead of time can track their submission status through their state election websites. Ballots postmarked by Election Day will be counted if received within the legally allowed timeframe in each jurisdiction.
In-person voting remains the final opportunity for citizens to make their voices heard in today’s contests.
What’s on the Ballot
Here’s a snapshot of key elections taking place today across the United States:
| State / City | Election Type | Main Focus |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | Gubernatorial Election | Choosing the next state governor |
| Virginia | Gubernatorial Election | New leadership and party balance |
| New York City | Mayoral and Citywide Elections | Leadership on housing, transit, and safety |
| California | Special Statewide Election | Proposition 50: redistricting and voting changes |
| Pennsylvania | Municipal and Judicial Elections | Retention votes and local government seats |
| Other States Nationwide | Local and School Board Elections | Education, city councils, and budget issues |
Tips for Voters on Election Day 2025
Before heading to the polls, voters should take a few important steps to ensure a smooth voting experience:
- Check your registration: Verify that your voter registration is active and accurate before arriving.
- Bring valid identification: Some states require photo ID or voter cards — check local requirements.
- Know your polling place: Locations can change, especially after redistricting or precinct updates.
- Review your ballot: Look up sample ballots online to familiarize yourself with races and measures.
- Plan for wait times: Depending on your area, lines may be long, so plan accordingly.
What Happens After the Polls Close
Once polls close tonight, local election officials will begin counting votes. Initial results for smaller races may appear within hours, but statewide contests could take longer to finalize, especially in areas where mail-in ballots are still arriving.
Official certification of results typically occurs within a week or two, depending on state laws. Voters can follow official state election websites or local news outlets for verified updates as counting continues.
The Broader Significance of Today’s Elections
Today’s results will not only determine local leadership but may also influence broader national trends. Political observers often use off-year election results to measure public mood and forecast voter behavior in upcoming congressional and presidential cycles.
Historically, strong performances by either party in local elections can serve as a momentum builder for future campaigns. Likewise, closely contested mayoral or gubernatorial races can highlight emerging issues that may define future political debates — such as inflation, public safety, and housing affordability.
Final Thoughts
So, to answer the question — is today election day? Yes, it is. Across America, polling locations are open, ballots are being cast, and democracy is once again in motion. From major cities to small towns, today’s elections remind citizens of the importance of civic participation in shaping the future of their communities.
Take the time to vote, share your experience, and stay tuned as results unfold — every ballot truly matters.