NY Officials Assure Voters of Election Safety as Early Voting Surges

Early voting is underway in New York…More than 700,000 people took part in the first weekend of early voting for general elections, according to state Board of Elections numbers.A good percentage of those — 257,860 — came from New York City voters. About 447,840 came from voters in the other parts of the state.More people have voted early so far than in the first weekend of early voting during the last presidential election in 2020, which was the first time New Yorkers had the opportunity to vote early in a contest for the White House.With just days until Election Day, polls will be open for early voters until Sunday, November 3rd.New York state officials reassured voters Monday that their ballots are safe, and they’re on the lookout for misinformation and voter intimidation.  From The New York Public News Network, Desiree Diorio reports.State attorney general Tish James says her office is ready to tackle any instances of voter suppression or electioneering so that New Yorkers can feel safe when they head to the polls.And in the age of artificial intelligence, James has this warning: “You should never rely on AI chat bots to answer questions about elections or voting and if you receive a phone call with information about voting or elections, be vigilant - that information may be inaccurate or fake. Remember to verify information with official sources.”The state’s Election Protection Hotline opened on Saturday. Those with questions or concerns can call 866-390-2992 or submit an online complaint. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5th.