Press Release: New Poll: NYC Voters Across Party Lines Want Open Primaries
Unite NY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, October 8, 2026
NEW YORK, N.Y. — New York City voters are dissatisfied with the state’s political system and support reforms that would give voters more say and candidates a fairer opportunity to compete, according to New York City findings from Unite NY’s Voter Empowerment Index (VEI), released today.
Just 11% of NYC voters describe New York’s political system as “extremely” or “very healthy.” Sixty-two percent agree that “No matter who I vote for, the same kinds of people end up running New York,” while 60% disagree that state government listens to people like them.
The survey finds strong support for key elements of Unite NY’s democracy reforms:
- Open primaries: 64% support allowing any registered voter to participate, including 61% of Democrats, 58% of Republicans and 78% of unaffiliated voters. More than half (52%) say they would be more likely to vote in primaries under an open system.
- Over half of New York City voters (52%) say they would be more likely to vote in primaries if New York adopted an open primary system.
- Fairer ballot access: 59% support lowering independent candidates’ petition-signature requirements to match those of major-party candidates. Support rises to 68% among unaffiliated voters.
- Ranked choice voting: 56% support using ranked choice voting in New York State elections, including 54% of unaffiliated voters. A majority (53%) believe it would give voters like them more say in who gets elected.
“The data is clear: New York City voters want open primaries,” said Anthony Thomas, executive director of Unite NY. “Every registered voter—including independents—deserves a say in who leads our city. Approximately one in five NYC voters is unaffiliated with a political party. Open primaries would give them a voice and ensure every registered voter can participate, regardless of party affiliation.”
Embold Research conducted the statewide survey of 1,667 registered voters, including 561 New York City voters across political affiliations.
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Media Contact:
Ellie Krasne
Communications Advisor, Unite NY
ekrasne@uniteny.org
