Attorney General Letitia James announced the activation of the Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) Election Protection Hotline for the upcoming presidential primary on April 2, as well as throughout New York’s early voting period from March 23 to March 30.
The initiative aims to provide immediate assistance to voters facing difficulties, whether it be with absentee ballots, early mail ballots, or in-person voting at their designated polling stations. A guide addressing frequently asked questions is also currently available to assist voters with, among other things, the absentee and early mail ballot process and voter registration issues.
New Yorkers are assured protection against any form of voter intimidation, deception, suppression, or obstruction, in line with both state and federal laws.
“The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy, and my office will always ensure every New Yorker is able to make their voice heard,” James said. “Our election protection hotline will once again be available to voters throughout this primary election to help address any challenges and provide helpful guidance, no matter how they choose to cast their ballot.”
The OAG encourages voters who encounter election-related issues to reach out via the hotline at (866) 390-2992 or to submit a complaint online, ensuring that support is readily available. Operational hours for the hotline are extended during the early voting period and on Primary Election Day, with provisions for assistance in the days leading up to and following the election. The hotline, managed by experienced OAG attorneys and staff, stands as a testament to New York’s dedication to upholding electoral integrity.
Since its inception in November 2012, the Election Protection Hotline has played a crucial role in facilitating the electoral process, addressing hundreds to thousands of complaints and collaborating with local election officials to resolve any issues promptly. The OAG’s efforts extend to legal actions aimed at protecting voters from registration purges and guaranteeing equitable access to early voting, in adherence to the law.
On Primary Day, polls are required to be open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. If voters are in line before closing, they must be allowed to vote. In addition, all registered voters have the right to vote free from coercion or intimidation, whether by election officials or any other person.
Voters experiencing election-related problems can call the OAG hotline at (866) 390-2992 or submit a complaint online to request assistance. The telephone hotline will be open between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. during early voting (March 23-30), and between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Primary Day, April 2. The hotline will also be available on the days before and after Primary Election Day, Monday, April 1 and Wednesday, April 3, between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Written requests for assistance may be submitted at any time through the online complaint form. Hotline calls and written requests for assistance are processed by OAG attorneys and staff.