Voters in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia head to the polls amid fierce Democratic challenges and Republican infighting, with NYC's mayoral contest drawing national attention.

November 4, 2025 | The New York Times (New York, NY) - As polls open across the United States on this crisp Election Day, the nation turns its eyes to a series of pivotal races that could signal the direction of the Republican Party under President Donald Trump's enduring influence. In New York City, a three-way battle for mayor pits progressive firebrand Zohran Mamdani against former Governor Andrew Cuomo's comeback bid and Republican Curtis Sliwa's law-and-order platform. Analysts predict a razor-thin margin, with Mamdani's socialist-leaning policies clashing against Cuomo's centrist appeal in a city still reeling from post-pandemic economic woes.

Further south, New Jersey's gubernatorial race sees Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill facing off against Republican Jack Ciattarelli in a rematch of 2021's nail-biter, while Virginia's open governor's seat pits Democrat Abigail Spanberger against GOP rising star Winsome Sears. These contests, dubbed the "first big test of the Trump era," come just months after Trump's 2024 reelection victory, with early voting turnout surging 15% over previous cycles.

"These results will show whether Trump's MAGA base can hold sway in blue-leaning suburbs or if Democrats can capitalize on voter fatigue," said political strategist James Carville in an exclusive interview. With control of statehouses at stake—potentially flipping legislative majorities—the outcomes could reshape redistricting efforts ahead of 2026 midterms. As of midday, lines snaked around polling stations in Jersey City and Richmond, underscoring the high energy and deep divisions defining American democracy in 2025.