The Orange County Board of Elections is reminding registered voters that the deadline to change party enrollment ahead of the 2026 Primary Election is Saturday, February 14. This deadline applies to those who wish to participate in the primary election scheduled for June 23.
In New York State, primary elections allow political parties to select their candidates for the general election in November. The state uses a closed primary system, which means only enrolled members of a party can vote in that party’s primary.
According to the Board of Elections, “Enrollment change requests must be received by the Board of Elections by February 14th to be effective for the June Primary. Any enrollment changes received after that will take effect seven days after the June Primary.” The office will be open on Saturday, February 14, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for last-minute enrollment changes.
Voters can update their party enrollment through several methods:
– Online via the NYS Board of Elections’ portal (application deadline is 11:59 PM on February 14)
– Through the MyDMV customer portal (deadline is 1:59 PM on Friday, February 13)
– By submitting a paper form in person or by mail to the Orange County Board of Elections at 75 Webster Ave, PO Box 810, Goshen, NY 10924
The Board advises that mailed applications must arrive by February 14 to be processed before the primary. They recommend personal delivery as a safer option. Paper forms are available at local post offices, municipal buildings, and at the Board of Elections office. Voters needing a form mailed or with questions can call 845-360-6500.
Voters unsure about their registration or enrollment status can check online at https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/.
