Virginia Early Voting Underway for June 17 Democratic Primaries; Elise Stefanik Eyes 2026 New York Governor Run Against Kathy Hochul

Early voting for Virginia's primary elections began on Friday, May 2, 2025, with polls open statewide through Saturday, June 14. These primaries will determine the Democratic nominees for key state offices, including attorney general and lieutenant governor, ahead of the general election in November. Voters in counties such as Chesterfield have access to early voting, and officials including Lieutenant Governor candidate Levar Stoney have encouraged participation. Meanwhile, in New York, Representative Elise Stefanik is considering a 2026 gubernatorial run against incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul. Stefanik has stated she is in the "strongest position" to defeat Hochul and has outlined her priorities for her first day in office, although she has not yet filed official paperwork for the campaign.