Early Voting Begins in NYC: Voters in Brooklyn’s 46th District Show Strong Support

By Johnson Dories

Senior Reporter The Midtown Times | June 15, 2025 — NEW YORK CITY

Race Heats Up in Canarsie as Early Turnout Exceeds 30,000 Citywide

As early voting kicked off for the 2025 Primary Election in New York City, the Brooklyn borough saw over 10,000 residents check in at polling stations, with a notable show of enthusiasm in the city’s 46th City Council District—home to the Canarsie neighborhood and represented by incumbent Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.

Among the crowd casting their ballots on Day One of early voting was council candidate Dimple Willabus, a longtime community advocate and rising political force in Brooklyn’s southeast corridor. Willabus, who voted early yesterday, received a warm reception from many local voters who expressed strong support for her campaign’s message of community empowerment, improved housing, and enhanced youth programs.

Early Numbers, Strong Turnout in Brooklyn

According to the New York City Board of Elections, Saturday’s early voting figures showed promising civic engagement across the five boroughs. The unofficial totals as of the close of polls on Day One were as follows:

Manhattan: 10,003 check-ins
Bronx: 2,698
Brooklyn: 10,244
Queens: 6,470
Staten Island: 1,138
Citywide Total: 30,553 early voters

Brooklyn’s strong early turnout is especially notable as the borough hosts several competitive primary races, including the heated contest between incumbent Mercedes Narcisse and challenger Dimple Willabus in District 46.

Voter Voices: Passion, Hope, and Change

Speaking to The Midtown Times outside a polling location in Canarsie, a Haitian-American mother of two—who requested anonymity—shared her thoughts on the primary and why she participated in early voting.

“I feel very excited to be part of this process,” she said. “This is where we live. This is where we raise our children. Dimple Willabus, she looks pretty good,” the woman said, paraphrasing her impressions. Although she declined to disclose who she ultimately voted for, she emphasized that Willabus’s passion for the district resonated with her.

When asked about the incumbent, Mercedes Narcisse, she respectfully declined to comment on other candidates. “I came here to vote on issues, not personalities,” she said. “And that’s why I voted early—for someone who understands what Canarsie needs.”

A Race Focused on the Future

The 46th Council District, which includes Canarsie, Bergen Beach, Flatlands, and Mill Basin, has become a microcosm of the broader debate over neighborhood development, youth services, and constituent outreach. Willabus has positioned herself as a voice for change and accessibility, while Narcisse touts her experience and existing relationships in City Hall.

As early voting continues through next weekend, both candidates will be looking to solidify their base and expand their support in a district where local engagement is gaining momentum.

Looking Ahead

The final day to vote early in person is Sunday, June 22, ahead of Primary Election Day on Tuesday, June 24. With over 30,000 ballots already cast citywide, the numbers suggest a primary season charged with energy—and a Brooklyn district with a decision that may shape its future for years to come.