AARP Analysis: Strong Turnout for 50+ Voters as Group is Poised to Dominate NYC Elections

Contact: David Irwin (212) 407-3718 dirwin@aarp.org

NEW YORK, New York – An AARP analysis flies in the face of predictions of low voter turnout in New York City tomorrow, at least in regards to one group, voters age 50 and older. The voting bloc is a powerhouse in every local, state and national election – and, according to an AARP analysis of New York City voters, tomorrow’s elections will be no different, the predicted numbers, however, may surprise even the most astute of political observers.

Based on a recent survey by the Association, over 75% of 50+ voters in New York City say they’re very to extremely likely hit the polls tomorrow. Of AARP’s 743,000 members in New York City, 80% vote in big races, such as those for Mayor – meaning 594,400 indicate they’ll cast their ballots tomorrow.

“Everyone is pointing to a low turnout across the board; our numbers show the exact opposite for 50+ voters in New York City. There always tends to be some variation between what people say they’ll do on Election Day in a survey, and whether they actually vote – however, one thing is for certain, the 50+ vote and AARP members will be the group that selects the next Mayor, City Council members, Borough Presidents and all other offices on the ballot tomorrow,” said Beth Finkel, State Director for AARP in New York.  “While the 50+ vote is a force on Election Day, AARP members within the group are the uber-voter – we expect to see this in New York City tomorrow.”

AARP broke 50+ voter turnout down by borough, with the following reporting they are very to extremely likely to vote in the city wide elections:

• 72% in the Bronx
• 72% in Brooklyn
• 84% in Manhattan
• 74% in Queens
• 72% in Staten Island

AARP members by borough and likely voter turnout:

“We know the top of mind issues 50+ voters are carrying with them to the polls in New York City are those impacting their kitchen table economies,” added Finkel.

According to recent AARP research, 50+ voters in New York City are very concerned about age discrimination, being able to pay their rent and utility bills, and retirement.

For the first time, AARP has brought its massive voter engagement push to local elections in New York City, working to bring key issues to the attention of the Mayoral and City Council candidates in NYC, holding a series of debates, voter engagement efforts, and grassroots activities. The Association will be holding voter engagement activities across New York City tomorrow.

While AARP does not endorse candidates, have a PAC, or give money to campaigns or political parties, the non-partisan membership organization does provide straight-forward information on the issues to 50-plus voters, the media and the general public.

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AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org ; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity of AARP that is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org .

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