Everything You Need to Know Before Election Day in Sullivan County

Election season is in full swing, and early voting is already underway across Sullivan County. Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Dan Hust, Sullivan County’s Director of Communications, about how the Board of Elections ensures a smooth, secure, and transparent process for voters heading to the polls this November.

The Work Behind the Ballot

Hust says the Board of Elections “works hard all year long” — not just during election season. Led by Commissioners Deanna Senyk and Pamela Murran, the bipartisan team oversees every election at the national, state, county, and town levels.

“They are the model of how we’d like to see our political parties work together,” Hust noted.

Their duties range from maintaining accurate voter rolls to staying up to date on state election laws and implementing secure voting systems.

Keeping Your Vote Safe

Concerns about election security are top of mind for many voters, but Hust emphasized that the system in New York State — and in Sullivan County — is built with layers of protection.

“Our Board of Elections takes voter safety and ballot security very seriously,” he said.
Voting machines are not connected to the internet, and all software used is certified by the state. A strict chain of custody ensures results can’t be tampered with, from the moment a ballot is cast to when it’s counted.

Getting the Word Out

As Communications Director, Hust helps the county spread the word about when, where, and how to vote — through paid media campaigns, the county website, and local partnerships.

“We don’t tell you who to vote for — just how and where to do it,” Hust explained.
Voters can access sample ballots, polling site details, and important deadlines on the Sullivan County Board of Elections website.

Election Night and Beyond

Unofficial results will start coming in after polls close at 9 p.m. on Election Night, but absentee and affidavit ballots will be added in the following days. Official certification happens only after every vote — including mail-ins and challenged ballots — has been verified.

Important Dates

Nov. 3: Last day to apply in person for an absentee ballot

Nov. 4 (Election Day): Polls open 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Last day to postmark or deliver absentee ballots in person

Ballots must be received by Nov. 12 (general) or Nov. 17 (military/special federal)

How to Get Help

Questions about voting? Contact the Sullivan County Board of Elections at 845-807-0400 or visit them in person at the Government Center in Monticello.

And if you want to help keep democracy running smoothly, Hust says they’re always looking for poll workers — or, as he puts it, “election inspectors — the front lines of democracy.”

“Get out and vote,” Hust said. “Your voice matters — especially in local elections. These are your neighbors, your community leaders. Make your voice heard.”