Governor Hochul announces a February 2026 special election to fill the vacant Assembly District 74 seat

New York – Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that a special election will be held early next year to fill a vacant seat in the New York State Assembly, setting a clear timeline for restoring representation to residents of Assembly District 74.

According to the announcement, the special election will take place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The vacancy was created following the resignation of Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, who had represented the district in Albany. Governor Hochul formally issued the proclamation on December 15, acting under the authority granted by the state’s Public Officers Law.

The decision ensures that voters in the 74th Assembly District will not go without a voice in the State Assembly for an extended period. Special elections are used in New York to fill legislative seats when an officeholder steps down before the end of a term, allowing constituents to select a new representative rather than waiting for the next general election cycle.

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“Assemblymember Harvey Epstein served as a passionate advocate for the 74th District in Albany, and we wish him well in his next chapter,” Governor Hochul said. “To ensure residents of the 74th District have representation in the State Assembly, there will be a special election on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, to fill the seat vacated by Assemblymember Epstein. I look forward to working with his successor.”

Epstein’s resignation marked the end of his tenure representing the district, where he was known for his involvement in local and statewide policy discussions. While details surrounding his departure were not included in the announcement, state officials emphasized the importance of moving quickly to maintain legislative continuity.

With the election date now set, political parties are expected to begin the process of selecting candidates to appear on the ballot. Voters in the district will have the opportunity to choose who will serve out the remainder of the term and represent their interests in the State Assembly.

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Election officials will release additional details in the coming weeks, including information on polling locations, early voting options, and absentee ballots. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the process to ensure their voices are heard.

The special election underscores the state’s commitment to maintaining full representation in government and ensuring that legislative districts are not left without an advocate in Albany.