Orange County voters will go to the polls Tuesday to decide who will serve the next term as county executive. Incumbent Steve Neuhaus is facing a challenge from attorney Michael Sussman.

Although the race has recently not been seen as a toss-up, the county has been a battleground that Democrats like Rep. Pat Ryan (NY-18) and State Senator James Skoufis have carried.

Neuhaus, a Republican, is seeking his fourth term as county executive after first being elected in 2013. He last ran in 2021, unopposed. This election, he’s focused his message on bringing property taxes down, increasing green space in the county and growing tourism.

“I have a record of success,” Neuhaus said. “Whether it’s the pandemic, preserving open spaces, the economy, or reducing the property tax … I think that shows that I’ve earned their vote.” 

Sussman, a civil rights attorney, has campaigned on a platform of change, saying that one-party rule in Orange County has hurt taxpayers.

“[The people] know we support a county comptroller, they know we want to elevate agriculture in our county,” Sussman said. “They know we want to redirect the [Industrial Development Agency], they know we want housing and transportation, and they know that the incumbent in 12 years has done essentially none of it.” 

Polls are open until 9 p.m.