First time voting? Here is the ultimate guide to ballot boxes, critical issues on Election Day

Voters across the country — particularly in Virginia, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania — will head to the polls next month for an off-year election that could offer an early read on both parties’ strength heading into 2026.Virginia’s races include the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general and have been brought to the fore of national conscience by the murder-text scandal enveloping Democratic attorney general nominee Jay Jones.Virginia law now permits voters to register to vote on the same day as the election. If someone chooses this route, they will be asked to cast a provis