KINGSTON, NY—Legislators will honor Marbletown teen Hudson Rowan, winner of the 2022 Ulster County Board of Elections “I Voted” sticker contest, at Legislative Session this evening. Hudson’s unconventional design has won international acclaim and amassed over 228,200 votes worldwide.
The Ulster County Board of Elections launched the second annual “I Voted” sticker contest in April and invited all 13-to-18-year-olds in the county to submit a sticker design. The Board of Elections selected six finalists in June and the public voted for their favorite design throughout July.
Hudson’s vibrant sticker won fans from all over the country on social media and earned international media attention. By the close of the contest, votes for Hudson’s design far surpassed the total population of Ulster County and garnered 93% of the total votes cast in the competition.
Hudson Rowan states, “I think my sticker inspired so many people because it was so different and stood out. The feeling of the design is relatable.” Hudson adds, “I am glad to hear my sticker is energizing and inspiring people to want to vote.”
Legislative Chair Tracey Bartels (Towns of Gardiner & Shawangunk, District 16) states, “The Legislature is honored to recognize Hudson’s “I Voted” sticker design that has struck such a deep nerve not only in Ulster County but across the country. Hudson’s crazed, wild-eyed spider robot creature has genuinely tapped into what it feels like to participate in our democracy. I hope that this sticker will increase midterm election turnout. Hudson has certainly ignited a conversation. Chair Bartels adds, “Like so many, I can’t wait to vote and to claim my sticker at the polls.”
Legislator Eric Stewart (Towns of Hurley and Marbletown, District 18) states, “I am excited to present the Pride of Ulster Award to 14-year-old Hudson Rowan of Stone Ridge for his quirky and maniacal winning entry in the Ulster County Board of Elections’ 2nd Annual “I Voted” sticker contest. Legislator Stewart adds, “Hudson’s off-the-wall, multi-colored, grinning head on spidery legs design won the contest hands-down and went viral internationally, giving Hudson, his parents, Marbletown, and Ulster County widespread notoriety and acclaim. I can’t help but wonder what we should next expect from this extraordinary artist and budding graphic designer.”
