It's primary day in the Hudson Valley and the polls are now open.

There are a number of closely contested races that News 12 is keeping an eye on today.

In Mount Vernon, the democratic race for mayor is a crowded one with five candidates vying to become the city's next leader. Incumbent Ernie Davis is seeking a fourth term while former mayor Clinton Young is hoping to get his old job back. Also in the race is long time City Comptroller Maureen Walker, state Sen. Ruth Hassell-Thompson, and City Council member Richard Thomas.

In Orange County, the primary for Newburgh mayor is between Newburgh Democratic Committee head Jonathan Jacobson, incumbent Mayor Judith Kennedy, and civil rights activist Omari Shakur.

A heated race is also taking place in Putnam County where current District Attorney Adam Levy is looking to secure a third term in office against Putnam Valley Supervisor Bob Tendy.

News 12 is also watching some other key primary races for county legislator seats. In the 16th District, incumbent Democrat Ken Jenkins is being challenged by Nicole Benjamin-Horsford, who is the district leader for Yonkers' third ward. In the 17th District, incumbent legislator Virginia Perez is being challenged by Piedad Abreu.

News 12 will have special primary coverage at 9 p.m. when the polls close.