Voters cast first ballots in primary season

Polls have officially opened for this year’s primary election season. 

Voters were out from Queens to Manhattan on Saturday, casting the first ballots. 

For some, voting early is about skipping the hassle of Election Day. 

“I always vote as soon as I can, very politically engaged and it’s just like to get it out of the way,” said Michael Paradis in Woodside, Queens.  

“It makes the lines on voting day shorter and you don’t forget to do it,” said David Silvers on the Upper East Side.  

Some candidates were also out making their final pitches, like Assemblyman Alex Bores and Micah Lasher, who were on the Upper East Side and are in the crowded field for New York’s 12th Congressional District.

“The person that’s… there will be a fighter for our progressive values,” said Bores. 

“It’s the first time this congressional seat has been open in the community, a moment for generational change,” said Lasher.  

Bores took the opportunity to vote on Saturday, making it a family affair with his wife and son joining him.

Over in Ridgewood, Queens, Assemblywoman Claire Valdez cast her ballot in the competitive race in New York’s 7th Congressional District, covering parts of Queens and Brooklyn.

“No race is easy, and it’s going to be about turnout and who shows up. I wanted to inspire people to make the choice to vote early,” said Valdez.

One voter told NY1 she wants to inspire younger generations and support candidates that align with her values.

“I’ve been doing it for 30 years, maybe a little bit more, I’m 52 years old and it’s important for me to support people that champion this state,” said Connie Altamirano in Ridgewood, Queens.

Early voting runs through June 21. Primary Day is June 23.