For some Valley Stream voters, finding time to cast a ballot can be just as much about scheduling as it is about making a choice.
This year, residents will have the option to vote before Election Day during a nine-day early voting period, from Oct. 25 through Nov. 2, at the Valley Stream Presbyterian Church on Central Avenue. The option has been welcomed by residents who say it makes voting easier to fit into their lives.
Many Valley Stream voters reflect on what they describe as advantageous aspects of casting their ballots.
Nkenge Gilliam remembers when early voting was not an option.
In 2005, Gilliam was pregnant with her son and nearly decided not to vote because she was dealing with swollen ankles and nausea. She ultimately made it to the polls, where someone helped move her ahead in line.
Today, Gilliam said the ability to vote early has made the process far more convenient.
“With early voting, I have never waited on a long line,” she said. “Early voting is a blessing.”
For Shelbie Rama, the benefit is less about avoiding lines and more about making voting work around her family’s schedule. Rama said her toddler attends day care twice a week, but neither day is Tuesday, making the traditional Election Day schedule difficult.
“The option to vote early makes my life a lot easier,” Rama said.
Barbara LeVien has also embraced the option. She said she has taken advantage of early voting and has never missed an election, adding that giving people more opportunities to vote allows them to do so when it works best for them.
Susan Kaye said she has been voting early since the option became available. Over the years, she has cast ballots at several early voting locations, including the Port Washington Library and Mid-Island Jewish Community Center.
But the flexibility of early voting has not won over everyone.
Ed DeLucie said he appreciates the convenience but believes New York should return to a system centered on Election Day, with limited exceptions for absentee voting. He also said voters should present valid identification when casting their ballots.
“I like the convenience of early voting,” DeLucie wrote.
Patricia Myren offered another perspective, saying her biggest concern this year is keeping what she described as MAGA politicians from gaining more influence on Long Island.
The early voting schedule will vary by day. Polls will be open Oct. 25 and 26 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Oct. 27 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Oct. 28 and 29 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Oct. 30 through Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Anyone who votes during the early voting period will not be able to vote again on Election Day, Nov. 4. Those who choose to vote on Election Day must go to their assigned polling place.
For residents such as Gilliam and Rama, early voting is ultimately about having a choice — whether that means avoiding a long wait, working around child care or simply making sure an unexpected circumstance does not keep them from the polls.
