The first wave of early voting began Saturday as Long Islanders cast ballots in a range of contests , including for Nassau County executive, the county legislatures and town council seats.

Citing the convenience of avoiding Election Day crowds and a commitment to civic duty, voters headed to the polls in a local election year that typically draws a much smaller turnout compared to presidential and congressional years.

At polling sites from Westbury to Islip, residents reported a smooth voting process to kick off the statewide early voting that runs for nine days in advance of Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

"It's a lot easier to come to vote now," said Paul Maini at the Yes We Can Community Center in Westbury. "There's no conflict, it's very peaceful."

Voting on Election Day, whic

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