Turnout Low Early for Primaries in Pearl River

Frank Ripa of Pearl River would not say who he voted for in the primaries Tuesday, or even which party, but he was clear in why he voted.

"It's the democratic process," Ripa said. "It's very important to take part in the democratic process."

According to an election official at Pearl River High School's Pirate Cove, the turnout was very light in the morning for Tuesday's primaries despite excellent weather, though voters tend to come to that location after school lets out or on the way home from work.

"I always vote in any election," said Thomas DePrisco, a member of Pearl River's Board of Education. "It’s part of democracy and we should be voting at all times.

"Traditionally, turnout is very low for primaries. I’m from New York City, which also has primaries with very low turnout. You want to be able to get as many voters out there to properly select the right candidates. If you don’t get a lot of people out to vote, basically it’s who is able to get the word out best gets more votes. It’s unfair. I think everybody should vote, even in primaries."

DePrisco also declined to say who he voted for, but stressed that it is important to vote in Orangetown with the Republican primary for town supervisor and a Democratic primary for the two available seats on the town council.

Brian Costello of Pearl River said he did not realize there was a Republican primary until a recent mailing, which got him to vote.

"I voted for Paul Whalen," Costello said. "I like Paul. I think he's good for the town and he's a people person. He's not a bean counter."

Voting for Whalen is also part of what brought Jimmy Gallagher ou tto vote. Whalen is the incumbent town supervisor and he is being challenged by Allan Ryff for the Republican spot on the ballot in November.

"It's out duty as citizens," Gallagher said. "That's what our forefathers fought for -- our freedom. I'd like to see a better turnout. Otherwise, you can't complain.

"I support the candidate (Whalen). I think he's doing a good job."