SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — On a day when polls are filled with people across the nation, voters hope for a smooth experience.
The process consists of voters providing their information to the site workers and picking up their ballot. Once they fill them out, the voter will submit their ballots and be on their way.
This quick opportunity is necessary for real estate agent and Fayetteville resident Jeffrey Conkling.
“[Voting was] super easy. Pulled right in and got right out,” Conkling said.
“Vote” dividers at the Fayetteville Free Library © 2026 Harrison Calder
This midterm election has expected higher turnout than in past voting cycles. In New York, no midterm has exceeded 45% turnout since 2002, according to Ballotpedia.
But with a lot of people on both sides upset with the nation’s leadership, this midterm becomes of key to a lot of residents.
“[Voting] seemed pretty important. [There’s] lots of things changing so I think it’s important to get out there and vote and get your opinion out there,” Conkling said.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT: Quick voting process improves polling experience
Harrison Calder, Reporter: Demands for work, school and other activities can compete with people heading to the polls. That gives polling stations like the Fayetteville Free Library a chance to step up the process. The system at polling locations includes voters providing their information to the site workers and picking up their ballot. Once filled out, the voter will submit their ballot and be on their way.
Jeffrey Conkling, Fayetteville resident: “Easy for me, yeah. Super easy. Pulled right in and got right out.”
Calder: That was Jeffrey Conkling, a real estate agent who has spent a majority of his life in central New York. He believes that efficiency in the polls is key. Especially for this year’s midterm, which Conkling sees as vital for the country.
Jeffrey Conkling: “Seemed pretty important. Yeah, yeah, lots of things changing so I think it’s important to get out there and vote and get your opinion out there.”
Calder: Polling stations like the library will be open in Onondaga County until 9 p.m. this evening, with results expected to be announced by 11 O’clock. Reporting from Fayetteville, I’m Harrison Calder, NCC News.