Bronx voters are preparing to head to the polls as early voting for New York City’s primary election officially begins Saturday, giving residents several days to cast their ballots ahead of Primary Election Day on June 23.

For many voters, early voting offers flexibility and convenience, especially for residents balancing work schedules and other responsibilities.

Anthony Isibor, a Bronx resident planning to vote early, said timing plays a major role in his decision.

“Can’t afford to miss hours at work,” Isibor said.

As voters prepare to cast their ballots, News 12 asked Bronx residents what issues matter most to them heading into this election season.

For Isibor, affordability remains top of mind.

“Economics not doing well. We’re at war and the cost of gas and groceries is going up,” he said.

Other residents pointed to public safety as one of their biggest concerns.

“A little danger here in the night... I no see police in the night,” said Michael Rubio.

Housing and access to essential services also remain priorities for some voters.

“Housing. I’m a homeowner. Also transportation, healthcare and childcare,” said Dustin Kindell.

Residents planning to vote early are encouraged to confirm their designated polling location before arriving. The Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community Center is among early voting locations available to eligible voters in the Bronx.

Voters can also visit the NYC Board of Elections to confirm polling locations and review estimated wait times before heading out.

In addition to casting ballots, many Bronx voters will also be watching one of the borough’s most closely watched races, New York’s 13th Congressional District.

The race features longtime Democratic incumbent Adriano Espaillat, who is facing challenger Darializa Avila Chevalier, a candidate backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Fordham University political science professor Jacob Smith said he expects the race to be more competitive than in previous years.

“Think there’s more similarities in terms of a candidate who is more establishment, with a candidate who is more of an outsider. and channeling inner frustration two years into a Trump administration,” Smith said.

Smith said he sees similarities between the current race and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s 2018 primary victory, when she defeated then-incumbent Joe Crowley in a result that reshaped New York politics.

Early voting runs through June 21, while Primary Election Day is officially set for June 23.