First-time voters: Immigrants and children of undocumented parents weigh in on midterms

Newly naturalized citizens and U.S.-born children of immigrants are casting ballots in the 2026 midterms with a focus on family security. For these voters, the election extends beyond their own interests to protect relatives who are undocumented or in the process of gaining legal status. The turnout reflects a generation that has waited years or decades for the right to vote.

Nicole Solis-Sison, 34, arrived in the United States from the Philippines at age seven. Her family sought asylum after the Philippine government demanded their return. An Immigration and Naturalization Services agent advised them to file for asylum while on U.S. soil. After more than two decades in the system, Solis-Sison became a citizen earlier this year. She is voting for the first time in New York City.

Juan Escalante, 37, was born in Venezuela and moved to South Florida at age 11. He discovered his undocumented status during his junior year of high school. His parents' immigration case was mishandled by an attorney, leaving them out of the line for correction. Escalante later qualified for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals under the Obama administration. He became a citizen in 2025 and is voting in his first general election as a California resident.

Deisy España, 24, was born in Wisconsin and has always been a citizen. Her parents, from Mexico, were undocumented for much of her childhood. España recalled her mother praying during traffic stops due to fear of arrest by ICE. Her mother recently obtained a green card, but the family remains vigilant. España stated she is voting for her parents, who cannot vote themselves.

Leydi Gonzalez, 23, is a citizen from Texas. Her parents, from El Salvador, gained authorization to stay in the U.S. after Gonzalez turned 21 and petitioned for them. The family is now waiting for residency approval. Gonzalez said the killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by an ICE agent in Texas has intensified her community's concern. She is voting in a competitive U.S. Senate race where Democrat James Talarico is polling ahead of Republican Ken Paxton.

Solis-Sison created her own voter guide and diary to prepare for the election. She described her experience as a milestone and a responsibility to those still in the immigration process. Escalante spent considerable time researching ballot propositions and candidates to ensure his vote reflected his values as an immigrant and Latino. He described the process as profoundly personal and emotional.

España and Gonzalez both emphasized that their votes are acts of protection for their families. España said the fear of ICE detention is a constant presence for mixed-status households. Gonzalez noted that her family has discussed contingency plans for her siblings in case her parents are detained. Both voters believe the outcome of the election will directly impact the legal stability of their relatives.