First-time voters cite family stakes in 2026 midterms

Nicole Solis-Sison is casting her first ballot in New York City this year. She arrived in the United States at age seven seeking asylum from the Philippines. Her family had planned to return home after a short stay, but an immigration agent in Los Angeles advised them to file for asylum while on U.S. soil. After more than twenty years in the country, she became a citizen earlier this year. At 34, she described the election as a milestone and created her own voter guide.

Juan Escalante, 37, is voting in his first general election in California. Born in Venezuela, he moved to the United States at age 11. He learned during his junior year of high school that he was undocumented because his parents hired a lawyer who mishandled their case. He later qualified for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals under the Obama administration. In 2025, he became the first citizen in his family. He said he researched every ballot proposition carefully to ensure his vote supported his community.

Deisy España, 24, is a U.S.-born citizen from Wisconsin. Her parents are from Mexico and were undocumented for most of her childhood. She recalled her mother praying during police traffic stops, fearing they would be turned over to immigration enforcement. Her mother recently obtained a green card, but España said the family still worries. She stated that she is voting for her parents because they cannot vote themselves.

Leydi Gonzalez, 23, lives in Texas. She is a citizen, but her parents are from El Salvador. She said her primary goal at age 21 was to petition for their legal status. Their application is currently in the system. Gonzalez said her family discussed contingency plans for her siblings in case her parents were detained. She noted that the killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by an immigration agent in Texas has heightened concerns in her community.

Gonzalez is watching the U.S. Senate race in Texas. Democrat James Talarico is polling ahead of Republican nominee Ken Paxton. She said the race feels like a chance for change if control of Congress shifts. She described her vote as a source of security for her family.

The 2026 midterm elections are scheduled for November 3. Voters in states like New York, California, Wisconsin, and Texas are choosing federal and local officials. Several newly naturalized citizens and children of immigrants in these states said they are weighing immigration policy heavily when selecting candidates.