Long lines formed at polling places across the United States as voters turned out to make their voices heard. In New York, interviews reflected strong opposition to Donald Trump among some voters, alongside concerns about political power, economic inequality and immigration enforcement. Others expressed reservations about the Democratic Party and its direction.
Sandra Douglas, a former media executive who now works as a flight attendant, said she voted for Democrats because she wants democracy restored and social inequalities addressed. She described voting as a way to oppose what she sees as political authoritarianism.
Jesse K., interviewed after voting at Baruch College, said he has consistently supported Democrats and wants a party that works for everyone. He pointed to rising prices and the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying some immigrant patients are afraid to seek medical care because they worry about encountering agents.
Francesca Leoni, a U.S. citizen, said she voted Democratic across the ballot but was pessimistic about the election’s ability to repair what she called a democracy weakened by corporate power. Ross McProc, who described himself as fiscally Republican and socially Democratic, chose not to vote because he felt represented by neither Trump nor the “woke” movement.
An Italian-born voter who asked not to be named said voting was important as a way to participate in the country where he lives, and that improving people’s living conditions should be a priority. Teacher Mario F. also backed Democratic candidates, saying elections offer voters a chance to influence the country’s direction and immigration policy. He argued that immigrants should be managed without a “witch hunt” and said New York should balance development with people’s rights.
Vivian Salomon, a moderate Democrat, said she was increasingly uncomfortable with the party’s direction, citing what she views as an overly socialist turn and unacceptable levels of antisemitism. In the New York governor’s race, she preferred Republican Bruce Arthur Blakeman to Democrat Kathy Hochul, saying she wanted a counterweight to Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s policies, which she considers too ideological and harmful to the city’s finances.
Sources: ANSA Mondo.