ICE at Polling Sites? What Immigrant Voters Need to Know
Rumors of ICE agents showing up at polling places have spread fear through immigrant communities in New York City — even among U.S. citizens. Some eligible voters say they are afraid to go to the polls. With a primary already underway and a pivotal November election ahead, the stakes could not be higher.
The Fear Is Real — Even for Citizens
New York City is home to more than 3 million immigrants — over a third of the city's population. During early voting for this year's primary, community advocates reported that many residents, including naturalized U.S. citizens, were afraid to show up at polling sites. The reason: growing uncertainty about whether ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents could appear near voting locations.
The concern was fueled in part by public statements from Trump allies. In February, former Trump strategist Steve Bannon said on his podcast that he wanted ICE agents to surround polling places in November. Legal experts say that would be illegal under federal law. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said she could not "guarantee that an ICE agent won't be around a polling location in November." The Department of Homeland Security later denied any such plans, calling the idea "disinformation."
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Community leaders say the damage from the uncertainty is already done. "Even those who are citizens, they are afraid if they meet them or if they get caught by ICE for any reason," said Thekra El-Rowmeim, director of Family and Youth at the Yemeni American Merchants Association. Advocates from groups like APNA Brooklyn Community Center and city agencies like NYC Votes have been running "Know Your Rights" sessions to help voters understand their legal protections and feel safe going to the polls.
Who Can Vote — and What the Law Says
Only U.S. citizens who meet New York's voter eligibility requirements are allowed to vote. In March 2025, New York's highest court struck down a New York City law that would have let certain noncitizens — including green card holders and people with work permits (EAD) — vote in local elections. That law would have extended voting rights to more than 800,000 noncitizen residents, but it is no longer in effect. Advocates also point to the New York Voting Rights Act, passed in 2022, which strengthened protections against voter suppression and expanded language access at polling sites.
What to Do
- If you are a U.S. citizen, you have the legal right to vote. No immigration agency can lawfully stop you from casting your ballot based on your national origin or background.
- Know your rights at the polls. You cannot be asked about your immigration status at a voting site. If you feel intimidated, you can report it to poll workers or call a voter protection hotline.
- Attend a "Know Your Rights" session offered by local organizations like APNA Brooklyn or NYC Votes. These sessions explain your legal protections in plain language.
- If you are not yet a citizen but want to vote in the future, look into the naturalization process (applying to become a U.S. citizen). An immigration lawyer can help you understand if you qualify.
Fishkin Law Firm, New York
U.S. citizens have an absolute right to vote free from intimidation, and any attempt by federal agents to interfere with that right at a polling site would likely violate the Voting Rights Act and federal election law. If you are a naturalized citizen and feel unsafe, remember that your citizenship cannot be revoked simply for showing up to vote. If you have any concerns about your immigration status or the naturalization process, consult a licensed immigration attorney before the November election.