Grand Rapids resident Clarissa Mata ties voting to family history and economic costs

Clarissa Mata, 24, works as an engagement coordinator for a nonprofit in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

She plans to vote in the upcoming 2026 election based on two main concerns: immigration policy and affordability.

Mata identifies as a supporter of progressive candidates. Her political views were shaped by her father, who was deported from the United States five years ago.

He died in Mexico two years later. Mata said she watched the 2008 presidential election with him as a child. She stated that he instilled a passion for politics in her from a young age.

She views her right to vote as a way to carry on his voice. Her father never had the opportunity to cast a ballot. Mata said, "I really do take it as my responsibility to make sure that his voice is heard through my vote."

Affordability is the second major issue for Mata. She noted that her generation faces the toughest economy of any recent cohort. Many young adults are living at home because they cannot afford to move out.

Mata returned to her parents' home after living paycheck to paycheck. She said she could not afford much outside of her bills when she lived on her own. She described it as difficult for young people to start adult lives when costs are so high.

She advises candidates to be bold in their stances rather than staying in the middle to avoid losing swing voters. She pointed to progressive candidates winning in various areas of the country because of their clear passion.

Mata called voting the greatest superpower available to citizens. She encouraged people to register and vote in every election, including primaries. She said, "Voting is our greatest superpower."