Which Candidate has Greater Appeal to Hispanic Voters: Trump or Biden?
With the 2020 election outcomes in mind, it is imperative to understand the voting preferences of Hispanic voters, a vital demographic in the United States. The analysis of votes cast in 13 states provides the most comprehensive look into how Latinos voted in the 2020 general election. The data reveals a clear preference for Joe Biden over President Donald Trump, with Latino support ranging from a 2 to 1 ratio up to 3 to 1 in nine of these states.
Generality of Hispanic Support for Biden
In 12 out of the 13 analyzed states, Latinos favored Biden over Trump. Even in critical battleground states such as Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, the margin was at least 3 to 1 in favor of Biden. Florida, the only exception, still saw Biden's margin among Latino voters at more than 1 to 1. This overwhelming support underscores the growing influence of Hispanic voters in U.S. politics.
Conservative Nature of Hispanic Voters and Trump
It's worth noting that many legal Hispanic people are conservative by their nature. This inclination towards conservative policies may explain why a significant portion of the Hispanic electorate still favored Trump. However, the reasons behind this preference are multifaceted and complex, often influenced by economic policies and personal experiences.
Hispanic Unemployment and Economic Policies
One compelling argument for Trump's appeal to Hispanic voters is his administration's record in lowering unemployment rates. Under Trump, Hispanic employment reached an all-time high, which aligns with conservative values of economic growth and job creation. On the other hand, Joe Biden's record in Washington, particularly in relation to his son's wealth accumulation, has not resonated positively with some Hispanic voters.
Questioning Support for Trump
Several factors have diminished support for Trump among Hispanic voters, prompting a reevaluation of his appeal. Some voters express concerns about his policies concerning immigration, particularly the separation of migrant families at the U.S. border. Additionally, his attempts to deport the Dreamers and the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have been met with significant criticism.
Many Hispanic voters feel that Trump has disregarded the rights of those who seek refuge in the U.S. and has mistreated immigrants, which aligns more closely with Biden's stated policies. The notion of treating immigrants like humans, rather than mere commodities, is a deeply held belief among many Hispanic voters.
When it comes to the treatment of Highlanders, a term used to describe immigrants from Latin America, many Hispanic voters see Trump's policies as reminiscent of the slave trade. The use of derogatory terms and the harsh enforcement of immigration laws have fueled these feelings.
Conservative Views on Immigration and Border Security
Despite some conservative views, many Hispanic American citizens express reservations about open borders. They are well aware of the dangers involved in admitting individuals from countries with known issues. This concern about border security is a crucial factor in their voting preferences. Hispanic voters generally support rigorous border control measures to ensure the safety of their communities.
The sentiment among Hispanic voters is that stricter enforcement is necessary to prevent illegal immigration. This belief is rooted in the understanding that allowing unchecked entry can lead to security threats and an imbalance in the labor market.
Conclusion
While Donald Trump initially garnered support from a portion of the Hispanic electorate due to economic policies and conservative values, the combination of immigration policies, treatment of immigrants, and broader social issues has led to a significant shift in voter preferences. Joe Biden's approach to immigration and his focus on human rights and social justice have resonated more strongly with many Hispanic voters, resulting in a more robust and comprehensive support base.
For a candidate to have greater appeal, it is critical to align policies and actions with the values and experiences of the voting populace. As we move forward, both candidates must continue to address the concerns and expectations of Hispanic voters to maintain and grow their support.
Keywords: Hispanic voters, Donald Trump, Joe Biden