The Democratic Party is facing a decline in support among Latino voters, which could impact Vice President Kamala Harris’s chances in the 2024 presidential election. According to a recent NBC News poll, Latino support for the Democrats is at its lowest point in four election cycles, with more Latinos turning towards the Republican Party. Journalist Paola Ramos suggests that this shift is due to factors such as internalized racism, conservative values, and a complex relationship with identity in the U.S.
One significant issue affecting Latino voters is the anti-Blackness within the community, which has been influenced by colonization and colorism. Despite derogatory remarks made by former President Donald Trump about Haitian migrants, it has not significantly impacted Latino support for Trump. The prejudices against Black Latinos, including Haitians, can lead to some Latinos distancing themselves from their Black counterparts to align more with the dominant group in society.
Second-generation Latinos in the U.S. often have a more nuanced relationship with their heritage, viewing themselves less as immigrants and more as Americans with Latino roots. This disconnect from the immigrant label can influence their voting decisions, focusing more on issues like the economy, family values, and religion, which align with the Republican platform.
Conservatism has been on the rise within the Latino community, especially among evangelical Protestants. Religion plays a significant role in shaping their political views, with many Latino evangelicals finding common ground with Trump’s messaging on Christian nationalism. Issues like religious freedom, traditional family values, and the protection of Christian heritage are prioritized by Latino evangelical voters, leading to their support for Trump.
The shift towards the Republican Party among Latino voters is evident in recent trends. While Harris still leads among Latino voters, the gap between her and Trump has significantly narrowed since the 2020 election. This change in support could have a significant impact on the outcome of the 2024 election, especially in key battleground states where Latino votes play a crucial role.
If the Democratic Party cannot reverse this trend and regain Latino support, it could pose a challenge for Harris in her presidential bid. The influence of conservative values and internalized racism within the Latino community presents a hurdle for Democrats who rely on strong Latino support to win elections. To secure victory in critical states like Florida, Texas, and Arizona, Harris may need to address these shifting dynamics among Latino voters.