A recent national survey conducted by various organizations in the United States highlighted key issues that motivated Latino voters during the midterm elections, including the economy, abortion laws, migration, and climate change.
The survey, which gathered opinions from 5,400 Latinos at polling stations, revealed that the top concern for Latino voters is addressing inflation and the increasing cost of living. While generally supportive of the Biden administration’s policies, Latino voters emphasize the need for action on inflation, as stated by Kim Kilps-Asensio, an analyst at BSP Research, a firm specializing in Hispanic voter analysis.
In addition to economic worries, the survey underscored concerns about reproductive rights, migration, climate change, and political polarization among the Spanish-speaking community in the U.S., constituting 19% of the population.
In a closely contested political landscape between Democrats and Republicans, minorities like Latinos could play a pivotal role in tipping the balance of power, echoing pre-election forecasts.
Clarissa Martínez de Castro, vice president of UnidosUS, emphasized the significant influence of Hispanic voters in shaping American politics, signaling a need for both parties to heed their concerns.
While historical trends show a majority of Latino voters aligning with Democrats, recent shifts suggest Republicans are gaining ground, particularly concerning economic issues. To secure and expand Hispanic support, Democrats are urged to engage more with this community and strengthen their economic messaging.
The study, sponsored by several organizations, reflected that nationally, Latinos favored Democrats by a 2-to-1 margin, except in Florida where Republicans secured a notable majority.
Gabriel R. Sanchez, vice president of research at BSP Research, highlighted how Latino voters’ support for conservative options has increased, signaling underlying frustrations about inflation despite general backing for the Biden administration’s policies.
Jacqueline Martinez Garcel, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation, stressed the enduring significance of Latino voters in national elections, emphasizing the need for elected officials to prioritize issues important to these communities post-election.
