How Trump is swaying Hispanic voters away from Harris

Donald Trump has strategically been focusing on the Hispanic electorate, aiming to capitalise on issues like immigration as he campaigns against Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race. During a town hall with undecided Latino voters on Univision, Trump emphasised immigration concerns, presenting himself as aligned with Hispanic opposition to illegal migration across the US-Mexico border. His broader criticisms of the Biden-Harris administration form part of an effort to weaken Harris’s support among this key voting group.

Immigration: A Key Issue for Trump’s Hispanic Strategy

At the Univision town hall, Trump claimed Hispanic voters were strongly opposed to illegal immigration, particularly those living near the southern border. He argued, "We need people to come in legally," criticising the Biden-Harris administration for allowing what he called dangerous individuals into the country, including "murderers, drug dealers, and terrorists." Trump asserted that illegal immigrants were entering the US without proper vetting, creating a national security risk. Hispanic Americans, he suggested, feel the effects of this more acutely than others.

When asked about the potential labour gap if illegal immigrants were deported, Trump maintained that legal immigration should cover the country’s needs, while illegal entry exacerbates crime and instability. These controversial points, however, resonate with a segment of Hispanic voters concerned about the economic and social implications of illegal migration.

Harris’s Struggles with Immigration

Harris, on the other hand, has faced difficulties engaging Hispanic voters on the issue of immigration. Despite her responsibility for overseeing border issues, she has not been able to make significant progress, leaving her open to criticism. Many Hispanic voters, especially in swing states, have expressed dissatisfaction with how the Biden-Harris administration has handled immigration. This frustration has left Harris vulnerable to attacks from Trump, who is gaining traction within this demographic, particularly among younger men.

Polls show Trump is making significant gains among Hispanic voters compared to his 2020 performance, while Harris’s support has remained relatively flat. A Suffolk University/USA Today poll indicates she maintains a narrow lead among Hispanics in battleground states like Arizona and Nevada, but Trump has closed the gap. Additionally, a Fox News poll suggests Harris’s 52% support among Hispanics is a decline from President Biden’s 2020 numbers.

Trump’s Broader Campaign Message

Trump’s town hall extended beyond immigration, linking the issue to concerns about the economy and national security, themes that continue to resonate with many Hispanic voters. He pointed to the strain on local resources, especially in areas experiencing high levels of immigration, such as hospitals and schools being overwhelmed. Trump painted a picture of everyday difficulties, such as grocery shortages and increased rent, due to the pressure on infrastructure.

These broader critiques of the Biden-Harris administration feed into Trump’s narrative of chaos and government failure, a message that he hopes will cement his support among Hispanic voters affected by these issues. He portrayed Harris as lenient on border security, in contrast to his vision of strong enforcement and economic stability.

Trump’s Appeal to Hispanic Voters

Despite Harris’s efforts to connect with Hispanic voters through immigration reform and economic policies, Trump appears to be making headway. Polls suggest his hardline stance on immigration, coupled with his focus on job security and economic growth, is resonating with portions of the Hispanic community. His call for prioritising legal immigration over illegal entry has found support among those worried about jobs and public services.

While Harris still holds majority support from Hispanic voters, Trump has gained a notable foothold among younger Hispanic men. This shift may be due to his emphasis on economic issues, which are often a top priority for working-class Hispanic voters. His pledge to boost economic growth and bring jobs back to the US has struck a chord with those concerned about financial stability.

The Battle for Hispanic Voters

Trump’s growing appeal is particularly evident in states like Florida, where polls show him leading Harris. His popularity among Cuban Americans and Venezuelan Americans, in particular, suggests a broader trend of Latinos leaning towards the Republican candidate. Trump’s success in Florida during the 2020 election, where he secured significant Hispanic support, gives him a strong foundation for 2024.

Nevertheless, the Hispanic electorate remains divided. Harris retains support from progressive Hispanic voters who align more closely with the Biden administration’s social and economic policies. However, Trump’s appeal to younger male voters and conservative-leaning Hispanics presents a challenge for Harris as she seeks to consolidate her base while reaching undecided voters.

Harris has emphasised the administration’s achievements on healthcare and economic recovery, but the ongoing border crisis continues to weaken her standing among some Hispanic voters. Trump has effectively exploited this vulnerability, and as the 2024 election draws nearer, the competition for Hispanic votes is intensifying.

For Harris to win back these voters, she will need more than just rhetoric—she will need a solid plan to address key concerns like immigration and economic growth. As Trump continues to gain momentum, the outcome of the 2024 presidential race could hinge on the support of the Hispanic community.