2024 Election: Gen Z Latinx Voters’ Ambivalence Towards Candidates Trump and Harris
A number of Latinx Gen Z voters are expressing uncertainty regarding their support for either Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. Concerns around immigration policies and citizenship complexities contribute to their reluctance to participate in the electoral process. Many in this demographic feel disillusioned with traditional voting mechanisms, favoring protest politics instead.
In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, a significant number of Latinx Gen Z voters express dissatisfaction with both major candidates, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. This sentiment stems from concerns regarding immigration policies, which they believe have failed to adequately address the complexities surrounding citizenship and safety for individuals from Latin American countries. Alina Andino, a 26-year-old voter, articulates the frustrations of contemporary Latinx youth, stating, “We can fix your houses; you can have our tacos. But the people that live in Mexico, or say, Puerto Rico, you know, can’t come here safely without a bunch of hate.” Despite her commitment to vote, Andino has contemplated abstention due to her lack of confidence in the candidates’ abilities to effect positive change. The Latino Policy Forum highlights a broader trend among Latinx youth, indicating that they are significantly less likely to register and participate in elections. Sylvia Puente, the president of the organization, noted that Latinos represent the demographic with the lowest registration rates among eligible voters, especially within the Gen Z cohort. Perla Santoyo, another Gen Z member, expresses frustration over the apathy of her peers regarding the electoral process. “It feels infuriating, honestly, to constantly trying to prove a point to Gen Zers who don’t want to vote in this election,” she remarks. Santoyo, who has long awaited her U.S. citizenship, stresses the importance of her peers’ voting efforts as crucial for making a difference in the political landscape. As discussions unfold, it becomes evident that trust is a vital factor impacting voter confidence. Rolando Herrejon, a 25-year-old voter, expressed skepticism towards Kamala Harris, referencing her ambiguous response concerning changes from the Biden administration, stating, “What would be the point of having somebody to come into presidency and change nothing?” He has opted to support Trump primarily based on economic issues, even amid concerns over immigration policies. Conversely, Andino views Harris as the “lesser evil,” acknowledging her attempts to engage the Latino community more directly through Spanish-language advertisements and her identity as a woman in leadership. She notes, “Women run the world. And I always tell people, like, if women weren’t popping out babies, none of us would be here even having this conversation.”
The 2024 presidential election is poised to be pivotal, especially with the increasing political engagement of Gen Z voters, a demographic that encompasses younger members of the Latinx community. This group is expressing considerable hesitation towards both major candidates, highlighting concerns particularly about immigration policy. As they confront issues of citizenship, safety, and systemic political engagement, their perspectives underscore a larger trend of protest-based political activism over traditional electoral participation. Understanding these sentiments is critical for comprehending the potential outcome of the upcoming elections and the implications for the broader Latino electorate.
In summary, the sentiments of Gen Z Latinx voters regarding the 2024 election reflect a critical examination of their options. Many express profound discontent with current political candidates, particularly regarding their stances on immigration. The divide in trust between Vice President Harris and former President Trump illustrates the complexities of voter priorities, particularly among younger demographics. As these individuals navigate their political identities, their engagement—or lack thereof—will undoubtedly influence the election’s trajectory.
Original Source: abc7chicago.com
