An aroma of Mexican pozole filled Maria Guadalupe “Lupe” Arreola’s backyard as Latino volunteers gathered to promote Democratic candidates in a phone bank. Arreola emphasized the importance of Latino citizens exercising their right to vote, regardless of their political preferences. The volunteers enjoyed a delicious pozole before making calls to encourage Latino voters to participate in the upcoming election.
Both Democratic and Republican campaigns have been actively engaging with the Latino community in Nevada. Latino residents make up about 30% of the state’s population, with an estimated 20% of the total vote in the general election. This demographic has the potential to sway the election in this battleground state.
Democratic officials like Sen. Jacky Rosen and U.S. Rep. Dina Titus recognize the significance of the Latino vote in their campaigns. They have been actively engaging with Latino voters, addressing their concerns, and building relationships within the community. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have also made appearances in the Las Vegas Valley to court Latino voters.
Latino voters care about a range of issues, including inflation, jobs, housing, immigration, and crime. Recent polls indicate that while the majority of Latino voters lean Democratic, Trump has been gaining ground in 2024. Outreach efforts from both parties have been criticized for not doing enough to engage with the Latino community effectively.
Campaigns are being urged to promote more Latinos to senior positions and be more transparent about their political contributions. Organizations like UnidosUS and League of United Latin American Citizens are advocating for increased engagement and representation of Latinos in political campaigns. Efforts to reach out to the Latino community include hosting events, providing information in Spanish, and addressing issues that resonate with Latino voters.
The Trump campaign has emphasized a consistent message across demographics, highlighting issues that impact all citizens. The Harris campaign has focused on creating community hubs to mobilize Latino voters, hosting events related to financial literacy and engaging with voters on a personal level.
As the 2024 election approaches, the Latino vote in Nevada could play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Political campaigns must continue to engage with and listen to the Latino community to earn their trust and support at the ballot box. The efforts to reach out to Latino voters and address their concerns are essential for a more inclusive and representative democracy.