Here’s Why the Latino Vote Is So Divided
The truth is we do not all hold the same interests
It can be difficult for people outside of the Latino community to comprehend. But socialization, nationality, and geography all play significant factors in why the Latino vote is one of the most divided among America’s largest and most diverse ethnic group.
Let’s begin at the beginning. Because somehow, the simplest explanation seems to be the hardest for people to get.
Once and for all, Latinos are not a racial group. That option isn’t on the Census. You have to choose a specific race or ethnicity. You can choose White, Black, Asian, American Indian, or Pacific Islander. According to Pew Research, 94% of all Americans choose just one of those five categories offered on the Census and other documentation. In the Latino community, only 63% choose one of those categories, many choosing to write in their own category.
Latinos are presented as single-issue voters quite too often when it comes to immigration. Their voting patterns would suggest otherwise.
You can consider yourself Black and be Latino. Or you can forego your Latino identity completely and identify as White. This flight to Whiteness is part…
