Inside America’s Hispanic Divide: How Family, Faith & Finances Shape Votes

In Philadelphia, 22-year-old Savvy Gurule, a University of Pennsylvania student, is enthusiastic about Kamala Harris. Her support stems from her belief in human rights, especially given her queer identity and her sister’s experience as a transgender woman. But her father, a first-generation Mexican immigrant and business owner, plans to vote for Donald Trump because he believes his policies are better for business. Though he nearly dislikes Trump personally, he sees him as beneficial economically. Her mother, meanwhile, remains undecided, adding to the family’s complex political landscape.

The Conservative Cousin: Religion Influences Political Leanings

Within Gurule’s extended family, most support Harris. However, one cousin stands apart, voting for Trump due to his deeply religious upbringing and conservative values. His choice reflects a unique subset of Hispanic voters who align with Trump’s views on social issues, highlighting how faith and cultural traditions influence voting.

A Working-Class Perspective on Immigration and Employment

Louis, a painting contractor in North Carolina, has lived in the U.S. for 25 years. Though his family supports Democrats, he hears mixed sentiments among his Hispanic workers. Some are frustrated with the current border situation, as recent immigrants receive more rapid assistance than they did, sparking resentment. Despite valuing their role in the economy, Louis finds the “open borders” approach problematic, a concern shared by many Hispanic voters.

Navigating the ‘Awkward Duality’ of Immigration

Gurule, like Louis, observes a tension in the Hispanic community regarding immigration. Even as immigrants themselves, they express discomfort with recent Democratic policies on the border. This paradox captures the internal struggle many Hispanic voters face — supporting humanitarian policies while questioning how these policies are implemented.

A Complex, Crucial Voting Bloc

The Hispanic electorate is anything but homogeneous. Individual experiences, economic interests, cultural identities, and personal values create a broad spectrum of political perspectives. As shown by the stories of Gurule and Louis, Hispanic voters are increasingly crucial in U.S. elections, with their choices poised to impact America’s political landscape.