The recent U.S. election revealed a growing disconnect between the Democratic party and immigrant and minority voters. The notion that Republican-leaning immigrants are simply voting against their self-interest is inaccurate.
While immigrants generally hold liberal views, even those who do not may hesitate before embracing significant societal changes. Having left their homes and lives to seek better opportunities, voting for Donald Trump and the Republican Party represented a focus on issues such as economic stability, safety, and education – priorities many immigrants perceived as less risky.
Democrats have underestimated the conservative leanings among many immigrants, relying instead on identity politics or assuming immigration policy alone dictates voting behavior. This strategy proved disastrous on Election Day.
Voting data shows significant shifts in areas with large immigrant populations. For instance, in Allentown, PA, home to a substantial Syrian and Hispanic community, the Democratic margin narrowed considerably between 2016 and 2024. Similar trends were observed in [City], MA (80% Latino), and [City], TX (97% Hispanic), where Republicans achieved a victory for the first time in over a century.
Many Democrats questioned why, despite the President-elect’s progressive platform, so many immigrants and Latinos voted Republican.
Immigrants and minorities, especially working-class individuals, prioritize economic security and other core values. Regardless of their origin, religion, or background, many found the Republican message of self-reliance, economic opportunity, and traditional values more appealing.
This doesn’t mean immigrants disregard immigration issues. Their perspectives are often more complex than commonly perceived.
Consider border security. The assumption is that Trump’s rhetoric would alienate Latino immigrants. However, an October poll indicated that a significant percentage of both U.S.-born and foreign-born Latino respondents didn’t feel targeted by Trump’s anti-immigrant stance.
Some immigrants actively distance themselves from newer arrivals, aiming for assimilation. They share concerns that uncontrolled immigration could fuel anti-immigrant sentiment, even if they don’t believe it would directly affect them.
Further complicating the issue is the unfair and convoluted U.S. immigration system. Many skilled workers on visas contribute significantly to the economy yet face precarious legal situations. Thousands more are undocumented, living in constant fear of deportation. From this standpoint, it’s understandable that many view unauthorized border crossings as circumventing a broken system.
Adding to the misunderstanding is the tendency of some Democrats to label immigrants as “low-information” voters, citing language barriers and access limitations. While these challenges exist, particularly in rural areas, most immigrants make informed decisions.
My parents, a former civil engineer and a former OB-GYN, recently became naturalized citizens and voted for the first time. Despite limited English proficiency, they meticulously studied every ballot amendment, reflecting their experiences in Syria where such democratic processes are absent.
Both parties should strive to better understand voters like my parents. This will be key to reaching and engaging a growing segment of the electorate. The number of eligible U.S. voters who are naturalized citizens has significantly increased in recent years.
It’s crucial for America to understand that immigrant voting patterns are not based solely on superficial factors. The ballot box represents a practical tool to shape their future – a tool they use thoughtfully. Hopefully, politicians will soon make a better effort to understand and address their concerns.