In an unexpected turn, the Latino community in South Florida is showing substantial support for President Donald Trump's aggressive immigration policies, specifically his mass deportation strategy, as highlighted in a recent analysis by the Associated Press. Despite the region being home to large Cuban, Venezuelan, and other Latin American populations, protests against these immigration measures have been notably sparse compared to previous administrations.
Take Hialeah, for instance, a city where Hispanics make up 95% of the population. Only three residents attended a city council meeting to oppose an agreement between the local police and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). A similar scenario unfolded in Coral Gables, a predominantly Cuban area, according to the news agency.
While some Cubans who voted for Trump now express regret, the overall response to stricter immigration policies indicates a rightward shift among Florida's Hispanic electorate. In the 2024 elections, Trump not only secured Miami-Dade County but also Seminole and Osceola counties, areas with growing Venezuelan communities hopeful for his success in ousting Nicolás Maduro from power. Additionally, Trump made inroads in Puerto Rican areas of Pennsylvania and traditionally Democratic border counties in Texas.
AP VoteCast surveys reveal that 7 out of 10 Hispanic voters in Florida favor reducing asylum requests at the border. Among Latino men, support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris was lower than what Joe Biden received in 2020.
Some members of the Hispanic community have openly voiced their backing of deportations. Frank Ayllon, a 41-year-old Miami resident, argues that many Latinos misunderstand Trump's policies. "People take it personally, but it's not. The truth is, the border has been open too long," Ayllon remarked.
Barbara Canales, a Hialeah resident who emigrated from Honduras with her mother, shares a similar sentiment. "You have to follow the rules. If you're here illegally, you must face the consequences," Canales stated, noting that current migration patterns differ from those of past generations.
Even among Cuban exiles, opinions on immigration are mixed. Luis Boulart, an 85-year-old Cuban who became a U.S. citizen in 2022, voted for Trump and trusts his immigration policies. In contrast, Julian Padron, a 79-year-old former political prisoner, views the president's policies as undemocratic. "Don't they see that people are still fleeing communism?" Padron questioned while watching a domino game in Little Havana.
The support for Trump among Hispanics isn't solely centered on immigration; it's also linked to his stance against socialist governments, his promises of economic growth, and his focus on reducing living costs.
Understanding Latino Support for Trump's Immigration Policies
Why do some Latinos in South Florida support Trump's deportation policies?
Many Latinos in South Florida see Trump’s immigration policies as necessary for maintaining border security and believe that following legal processes is crucial. Additionally, his stance against socialist governments and promises for economic growth resonate with them.
How has Latino support for Trump affected recent elections in Florida?
Latino support for Trump has contributed to his victories in Miami-Dade, Seminole, and Osceola counties, reflecting a shift towards the Republican party among Hispanic voters in Florida.
What are some reasons for the lack of protests against Trump’s immigration policies in South Florida?
The minimal protests can be attributed to a general acceptance or support of Trump's policies among many in the Latino community, who prioritize border security and legal immigration processes.