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-Editorial
In the wake of the November 5th elections, experts gathered at this week’s Ethnic Media Services panel to explore the factors shaping election results and what they signify for America’s political landscape. Speakers addressed diverse issues including political violence, women’s voting trends, the impact of immigration, and the role of communities of color.
Professor Robert Pape of the University of Chicago highlighted how demographic shifts are influencing voter behavior, especially within multiracial coalitions. Pape noted the significant role of religious and family-oriented values in unifying a diverse GOP voter base, which now includes a substantial number of blue-collar Hispanic voters. He warned of potential political violence in response to aggressive policies, suggesting a tense future if political actions intensify, particularly around immigration enforcement.
“The public tends to expect violence on predictable dates, but, much like terrorism, political violence is unpredictable,” Pape stated. He likened the current situation to “wildfire season,” where social tensions could ignite unexpectedly. He urged vigilance and cautioned against a false sense of security if violence does not immediately occur, underscoring the unpredictable nature of political flashpoints.
Kelly Dittmar, Director of Research at Rutgers University’s Center for American Women and Politics, discussed evolving trends among women voters. She highlighted the persistent gender gap favoring Democratic candidates and the growing divide among white women voters based on education. College-educated white women increasingly lean Democratic, while non-college-educated white women predominantly support Republicans.
While reproductive rights emerged as a key concern, Dittmar noted that economic issues and democracy protection also resonated strongly with women voters across demographics. “Women voters are not a monolithic group,” she emphasized, urging a nuanced approach to understanding the diversity of women’s voting behaviors.
John C. Yang, President of Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), shared insights from a voter poll conducted with over 1,800 members of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. Yang noted a significant increase in first-time voters, particularly among younger voters. Although the Democratic vote share remained high among AANHPI communities, it has slightly declined since 2020, reflecting complex motivations that demand further exploration.
AAJC’s research also found broad support within AANHPI communities for family-based immigration policies, pathways to citizenship, and addressing anti-Asian hate. Yang emphasized the importance of policymakers recognizing the unique concerns of the AANHPI community, especially regarding equity and representation.
Vanessa Cardenas, Executive Director of America’s Voice, highlighted economic concerns as a dominant theme among voters, surpassing immigration as a top issue. She acknowledged widespread fear within immigrant communities due to the possibility of intensified immigration enforcement. “Immigrant communities are resilient,” Cardenas remarked, expressing confidence in their ability to withstand future challenges.
According to Cardenas, CNN exit polls indicated that most Americans favor legal immigration pathways over mass deportation. “America needs migration for its future prosperity,” she added, calling for communities to support equitable immigration reforms.
Ben Jealous, Executive Director of the Sierra Club and former President of the NAACP, discussed the Sierra Club’s shift towards inclusivity and environmental justice. Under Jealous’ leadership, the organization has focused on tackling pollution in marginalized communities disproportionately affected by industrial practices.
Reflecting on the economic struggles that parallel divisions seen in post-Brexit Britain, Jealous pointed to job loss due to factory closures as a contributor to social despair and division. However, he expressed optimism about the recent Inflation Reduction Act, which he believes could create jobs and reinvigorate local economies.
