Hispanic voters show significant shift toward Donald Trump in November 5 election

SAN ANTONIO — Latino voters showed a significant shift in the Nov. 5 election, with many backing former President Donald Trump, marking a marked departure from 2020 voting patterns.

According to CNN exit polls, 45% of Latino voters nationwide chose Trump, sharply higher than the 65% who supported President Joe Biden in the 2020 general election.

This trend has been particularly pronounced in Texas, especially along the border.

“Just because you’re Hispanic doesn’t mean you’re going to vote Democratic,” said UTSA political scientist John Taylor.

Taylor noted that Latino support was critical to Trump.

“Latinos tend to be more socially conservative. Democrats need to understand this,” Taylor said.

He emphasized the importance of addressing issues such as immigration, the economy and, in some cases, social issues that have played a role in shaping the preferences of Latino voters.

While major urban counties in Texas remained largely blue, Vice President Kamala Harris’ margin fell. Her 2020 showing was four points lower than Biden’s, even in traditionally Democratic-leaning Bexar County.

Meanwhile, many counties along the Texas-Mexico border that were reliably Democratic turned red in this election.

“People don’t understand how important this is,” Taylor added, pointing to Starr County, a historically Democratic area that voted Republican for the first time.

For many Latino male voters, economic issues were a major factor in their decision to support Trump.

Bexar County voter Adam Salazar explained his vote by citing dissatisfaction with the current economy and rising housing costs.

“Inflation plus housing, rents are sky-high right now,” Salazar said.

Another voter, Ruben Torres, also supported Trump, prioritizing economic stability.

“The more money in your pockets, the better,” Torres said. “If you don’t have money, then everyone is struggling. The last four years have been bad.”

Voter Rudy Cortinas echoed that sentiment: “He’s the only one doing what he says he’s going to do.”

Looking ahead, Taylor believes Democrats will have to work harder to understand Latino voters.

“They need to understand and address the issues that particularly resonate with Latino voters, especially pocketbook issues and social issues,” Taylor said.