Consider This from NPR How Conflict Can Influence Voters
Mar 5, 2024
Michael Bustamante, a history professor at the University of Miami and author of Cuban Memory Wars, explores how foreign conflicts shape immigrant voter patterns. He discusses the significant influence of Arab American voters during Super Tuesday, particularly regarding concerns over President Biden's foreign policy. The conversation highlights the evolving dynamics within Cuban American voting, shaped by historical trauma and their leanings toward the Republican Party. Bustamante emphasizes the importance of political engagement and its implications for democracy in a tightly contested election.
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Michigan's Uncommitted Voters
- In Michigan's Democratic primary, over 13% of voters, many Arab Americans, voted uncommitted.
- This was a message to Joe Biden about his support for Israel in the Gaza war.
Foreign Policy's Impact on Immigrant Voters
- U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts has historically shaped immigrant voting patterns.
- The "war on terror" shifted Arab and Muslim Americans towards Democrats, while Reagan solidified Cuban American support for Republicans.
Foreign Policy's Influence
- Foreign policy generally doesn't heavily influence immigrant voters.
- However, crises in their home countries, where they feel the U.S. should intervene, can sway their votes.
