Latinos will make up the largest minority voting group in 2020. What can the history and rise of the Latino vote tell us about the changing U.S. political landscape?
A recent report shows an increasingly energized Hispanic electorate, with participation outpacing demographic growth in some key 2020 states. How could a new generation of Latino voters shape America's future?
2.2 million Latinos were registered to vote in the 2018 midterms. More than a quarter of those who cast a ballot said they were voting in a midterm election for the first time.
Latinos are not a panethnic group, as members of the demographic hail from several Spanish-speaking countries. Cuban Americans in Florida might vote differently than Mexican Americans in Texas.
Do members of this diverse group share a common political identity or have similar priorities? What are some common misconceptions about Latino voters?
What unique conditions led to increased Hispanic participation in Texas? How could this demographic affect election outcomes? How are political parties responding to the growing number of Latino voters?
Guests:
- Benjamin Francis-Fallon, assistant professor of history at Western Carolina University and author of the forthcoming book "The Rise of the Latino Vote: A History"
- Olivia P. Tallet, senior reporter covering Latino issues and culture for the Houston Chronicle
"The Source" is a live call-in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. Leave a message before the program at (210) 615-8982. During the live show, call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet at @TPRSource.
*This interview was recorded on Thursday, July 11.
