In Allentown, Pennsylvania, Latino protesters voiced their anger at a Trump rally following derogatory remarks made about Puerto Rico. The protest highlighted shifting sentiments among Puerto Rican voters just days before the presidential election, indicating a potential shift against Trump as the community rallies the support of its voters, signaling influence in the election’s outcome.
In Allentown, Pennsylvania, a predominantly Hispanic city, a protest emerged on October 29 outside a rally held by former President Donald Trump, where demonstrators voiced their displeasure through chants such as “Immigrants make America great!” This slogan directly counters Trump’s own “Make America Great Again” mantra. The protest was fueled by recent derogatory comments made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe at a previous Trump rally, which compared Puerto Rico to “a floating island of garbage,” leading to heightened feelings of offense among the Latino community, particularly those of Puerto Rican descent. Ivet Figueroa, a clerk who was raised in Allentown by Puerto Rican parents, expressed her dismay saying, “How dare him!” This controversy comes at a crucial time as the United States presidential election approaches, with polls indicating that the battleground state of Pennsylvania is a pivotal focus where a small voter shift could decisively influence the outcome between Trump and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. The state is home to over 400,000 Puerto Ricans, and organizers are observing a shift in sentiment among Latino voters, with reports of Republicans reconsidering their support for Trump. Armando Jimenez of Make the Road Action Pennsylvania noted, “We have heard people actually changing their minds, who are Republicans and now because of this are going to vote for Kamala.” While the protest on Tuesday was significant, attendance was limited due to fears and logistical issues with road closures. Nonetheless, it underscored the potential impact of Latino voters, who are recognized as the fastest-growing voting demographic in the U.S. Michelle Fernandez, a Puerto Rican Trump supporter, dismissed Hinchcliffe’s comments, emphasizing that her decision hinges on immigration and economic issues rather than isolated remarks. As Trump geared up to address the crowd, local political leaders voiced their outrage over Hinchcliffe’s comment; Allentown Mayor Matthew Tuerk specifically referred to it as “an insult to the people here in Allentown!” The protest, while not overwhelmingly attended, highlighted significant cultural sensitivity and the shifting political landscape as Election Day looms closer amid mounting grievances against Trump’s rhetoric and policies.
The protest in Allentown, Pennsylvania reflects growing discontent among Latino communities, particularly Puerto Ricans, towards Trump following a comedian’s disparaging remarks about Puerto Rico during a rally. This incident has emerged just days before a crucial election, which could hinge on the opinions of Latino voters in battleground states like Pennsylvania. With a history of leaning Democratic, Puerto Rican voters are now responding strongly to comments perceived as insulting, indicating their shifting allegiances as politicians gear up for the upcoming presidential election.
In summary, the protests in Allentown signify a crucial moment for Latino voters in Pennsylvania, reflecting a broader sentiment of disenchantment with Trump’s rhetoric, especially following derogatory remarks aimed at Puerto Rico. This demographic’s dissatisfaction may influence the election results as many reconsider their political alignments. The response from both local leaders and voters underscores the potential power of the Latino community in shaping the outcome of the presidential race.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
