Republican candidate for president Donald Trump recently visited the city of Reading, Pennsylvania after a controversial joke at one of his rallies threatened to alienate the swing state’s significant Hispanic population. The joke, made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe at a Trump rally in New York, referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage,” sparking outrage and accusations of racism. This incident led to concerns that it could impact the relationship between Latino voters and the Republican party, potentially affecting the upcoming presidential election in the swing state.
Pennsylvania is a crucial swing state in the US presidential election, with its 19 electoral votes often playing a deciding role in determining the outcome. The city of Reading, with a population of around 100,000, is the fourth-largest city in Pennsylvania. According to the latest census, two out of every three residents in Reading are Hispanic or Latino, making this demographic group a key voting bloc in the state. Despite the controversy surrounding the joke made at the Trump rally, some members of the Puerto Rican community in Reading continue to support Trump and the Republican party, emphasizing their pride in being Americans.
The presidential candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, are actively campaigning in Pennsylvania, recognizing the state’s significance in the election. Democratic Party volunteer Teddy Vasquez highlighted the impact of the joke on Latino voters, noting that it influenced at least one individual to change their vote. The election in Pennsylvania is crucial for both parties, as winning the state could ultimately determine the overall outcome of the presidential race. With the growing Hispanic population in Reading and other parts of the state, engaging and respecting this community is essential for securing their support.
The importance of Pennsylvania as a swing state is underscored by the fact that no Democratic nominee has won the presidential race without carrying the state since 1948. Puerto Ricans, although unable to vote in general elections due to living on the island, can still influence the election through relatives residing on the mainland who can vote. With Puerto Ricans being the second-largest Hispanic group in the US, after Mexican-Americans, their support can significantly impact the election outcome. Both parties are making efforts to appeal to this demographic and secure their votes in the upcoming election.
Despite the divisive joke made at the Trump rally, there are differing perspectives within the Puerto Rican community in Reading regarding their support for the Republican party. While some individuals were offended by the joke, others like Sarah Torres, a volunteer with the Republican party, remain steadfast in their support for Trump. Torres emphasized that her family is not offended by the comments, as they are proud Americans who believe in the values represented by Trump and the Republican party. As the candidates intensify their efforts to win over voters in Pennsylvania, the support of the Hispanic community, including Puerto Ricans, will be crucial in determining the outcome of the election in the swing state.
