Cost of living and inflation are Hispanics' main concerns

Inflation and the rising cost of living are the issues that most concern Hispanics. In a recent survey, these two issues were mentioned by 54% of Latinos as their priority, while employment and the economy came in second place (44%) and health care in third (33%).

Only 29% of those surveyed expressed concern over violence and 20% about the border crisis. Twenty-one percent said they trust that Republicans can solve the problems related to inflation and the high cost of living.

The survey is part of a partnership between UnidosUS and Mi Familia Vota, conducted by BSP Research. It was done at the beginning of November, but was published this week by the organizations that participated in the study. According to UnidosUS, the results are a wake-up call for both Democrats and Republicans about the Latino vote and their concerns.

"This research shows that Latino voters are sending a warning message to both parties and continues to paint a clear picture that both parties need to do more to better engage and expand support with Hispanic voters," UnidosUS detailed.

An opportunity to win over Hispanic voters

Meanwhile, Héctor Sánchez Barba, executive director of Mi Familia Vota, explained that the Hispanic vote will be decisive in the 2024 presidential elections. He pointed out that 22% of those surveyed will vote in a presidential election for the first time.

"Latino voters will once again prove decisive in the upcoming presidential election. Looking to 2024, we are excited to see that 22% of Latinos will be voting in their first Presidential election, 16% for the first time in ANY federal election, and that 38% of the Latino electorate is new since 2016. These new voters are an incredible opportunity to organize and build Latino political power. We have a year, and this poll is critical in helping to understand and begin organizing to turn out Latino voters in 2024," Sánchez Barba explained.

The poll data comes after another study was released showing that support for Trump among Hispanics also increased and Biden's lead among this group was reduced to single digits: Biden has 50% and Donald Trump 42%. Meanwhile, among Blacks, at least 22% back Trump. This is "a level unseen in presidential politics for a Republican in modern times,” indicated The New York Times which published the data.

Similarly, Americans indicated that they trust the Republican's economic policies: by a margin of 59% to 37%. Americans said they trust Trump more than Biden on this issue. The New York Times pointed out this is "the largest gap of any issue.”