We reported on Tuesday about the major demographic problem facing Republicans. So, how can the GOP start winning larger shares of non-white voters? Reforming the immigration system might not be the answer.
Why not? Because reforming the nation’s immigration laws could very well create a whole bunch of new Democrats, including in some key swing states. Let’s break it down.
The rise in the Hispanic population in the United States is problematic for the GOP, but so far it’s been quite slow. In 2004, Hispanics made up 6 percent of all voters. That ticked up to 7 percent in 2008 and 8 percent in 2012. Census voting and registration data shows that Hispanics make up significant chunks of the population in some key states, but they are not yet a well-organized voting bloc. This chart shows the states with largest share of Hispanics (including non-citizens). In each state Hispanic voter turnout lags their share of the citizen population, demonstrating the political potential they could have if they were better mobilized.
COMMENTS
Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.