By Peninsula 360 Press with information from Raúl Ayrala.
Every 30 seconds in the United States, a Latino turns 18. In 2022, some 34.5 million Hispanic Americans became eligible to vote. In 2024 the number could increase, with migration and the economy being the most pressing issues for this voting sector, one that seeks a change in the way the country is run.
But what are the expectations, hopes and dreams of these young Latino voters? Peninsula 360 Press spoke with two young people who will vote for the first time in presidential elections in 2024.
?As an immigrant, I think that the most important things for my community is immigration reform. The last time something like this happened was in 1986 and we are already in time for something new to happen for all the people who remain undocumented in this country and deserve a chance?, said Sarahí Espinoza Salamanca.
What worries you the most right now?
?The truth, the economy. "How do I work in construction and there hasn't been much work for a long time?" said Adrián Espinoza.
However, a pending issue with youth is student loans.
?Right now we have the issue very pending, we will lend you money from when you go to university. Many young people, normally with DACA or who are born here, many of them even depend on these loans to pay their tuition because their parents cannot do so. So, when they graduate they hope that, whether the president we currently have or the one who follows, can forgive them those loans so that they can continue their lives because many graduate with very high loans, some go up to 100 thousand dollars, so it is very difficult for them to start their normal life, because they have to pay that enormous debt?, Sarahí stressed.
To support these young people it is necessary to understand them, a situation that is not easy for the next presidential candidates.
"I would like to see a younger candidate," Adrián highlighted, while Sarahí highlighted the fear of change on the part of those who could lead the country.
?I think that the people who are in the presidency right now already have very old ideas and fear of change, and what we as a Latin community are dealing with is change. People who are older now are very used to how things are done and that has to change? said the young voter.
In that sense, he considered that, unfortunately, of the two candidates who are potentially going to be part of this race, young people do not believe in either of them, "so people say that instead of choosing the best of the two worse, better not to choose any?
The situation does not look easy, since there is no enthusiasm for a sector that, without a doubt, must raise its voice in favor of the entire Latin community that cannot do so, due to its immigration status.
"The government also has to help its people," Adrián pointed out.
Yes, it's going to be difficult and, even me, being my first time voting for a president, would you say, well, it's not going to be an easy lesson and I'm going to gladly vote for my president in whom I believe, it's not going to be Well, and it's unfortunate because for the first time (I should) be excited about going to vote, unfortunately in this election it's not going to be something like that, unless someone else comes out and says I'm going to run for president, they can change the things, but the way we're going right now it seems like it's going to be a little difficult,” Sarahí stressed.
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