Deep Currents

The FT has a good omen on the question of how the rising tide of Hispanic voters could shape American politics:

Polls show Mr Obama beating John McCain, his Republican rival, by more than two to one among Hispanics and their support could tip the balance in the key south-western battlegrounds of New Mexico, Nevada and Colorado.

If Mr McCain loses all three, he would have to win almost all the big eastern and mid-western swing states to stand a chance of becoming president.

His apparent failure among Hispanics represents a bitter blow for a politician whose western roots and moderate stance on immigration once made him popular in the community.

The theory goes that since both candidates have avoided immigration, Hispaniscs have been gravitating towards Obama’s pitch for cutting taxes on the middle class and providing universal healthcare. Imagine that: a middle- and lower-income segment of voters aligning with someone who represents their interests!

Written: October 29th, 2008