The Role of the Latino Vote in the 2016 Elections

Abstract

A record 27.3 million Latinos will be eligible to vote in the 2016 US elections. This paper encapsulates a series of panel discussions at American University’s 2nd Annual Latino Public Affairs Forum on the potential impact of the Latino vote. Panelists identified several factors that may shape electoral outcomes, including the diverse makeup and interests of the Latino community, immigration’s role as a wedge issue, and partisan and non-partisan effort to engage with, register, and turn out voters.

Keywords: Annual Latino Public Affairs Forum, American University, Latino, Hispanic, Voter Turnout, 2016 Elections, Immigration, Party Affiliation, Swing States, Presidential Candidates