By james art 
In an unexpected twist, the Latin American community in South Florida shows significant support for the aggressive immigration policies of President Donald Trump, more specially his strategy for mass deportation, as emphasized in the recent analysis of the Associated Press. Although the region is home to large Cuban, Venezuelan and other Latin American populations, protests against these immigration measures are significantly scarce compared to previous administrations.
Take, for example, a Hialeah city in which the Spaniards make up 95% of the population. Only three residents attended a meeting of the City Council to oppose an agreement between local police and US immigration and customs implementation (ICE). A similar scenario unfolded in Coral Gables, mostly Cuban region, according to the news agency.
While some of the Cubans who voted for Trump are now regretting, the general response to the tougher immigration policies shows a change to the right among the Spanish electorate of Florida. In the 2024 elections, Trump not only secured the Miami-Dad County, but also the County Seminol and Oseola, areas with growing Venezuelan communities, who hoped for his success in the overthrow of Nicholas Maduro from power. In addition, Trump interfered in Puerto Rican regions of Pennsylvania and traditionally democratic border cities in Texas.
AP Votocast studies have revealed that 7 out of 10 Spanish voters in Florida are favorable to reduce border asylum requests. Among the Latin American men, support for Democrat candidate Kamala Harris was more than what Joe Biden received in 2020.
Some members of the Spanish community have openly expressed their support for deportations. Frank Aylon, a 41-year-old Miami resident, claims that many Latinos are misunderstood Trump’s policies. “People accept it personally, but it’s not. The truth is that the border is too long,” Aylon noted.
Barbara Channels, a Hyaleya resident who emigrated from Honduras with her mother, shares similar moods. “You have to follow the rules. If you are here illegally, you must face the consequences,” Channel said, noting that current migration models are different from those of past generations.
Even among the Cuban exiles, immigration opinions are mixed. Louis Bulart, an 85-year-old Cuban, who became a US citizen in 2022, voted for Trump and trusts his immigration policies. In contrast, Julian Padron, a 79-year-old former political prisoner, views the president’s policy as an undemocratic one. “Do they not see that people are still running away from communism?” He asked Paden as she watched a domino game in little Havana.
Support for Trump among the Spaniards is not focused solely on immigration; He is also related to his position against socialist governments, his promises of economic growth and his focus on reducing the cost of living.
Understanding Latin American support for Trump immigration policies
Why do some Latinos in South Florida support Trump’s deportation policies?
Many Latinos in South Florida see Trump’s immigration policies as necessary to maintain border security and believe that following legal processes are crucial. In addition, his position against socialist governments and promises of economic growth resonate with them.
How did Latin American support for Trump affect the last Florida election?
Latin’s support for Trump has contributed to his victories in the cities of Miami-Dad, Seminol and Oseola, reflecting a transition to the Republican Party among the Spanish-eater voters in Florida.
What are some reasons for the lack of protests against Trump’s immigration policy in South Florida?
Minimum protests can be attributed to the general adoption or support of Trump’s policies among many of the Latin American community, which prioritizes border security and legal immigration processes.