World
October 25, 2024 06:00
detroit - A significant number of African American voters show no interest in Kamala Harris, raising concerns of 'sexism'. What is the reason behind this controversy? The Telegraaf investigates the mood in Detroit.
"Democrats hold the Black community hostage," Pastor Lorenzo Sewell states bluntly. He criticizes the pressure exerted on individuals and the attempt to keep them in social obscurity if they choose to support the Republican party. He describes it as political exploitation.
Pastor Sewell, a prominent figure in the African American community in Detroit and beyond, is known for his outspoken nature. Raised in a rough neighborhood, he has had a tumultuous past involving involvement in crime before finding his path as a pastor.
He accuses the Democrats of treating Black voters as children and employing identity politics to keep them in their political corner. He urges the party to set the Black population free, drawing parallels to biblical stories.
A significant minority of African Americans, typically a Democratic stronghold in presidential elections, are having doubts this time around. Concerns about the economy, cost of living, job security, and perceived threats from migrants are affecting the support for Harris and potentially benefiting Donald Trump.
The Republican share of Black votes increased from 7% in 2016 to 12% in 2020, and the latest polls show a historic 14% support for Trump among Black voters. Younger Black men, in particular, are turning away from Harris, with only 41% backing her compared to Obama's 81% support in 2012.
Former President Barack Obama has been brought in to address this electoral challenge, although his recent remarks labeling Black men as sexist for not supporting Harris received criticism for being divisive and tone-deaf.
In Michigan, Harris is trailing Trump by a narrow margin, with polls indicating a difference of 0.3%, roughly equivalent to eleven thousand voters. Detroit, with a significant Black population, is crucial in this swing state, with both candidates actively campaigning there.
Trump's controversial remarks suggesting that a Harris victory would lead the country to resemble Detroit were met with disapproval. Detroit, symbolizing American decline, has long struggled with economic challenges and urban decay.
The visible signs of distress in Detroit's neighborhoods, plagued by poverty and crime, contribute to the skepticism towards Harris. The city's historical Democratic allegiance has not translated into tangible improvements for its residents.