Cuban Americans Stand Firm for Trump Amid Immigration Worries

Hialeah, Florida, United States - In the vibrant heart of South Florida, the political landscape is ablaze with a mix of fervent support and simmering dissent, particularly among the Latino community. The 2024 election saw a remarkable turnout, especially among Cuban Americans, who overwhelmingly backed Donald Trump, with approximately 70% casting their ballots in favor of the former president. It’s a decision that some now grapple with, as concerns over his immigration policies loom large.

In Hialeah, a city known for its strong Cuban American presence, Trump’s support was palpable. Thanks in part to a rally there, he managed to become the first Republican president to win Miami-Dade County since 1988. Yet, the enthusiasm comes with reservations. Many voters here express trepidation over Trump’s immigration tactics—including aggressive deportations and a partial travel ban on Cuba—that have made life unpredictable for families and friends separated by borders.

Mixed Feelings about Immigration Policies

Reinerio de la Torre, a Cuban American electrician, voiced his conflicting feelings. After supporting Trump, he now finds it hard to reconcile his choice with the harsh realities of deportation policies he feels are unjust. „Hardworking individuals are being unfairly deported,“ he lamented, sharing his disagreement with the Cuba travel ban that complicates family connections. His sentiments are echoed by others in the community, sparking an increasing concern about the fate of recent Cuban arrivals.

Mirta Marino, a retired bank worker and another strong Trump supporter, maintains that the president’s tough stance stems from necessary policy decisions to protect the nation. On the other hand, business owner Rodrigo Torres acknowledges the deportation of non-criminals, stating he would rather support Trump than see Vice President Kamala Harris in office. The nuances of this political support highlight a community that’s weighing the scales of policy impact against personal and familial connections.

Looking Back and Forward

Since 2022, over half a million Cuban migrants have arrived in the U.S., yet many find themselves entangled in legal uncertainty due to recent changes in policy. Trump’s administration revoked legal statuses for migrants who entered via the Biden-era CBP One app and ended a parole program affecting 532,000 individuals—moves that have left many Cuban families in a state of limbo. The implications are particularly dire, as deportations of Cubans have been ongoing since 2017, further complicating family reunifications and long-term planning.

Despite the heavy focus on immigration, many in the community support Trump for reasons that extend beyond policy—some appreciate his tough approach to governance or his stance on U.S.-Cuba relations that favor a harder line. Moreover, even in Doral, a city embraced by Venezuelan nationals facing their own challenges, patrons at local eateries continue to express their backing for Trump amidst these pressing issues.

Democratic consultant Fernand Amandi notes that, strikingly, Trump voters in South Florida have not distanced themselves from their choices. Amidst rising concerns from the opposing party regarding immigration policies, Republican lawmakers are facing pressure yet remain largely silent on issues related to Trump. The balancing act performed by voters and politicians alike reflects a complex narrative, where loyalty and concern coexist side by side.

With the stakes so high and the landscape rapidly changing, the question remains: how will these perspectives shape the future of Florida’s political arena, and what impact will they have in upcoming electoral battles? There’s certainly more to unfold in this dynamic and often contentious chapter of American politics.