David’s Western Wear and Kory’s Bridal have been popular stores in Nogales, near the US-Mexico border, for many years. Before the Covid-19 border lockdown, David Moore estimates that about 99% of his customers were from Mexico, but that number has decreased to about 70% now due to the difficulty of crossing the border. Border crossing has become more challenging, with long wait times, impacting businesses in the area, including Kory’s Bridal, which has seen a decrease in business.
The issue of immigration and the border is personal for many in Nogales, including Moore and Kory, who have favorite restaurants in Mexico and depend on Mexican shoppers to support their businesses. Despite acknowledging that the border is in crisis and that more security is needed, they believe that the political rhetoric surrounding immigration is exaggerated and alarmist. They advocate for more nuanced and focused discussions on the issue, rather than relying on slogans.
Moore, a registered Republican, is planning to vote for Biden, citing Trump’s divisive language about the border and immigrants as offensive and detrimental to his business. He disagrees with the harsh terms used by Trump and his allies when discussing the border, as it creates fear among potential customers who worry about safety. Both Moore and Kory reject the portrayal of the border as a “war zone” and emphasize that their community is not dangerous.
Faith Ramon, who used to smuggle migrants but got caught and has since turned her life around, is now passionate about voting and plans to cast her first vote for Biden in the upcoming election. She is particularly concerned about water rights and views Trump’s border policies as destructive. Ramon hopes to encourage other tribal members to vote, despite some elders who see voting as futile due to politicians not being held accountable for their promises.
In a battleground state like Arizona, voters like Melissa Cordero, a former Trump supporter, have changed their views due to personal experiences and evolving beliefs. Reproductive rights and concerns about Biden’s stance on the Palestine issue are factors that influence her decision. Cordero is considering third-party options but is hesitant due to the possibility of impacting the outcome in favor of Trump. Ray Flores, a restaurant owner in Tucson, has grievances with the current immigration system, viewing it as unfair and burdensome for employers like himself.
Overall, the voters in Nogales and Tucson are grappling with complex issues surrounding immigration, border security, and personal experiences that shape their political beliefs. As a key battleground state, Arizona will play a critical role in the upcoming election, with voters like Cordero and Flores expressing their concerns about the current political landscape and seeking candidates with more moderate perspectives. Their stories highlight the diversity of opinions and experiences within the state, mirroring the broader political climate in the country.
