With nine days remaining until Election Day, Puerto Rico has been in the spotlight due to the efforts of both campaigns. Vice President Kamala Harris recently unveiled a plan to assist the island, which resonated with rapper and singer Bad Bunny, who endorsed her in light of her promises to create a Puerto Rican task force, create jobs, and ensure disaster recovery funds are efficiently used. Harris also criticized former President Donald Trump for his response to Hurricane Maria in 2017, where he was accused of abandoning the island and offering inadequate aid, including throwing paper towels at survivors. Bad Bunny’s endorsement carries weight due to his global popularity and the importance of reaching out to Latino voters.
On a different note, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made offensive comments about Puerto Rico during a set at a rally for Trump, referring to the island as “a floating island of garbage.” These remarks, along with other insults targeting Black people and Latinos, were met with backlash from celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Ariana DeBose, and Ricky Martin. Harris’ plan for the island gained support from politicians and activists, including Gov. Tim Walz and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who urged Puerto Ricans to vote in the upcoming election, especially in crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania where Latino voters play a significant role.
With the presidential election approaching, both campaigns are actively trying to woo Puerto Rican voters in key areas like Pennsylvania. Harris made a direct appeal to Latino voters while visiting a Puerto Rican restaurant in Philadelphia, emphasizing her commitment to addressing the needs of the community both on the island and on the mainland. The importance of Latino voters, particularly those of Puerto Rican descent, cannot be overstated in states like Pennsylvania, where slim margins have determined past election outcomes. Trump is also expected to campaign in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where a majority of the population is of Puerto Rican descent, highlighting the significance of this demographic in the upcoming election.
The controversy sparked by Hinchcliffe’s comments prompted denunciations from both Republicans and Democrats, with many calling his remarks racist and inappropriate. Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, a Trump ally, emphasized the need to stand in solidarity with Puerto Ricans and condemned the offensive jokes made at the rally. Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González-Colón, a Republican running for governor, labeled the comments as despicable and unacceptable, reflecting a united front from political leaders in defense of the island and its people. The incident highlighted the need for greater sensitivity and respect when discussing issues related to Puerto Rico and its citizens.
The contentious nature of the election campaign and increasing focus on reaching out to Puerto Rican voters underscores the significance of this demographic in influencing political outcomes. The endorsements from high-profile figures like Bad Bunny and the condemnation of offensive remarks by comedians and public figures demonstrate the power of influential voices in shaping public opinion and political discourse. As Election Day draws closer, the efforts of both campaigns to engage with and address the needs of Puerto Rican voters will continue to play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the presidential election and shaping future policies towards the island. The heightened attention on Puerto Rico serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, respect, and advocacy for marginalized communities in the political landscape.
