Sheree Robinson, a Black resident of Racine, Wisconsin, shared her excitement about being invited to ride in President Joe Biden’s motorcade during his visit to the state. She credited education funding in Biden’s American Rescue Plan for helping her earn a High School Equivalency Diploma. Robinson expressed strong support for Biden, believing he has her vote and needs the votes of others as well. Biden’s campaign has focused on outreach and organizing support within Black communities, with a significant investment in ad buys, offices, and voter engagement efforts in battleground states like Wisconsin.
The Black vote is a crucial element of Biden’s support, but there has been a slight decline in enthusiasm among Black voters, as shown by recent polls. Biden’s campaign recognizes the importance of maintaining and expanding Black voter turnout. Wisconsin is a critical battleground state where recent polls indicate a tight race between Biden and former President Donald Trump. Turnout in Milwaukee has seen a slight decrease, raising concerns about voter engagement and support for Biden among key demographics. Biden’s campaign has been engaging with Black voters through events like the one at the Dr. John Bryant Community Center in Racine to deepen organizing efforts.
During his visit to Racine, Biden engaged with Black voters and volunteers and emphasized the importance of their support in upcoming elections. Voters like Andrea Dyess shared personal stories of healthcare struggles and praised the Affordable Care Act. Concerns about key issues like healthcare, democracy, and international relations, such as the Israel-Gaza conflict, were raised among voters. The importance of voter turnout and engagement in securing Biden’s re-election was emphasized by voters like Janet Mitchell, who expressed optimism while acknowledging challenges.
While the Republican National Convention is set to be held in Milwaukee, the Trump campaign’s outreach efforts to Black voters remain unclear. In neighborhoods like Franklin Heights in Milwaukee, some apathetic voters feel that Biden has not delivered enough on key issues like the economy, education, and police reform. Organizations like “Black Leaders Organizing Communities” are working to educate and engage voters who feel disenchanted with the political process. Issues like education, police reform, and government accountability have influenced voter perceptions of Biden’s performance and the impact on their communities.
In the lead up to the election, concerns around voter apathy, disillusionment with politics, and the need for meaningful change have prompted engagement efforts among Black voters in Wisconsin. Despite some reservations and disappointments with the current administration, there remains a commitment to educating and mobilizing voters towards greater participation and empowerment. The intersection of race, economic concerns, and social issues plays a significant role in shaping voter attitudes and behaviors. Biden’s campaign acknowledges the importance of engaging with Black communities and addressing their concerns to secure their support and votes in the upcoming election.
