Mobilization and Maria: Demographic Change in Florida and the Future of American Politics

Before the 2018 midterm elections, much attention was placed on Florida’s growing Puerto Rican population. The crucial swing state had become the main destination for migrants fleeing the ongoing economic crisis and the devastating impact of Hurricane Maria. The razor thin election results subsequently highlighted two key points: Every vote matters to obtain electoral victory and voter registration is not indicative of voter turnout. Though demographic shifts can impact the future of American politics, demography is not 'destiny' if those members of the electorate are not incorporated into the political system. The dual identity of the Puerto Rican community endows a unique political salience, garnering the attention of political parties and community organizations. Qualitative data was gathered in the form of semi-structed interviews of local community organizations, government officials, and Puerto Rican migrants on the topics of political behavior, voter mobilization, and the Puerto Rican community in Central Florida. This paper argues that concerted voter mobilization efforts are necessary to incorporate individuals lacking the resources to participate on their own. Successful mobilization will increase levels of voter turnout, resulting in electoral victories at the ballot box.