Mass Deportations and the Future of Latino Partisanship

Abstract

Objective The U.S. government continues to deport large numbers of undocumented Latino immigrants. We address the likely effects of these policies on Latino partisanship. Methods We use a survey experiment to test the effects of information about mass deportations on partisan evaluations among young second‐generation Latinos. Results Young U.S.‐born Latinos view the Democratic Party as less welcoming when informed that deportations have been higher under President Obama than under his predecessor. Because most young U.S.‐born Latinos are either weak partisans or political independents, there is wide scope for information effects among these potential voters. Conclusion Mass deportation policies have the potential to reshape the partisanship and politics of Latinos for years to come.