Noah Trexler
Research Mentor(s): Nicholas Valentino
Mentor Department: Political Science
Authors: Francy Luna Diaz, Noah Trexler, David Rincon
Session: Session 4 (1:00pm – 1:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 112
Abstract
In this study, we explore the rise in Latino support for Donald Trump from 2016 to 2020 and why it remained strong in 2024, a phenomenon that challenges preconceived notions due to Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric. Our research posits that understanding this trend requires examining the roles of transnationalism and social media use. Latinos who maintain cross-border cultural and political ties—transnational ties—often develop unique information environments that influence their political perceptions. These ties are typically sustained through social media, increasing exposure to group-specific misinformation. To test this theory, we utilize a mixed-methods approach. Our targeted population includes Latino voters in the U.S., with a focus on those with transnational connections. We administer a survey through YouGov, oversampling Latino participants to gather quantitative data on social media use, belief in misinformation, and political attitudes. This survey data is complemented by in-depth qualitative interviews, providing nuanced insights into how these voters’ experiences and connections abroad inform their political views. Additionally, we analyze content from social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook to assess the prevalence and impact of misinformation. This approach is supported by tools such as SPSS or R for analyzing quantitative data, and NVivo for qualitative data management. By integrating quantitative results with qualitative narratives, our research sheds light on how transnational experiences and media interactions shape Latino political behavior, contributing to a broader understanding crucial for policymakers aiming to enhance democratic engagement and counter misinformation. This interdisciplinary strategy reflects both the social science perspectives and the cultural narratives essential to grasp the complexities of Latino voter dynamics in contemporary U.S. politics.
