HOUSTON — With Texas seeing a surge in early voting and Election Day approaching on Nov. 3, members of Houston Community Media’s (HCoM) cohort are sharing what they’re hearing from the diverse communities they serve about the issues motivating voters.
From immigration enforcement and economic uncertainty to rising living costs, public safety and discrimination, the concerns reflect the different challenges facing Houston-area residents.
DJ Rosez says members of her community want an end to ICE raids and continued pathways to citizenship.
Sung Byun of K Compass reports that Korean small business owners are worried about economic instability and the potential loss of workers and customers amid fears surrounding immigration enforcement and deportation.
Jay Malhotra of Indo American News points to growing concerns about anti-Muslim and anti-Hindu bigotry, specifically citing political figure Bo French.
Ryan Tejero of One Philippines says immigration raids are also weighing heavily on the Filipino community, describing their traumatic impact and the loss of dignity experienced by those affected.
Meanwhile, Judd Huang of Texas Chinese Radio identifies inflation, rising health insurance costs, crime, public safety and education as major concerns motivating Chinese American voters.
Totally Randie asked members of the African American community, including college students at Texas Southern University. Among the concerns are affordability, women’s reproductive rights, and healthcare.
While the priorities vary, the feedback shows that communities are paying attention to the issues affecting their lives, and making their voices heard at the ballot box.