Why Republicans Struggle to Attract Poor Urban Blacks in the Same Way They Do with Poor Suburban Whites

The Role of Racism in Political Alliances

Not all Republicans are racist, but many are, and a significant number believe that racism is no longer a prevalent issue. This attitude makes it challenging for the Republican Party to appeal to both racist individuals and black voters simultaneously. Similar to the inability to hold a stance that is both pro-life and pro-choice, the contradiction in positions on racism is stark and difficult to reconcile.

Recent Trends in Political Alignment

Over the past six months, it has become increasingly apparent that urban blacks are shifting their allegiance to the Republican Party in record numbers, a phenomenon that is gaining momentum. Suburban whites, on the other hand, tend to buy into the rhetoric that Republicans have to offer, but the party has yet to craft a message that resonates equally with poor, urban black communities.

Historical Context and Legal Policies

Despite the GOP's historical claim of being the "party of Lincoln," they have become synonymous with voter suppression and racial discrimination. Over the past five decades, starting around 1970, Republicans have consistently supported policies that suppress minority, particularly black, voting. In contrast, the Democratic Party has worked to increase voting opportunities for minorities.

Impact of Partisan Gerrymandering

The misuse of redistricting, or gerrymandering, has played a significant role in political outcomes. According to the Center for American Progress, during the elections from 2012 to 2016, there were 59 seats per election affected by partisan gerrymandering, with 20 shifting in favor of Democrats and 39 in favor of Republicans. This indicates a net gain of 19 Republican seats per election, which is more than the number of seats in twelve U.S. states.

Discrimination and Public Perception

People are not blind to discrimination, and poor urban blacks have substantial evidence to support their claims. Despite some minority followers, the Republicans are unlikely to attract any more unless they change their approach.

Conclusion

The Republican Party's struggle to attract poor urban blacks reflects a deeper issue: the failure to address racism effectively. The party's historical support of discriminatory policies and voter suppression continues to hinder their ability to connect with this demographic. As such, it is crucial for the Republican Party to reconsider its stance and address the persistent issues of racism and discrimination if they hope to broaden their appeal.