Picture this: Democrats long banked on Latino loyalty at the ballot box, but 2020 flipped the script. Trump pulled a higher share of Latino votes than in 2016, even with his hardline border stance. What's behind this head-scratching trend? Defectors by Paola Ramos dives deep, blending on-the-ground reporting with personal stories to unpack the rise of far-right sentiment in Latino communities.
Ramos crisscrosses the U.S., from Rio Grande Valley towns to New Mexico deserts and urban enclaves. She spotlights how feelings of political trauma—think broken promises from the left on immigration and jobs—mix with deep-rooted traditionalism and a sense of tribal identity. It's not just about policy; it's fear of fading into the cultural margins, much like some white working-class voters feel.
These aren't caricatures; Ramos lets them speak, revealing motivations that challenge easy stereotypes. Her NPR-bestowed book (a 2024 standout) feels personal, like chatting with a savvy friend who's seen it all.
This isn't dry analysis. Ramos connects dots on how Latinos, now a powerhouse electorate, could tip scales in swing states. Wondering about January 6 participants with Latino roots or culture-war foot soldiers? It's all here, with context on evangelical surges and identity clashes. Readers walk away with fresh eyes on U.S. politics—no more assuming monolithic voting blocs.
Grab the Kindle edition for instant access. Whether you're dissecting elections, tracing identity shifts, or just curious about overlooked voters, Defectors delivers sharp insights minus the spin. It's the kind of read that sparks dinner-table debates and reframes headlines you've skimmed.
