The state of Florida has also seen growth in its population of about 1.46 million; the Hispanic demographic had made up about 51 percent of that growth within 5 years, 2010-2015. “What difference does four years make? For Florida, in a presidential election year, the difference means surging population growth that could influence the outcome of the national contest” (Klas). As of today, “There are currently about 4.4 million registered Republicans and nearly 4.6 million Democrats. But the voters both campaigns want are the nearly 3 million independents who give this swing state its swing.” (Savidge).
According to the Miami Herald, factoring in Florida’s Hispanic population, “Florida is the biggest swing state in the country” (Klas). Not only Hispanics are represented through Florida however, “Contrary to the stereotype, Florida is no longer a wheezy haven of shuffleboard, blue rinse and early-bird specials (with a bit of Latin spice). Millennials now outnumber residents over age 65, and the sentiments of young voters could make the difference in this perennial swing state” (Barabak). Referring to Figure 1, in the American Progress, the chart displays overall …show more content…
This is because Florida has had many elections where the candidates wins and losses have come very close. “’In 2012, Obama just won Florida over Romney by just over .9%,’ said Susan MacManus, a distinguished professor at the University of South Florida. ‘This is a fiercely fought for state’” (Savidge). In fact, Florida was the only state that had such a close call during the 2012 election, “In 2012, Florida was the only state decided by less than 1%, with Barack Obama beating Mitt Romney 50.0% to 49.1%” (“Florida Presidential Election Voting History”). According to the Florida Division of Elections, in every presidential election since the year 2000, there has been a voter turnout of over 70 percent (“Voter Turnout”). This suggests that the trend of attendance, at the very least, will continue on. I also believe that from my observations that Florida will continue to grow and diversify, making it a hub for uncertainty regarding where it will swing in the coming elections. Therefore, I have faith that Florida will continue on its path as a competitive swing state for generations and elections to