The upcoming US presidential election is shaping up to be a close race with Kamala Harris and Donald Trump vying for the support of Polish American voters in swing states. This demographic could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Harris strategy centers on highlighting the potential risks to Poland and Europe if Trump were to be elected. She recently challenged him to explain his position on Russiaʼs war in Ukraine expanding into countries like Poland. The Democrats argue that a Trump presidency would put Europe‚ starting with Poland at risk.
On the other hand Trump is appealing to conservative values and promising safety for Poland. He recently told attendees at a Polish American Congress event that “Poland will always be safe as long as Im president“ and that Russia wouldnʼt have invaded Ukraine under his leadership.
Macomb County Michigan‚ (north of Detroit) is seen as a key battleground. With about 15% of Michigans Polish population its considered a barometer for US elections. In the 2020 election Trump won Macomb by nearly 40‚000 votes but lost Michigan overall.
A 2020 survey revealed that Polish Americans tend to be conservative‚ religious‚ and pro-NATO. This voter profile seems to favor Trump‚ but their strong support for NATO could swing votes towards Harris.
The Polish American community has been politically active since World War I: lobbying for their ancestral homeland and later advocating for war refugees. Their votes have been crucial in past elections‚ helping to flip key states.
Today over 8.2 million people in the US claim Polish ancestry. Significant populations exist in swing states like Michigan Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – all of which have been won by small margins in recent years.
Both candidates are intensifying their outreach efforts. Harris referenced the threat from Russia during a debate while Trump has been praising Polish people and highlighting his past achievements related to Poland.
To win Polish American votes Harris needs to address the Biden administrations flaws in handling the Ukraine conflict and present a clear plan for lasting peace in Eastern Europe. She must convince voters that she will act differently and more decisively than the current administration
Trump on the other hand is focusing on his past record and appealing to conservative values. He claims that under his leadership Russia would not have invaded Ukraine and that he would provide more aid to Ukraine if elected
The outcome of this election could hinge on which candidate can effectively address the concerns of Polish American voters and present a compelling vision for US foreign policy in Eastern Europe