As the 2024 presidential election heats up, a recent rally in North Philadelphia has sparked significant backlash among Puerto Ricans. During the event, comic Tony Hinchcliffe made a derogatory joke referring to Puerto Rico as an 'island of garbage.' This comment has drawn ire from local residents, who expressed that it disrespects their dignity and pride [08a238a4].
Ivonne Torres Miranda, a community leader, criticized the joke, emphasizing the need for more thoughtful speech, especially in a politically charged environment. In response to the controversy, the Trump campaign distanced itself from Hinchcliffe's remarks, stating that they do not reflect the campaign's views [08a238a4].
Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign seized on the incident, suggesting it underscores Trump's divisive rhetoric. Harris has been actively campaigning in Pennsylvania, particularly in areas with significant Latino populations, promising economic development for Puerto Rico [08a238a4].
The incident has also galvanized support for Harris among Puerto Rican celebrities, with endorsements from figures like Bad Bunny and Jennifer Lopez, further energizing her campaign in a state where approximately 600,000 eligible Latino voters reside, over 470,000 of whom are Puerto Ricans [08a238a4].
As Trump prepares to campaign in Allentown, where around 33,000 residents identify as Puerto Rican, the impact of Hinchcliffe's joke on voter sentiment remains uncertain. However, many locals believe it will not be forgotten, with even some Trump supporters calling for more respectful dialogue [08a238a4].
This controversy adds another layer to the already complex political landscape as both candidates navigate their narratives leading up to the election, particularly in swing states like Pennsylvania, where the Latino vote could play a crucial role [6c18c893][2240a8f1].