For many in the Black community, watching the news of Donald Trump’s presidential win brought a feeling that was hard to shake—a profound sense of disconnect. This was not only about feeling disconnected from a country that chose him; it also raised questions about the fragile concept of a people of color (POC) community. For years, POC has been used to lump together a diverse group of people who have little in common beyond existing outside the white majority. But as this election made clear, we’re not as unified as that label suggests.
The Breakdown of Voter Demographics
Exit polls from this election reveal the range of political preferences within communities often grouped under the POC label. White voters made up the majority at 71%, leaning toward Republicans, with 55% voting Republican and 43% Democratic. Black voters, who comprised 11% of the electorate, overwhelmingly supported the Democratic candidate, with 86% voting Democratic and only 12% Republican. Hispanic/Latino voters represented 12% of the vote, splitting 53% Democratic and 45% Republican. Asian voters made up 3% and leaned Democratic, with 56% voting Democratic and 38% Republican. Another 3% of voters identified as “Other,” showing a slight Republican preference at 53% to 43%.
This breakdown highlights the political diversity that exists within communities of color, challenging the idea of a unified POC voting bloc.
Voters made their voices heard on the results:
The exit poll breakdown shows how the term POC can hide important differences. For example, while Black women overwhelmingly voted against Trump, with 92% casting Democratic votes, the support from other groups was less unified.
Americans expressed their frustration:
Latino male voters split more evenly, with 54% voting Republican and 44% voting Democratic, reflecting a growing trend of conservative support in certain Hispanic/Latin communities, especially among Cuban-Americans in Florida.
High turnout among Latino male voters, particularly in Florida and Texas, underscored political differences that challenged the unity implied by the POC label. Similarly, parts of the Asian community leaned towards Trump, particularly among Vietnamese-Americans, who cited strong anti-communist sentiments as a reason for their support. This was jarring to many in the Black community, where 92% of Black women and 80% of Black men voted against Trump in hopes of fighting systemic injustices that target Black lives.
According to various sources, it’s clear why some Latino men supported Trump in the 2024 election. For many, the economic promises he makes as a businessman speak to their goals for stability and growth. His tough stance on immigration also appeals to those who see stricter policies as a way to ensure fairness. Beyond that, some Latino men connect with Trump’s values on masculinity and tradition. For those feeling overlooked by Democratic policies, Trump’s platform seems like the alternative they’re looking for.
This highlights just how complex the POC label really is—because at the end of the day, our communities don’t all see eye to eye on what matters most.
The Strain on POC Solidarity
This election exposes cracks in the idea of a unified POC community. While Black voters often support Democratic causes due to systemic injustices, other communities of color may not feel the same pressures or share the same priorities. Black women, especially, have turned out in record numbers for causes of justice, often doing the emotional and physical labor of advocating for equity.
Black women have consistently been champions for all people of color, especially during election seasons, when their dedication to civic engagement shines. Often referred to as the backbone of Democratic efforts, Black women turned out in record numbers, advocating for policies and candidates that aim to uplift marginalized communities. Their role went beyond casting votes; they organized, educated, and mobilized voters across communities, pushing for equity and justice for everyone. This commitment has made Black women a powerful force in shaping political landscapes and supporting change that benefits all communities of color.
Educated Black women chimed in:
The term POC often erases the unique histories and struggles of different communities. Not all people of color face the same fears, like worrying about police violence or feeling unsafe at voting stations in predominantly white areas. While solidarity is important, we also need to recognize that the Black experience in America is distinct from others—and that’s okay.
Reflecting on True Solidarity
This election serves as a reminder that solidarity among communities of color must recognize and respect these differences. While we may share certain struggles as POC, each community has its own history, values and priorities.
Genuine unity requires more than surface-level gestures; meaningful progress can only happen when efforts go beyond appearances. If America continues to rely on symbolic unity without addressing real issues, it risks placing an unfair burden on the Black community without creating lasting change.
As we look ahead, it may be time to move beyond the idea that unity among people of color requires uniformity. Recognizing the unique challenges each group faces allows for true solidarity, rooted in mutual respect and a commitment to supporting each other. Only then can we create a future where Black women and all communities of color are truly seen, heard and valued—not just for their voting influence, but for the richness of their individual identities.