In the aftermath of the 2024 election, Democrats are confronting a possible existential threat: The erosion of support among important demographic groups, particularly Latinos. 

An example close to home helps illustrate the shift: In the 14th Legislative District, in the Yakima Valley, a newly redrawn map was supposed to strengthen Latino representation in the state House and Senate.

Republicans even challenged the map in court, alleging it was built to win seats for Democrats.

But as the dust settles, Republicans are poised to sweep the 14th District, new map and all. 

So what’s happening here, and what’s driving changes in Latino voting patterns?

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Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.

Guests:

• Sophia Jordán Wallace is a political science professor at the University of Washington. She specializes in Latino politics and politics of race and ethnicity, among other things

Relevant Links:

• The role of the Latino vote in the 2024 election - NPR

• In a purple Pacific Northwest pocket three Latina candidates face tough House races - NPR

• Late hardball from the WSRP - Washington Observer

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