Florida Senate race: Democrats target Latino voters via WhatsApp

Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, a former U.S. House Democrat, is challenging Florida Republican Senator Rick Scott in a tight Senate race. To engage Spanish-speaking voters, she has initiated a campaign on WhatsApp, a platform popular among Latino communities. This effort aims to combat misinformation and provide accurate information directly to voters, as many in this demographic have been targets of disinformation campaigns in the past. Mucarsel-Powell is the first Latina candidate for U.S. Senate in Florida, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to Latino voters who have historically participated less in elections. The campaign includes two WhatsApp channels, one in English and one in Spanish, allowing for direct communication with voters. This initiative aligns with a broader strategy to mobilize Latino voters, which includes numerous bilingual campaign events and advertisements. The use of WhatsApp is particularly strategic, as a Pew Research report indicates that 46% of Hispanic Americans utilize the app, compared to lower usage rates among other racial groups. Mucarsel-Powell's campaign is part of a larger Democratic effort to counteract Republican gains in Florida, especially in light of former President Trump's influence on GOP turnout. The campaign also coincides with Vice President Kamala Harris's bilingual outreach efforts, marking a significant trend in political communication. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need to address misinformation and engage Latino voters effectively. By leveraging popular communication tools, Mucarsel-Powell hopes to foster a more informed electorate and increase participation among Latino communities in the upcoming election.