Republican political consultant Mike Madrid joins host Eloy Ortiz-Oakley to examine the seismic shifts occurring in American democracy through the unique lens of Latino voter behavior. As co-founder of the Lincoln Project and author of "The Latino Century," Madrid brings data-driven insights that challenge conventional wisdom about minority voting patterns. The conversation delves deep into how Latino voters—now America's largest minority voting bloc—are transforming the political landscape. Madrid reveals compelling evidence that Latinos aren't becoming more conservative but more populist, rejecting both major parties at unprecedented rates. "The Republican Party is winning Latino votes despite their best efforts, not because of them," Madrid explains, detailing how economic concerns consistently outweigh identity politics for this diverse demographic. His analysis of multi-generational shifts within Latino communities offers a fascinating window into America's changing electorate. The discussion takes a particularly thought-provoking turn when examining higher education's precarious position in today's populist moment. Madrid argues that colleges and universities have become deeply vulnerable by institutionalizing ideological frameworks without demonstrating clear economic returns. "The cash-on-cash return on investment of higher education in the digital age isn't really bearing out," he notes, explaining how the college degree has become America's most significant political dividing line—more so than income or geography. Madrid's insights offer essential guidance for higher education leaders navigating these turbulent times. He challenges institutions to strip down to fundamentals and rebuild for a digital age where information flows horizontally rather than through traditional hierarchies. For anyone seeking to understand the forces reshaping American democracy and higher education's place within it, this episode provides illuminating perspectives that transcend conventional political categories.
https://www.amazon.com/Latino-Century-Americas-Transforming-Democracy/dp/1668015269
eloy@4leggedmedia.com
www.4leggedmedia.com
