Trump seeks to moderate his speech before Latino voters, but his evasions raise doubts.

The recent appearance of Donald Trump at a forum with Latino voters in Doral, Florida, has sparked various reactions in an electorate that has traditionally been polarized regarding his figure. During the event, the former president sought to present himself as a more moderate candidate, especially in comparison to the incendiary rhetoric that has characterized his campaign. However, his avoidance of critical topics such as the promised "largest deportation in history" has left many wondering how genuine this change in his discourse is.

Trump has been a fervent critic of immigration, often accusing migrants of threatening the integrity of the United States. His comments have included racist claims and misinformation, such as those related to the Haitian community. However, at the forum, he presented himself with an approach that emphasized the need for a secure border and a legal immigration system, sidelining the promises of mass deportations that have been a cornerstone of his campaign.

One of the most significant interventions at the event came from Jorge Velázquez, a farmer who depends on undocumented labor. His question about who would do agricultural work if Trump's deportation plan were implemented reflects the concerns of many in the community about the economic repercussions of his policies. Trump's response, which emphasized his support for farmers, did not address the worries about the lack of workers in a sector crucial to the U.S. economy.

Despite his anti-immigrant rhetoric, Trump has maintained significant support among Latino voters, especially among men. This contrasts with the general trend of support toward Democratic figures like Kamala Harris, who has also sought to appeal to this group. The number of undecided voters among Latinos, which hovers around 25%, has led both sides to strive to win their favor in this final stretch of the campaign.

However, the former president avoided answering questions about immigration reform, a topic of vital importance to many Latino voters. Guadalupe Ramírez, whose family background involves a migration story, sought clarity on Trump's proposals in this area, only to receive a vague response focused on border security. This has left many wondering if Trump is truly willing to address the issues affecting Latino communities.

One of the most tense interactions at the forum occurred when a voter from Arizona questioned Trump's claim about Haitians, which has been debunked with evidence. Trump's response, which downplayed the issue, hinted at a pattern of evasion that could alienate voters seeking clear answers to real problems. The moderation of his stance did not extend to how he refers to past elections and the Capitol riot, where he continued to defend his narrative.

Ramiro González, a voter who identified as a Republican, seized the opportunity to remind Trump of the failures of his administration. His criticism of the pandemic management and the lack of support received presents Trump with a challenge in front of a sector that seeks strong and effective leadership. The former president's serious response to these accusations suggests that, despite his attempt at moderation, he is unwilling to distance himself from his legacy.

The event's moderator, Enrique Acevedo, received criticism for not delving deeper into Trump's controversial claims, highlighting the media's responsibility in clarifying the information presented. The lack of fact-checking in such a crucial forum underscores the need for rigorous journalism, especially since Latinos are one of the groups most affected by misinformation.

Overall, the event showcased a Trump trying to adapt to a changing electoral environment, but at the same time appearing stuck in a narrative that has generated deep divisions. By presenting himself as a candidate seeking security and legality, his evasions and distortions may erode voter trust, especially among those seeking proportionally responsible leadership.

As elections approach, Trump's ability to maintain his support among Latino voters will depend on his skill in balancing his rhetoric with concrete actions and clear answers. The Latino community, with its diversity of opinions and experiences, will continue to be a determining factor in the course of this electoral contest, and both candidates will face the challenge of authentically connecting with an electorate that demands more than empty promises.