Phillip
Phillip, a Cuban American field engineer in Albuquerque, describes his politics as shaped by economic strain, racial vulnerability, and growing distrust of both parties. After voting for Biden in 2020, he initially supported Trump’s border enforcement but grew alarmed by what he sees as indiscriminate targeting of Latino communities, raising fears of profiling and family separation. Rising prices and business closures have deepened his frustration with Democrats’ lack of a clear economic plan, while Republicans’ focus on spending discipline resonates more. Now identifying as Independent, Phillip wants practical solutions, economic relief, and leadership that addresses immigration without stripping people of dignity.
Main Interview
Phillip expresses deep concern about the human and racial impacts of immigration enforcement, particularly racial profiling in sanctuary states. While supportive of border security and legal enforcement, he criticizes indiscriminate deportations affecting brown and Hispanic communities. He emphasizes the economic strain on families, noting rising prices, financial insecurity, and the effects of government inaction. Phillip’s political alignment is pragmatic and fluid: he relates to conservative values like fiscal responsibility but identifies gaps in Republican responsiveness, leading him toward an Independent stance. He critiques Democrats for occasionally being out of touch and lacking strategic coordination, even when policies are intended to help vulnerable populations.
Our initial interviews were conducted in participant’s homes, and lasted approximately 3 hours. The follow up interviews were conducted remotely via Zoom, and lasted around 30 minutes. The following are shortened clips from these interviews.
October 2025
Phillip continues this pragmatic lens, focusing on the material effects of government dysfunction, such as shutdowns affecting healthcare, unemployment, and family finances. He balances criticism across parties, seeing both as responsible for gridlock, but stresses the need for actionable solutions that protect ordinary people. His political evaluation prioritizes practical outcomes over party loyalty, with concern for the well-being of families and communities at the forefront.
November 2025
Phillip covers the recent 2025 elections, including the news of Latinos abandoning the GOP. He also talks extensively about Trump’s leadership in the past 10 months and his disappointment at Trump’s “lies and selfishness,” saying he is running the White House as if it was his former show, the Apprentice.
December 2025
Phillip talks about the bombing of Venezuelan boats by the Trump Administration, calling him a dictator over his actions. He also delves into affordability and rising costs, expressing his frustration at Trump for his role in higher prices. He then talks about his decision to vote in the 2026 midterm election, indicating he is considering voting for Democrats. Lastly, he brings up Kilmar Ábrego GarcÍa and his deportation to El Salvador, saying he’s glad he’s free.
Meet the Cohort
