Mike Catalini, Associated Press
ALLENTOWN, Pa. (AP) — Victor Martinez, host of a Spanish-language radio station, asked listeners to share one positive thing about President Donald Trump. Among the responses was a mention of a $5,000 payout promised by Trump if Republicans maintain control of Congress, which Martinez found amusing enough to play a laugh track. A truck driver noted that high diesel prices might lead to an unexpected vacation due to the inability to afford fuel.
Martinez has hosted his show for nearly a decade in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, where the Latino population has increased from 20% to nearly 25%. He added a political segment to his morning show at the end of Trump's first term, during which listeners expressed concerns about the January 6 attack on the Capitol, inflation, and President Joe Biden's age.
As Trump's second term progresses, Martinez reports that listeners are frustrated with rising prices for fuel and groceries, which could affect Republican support in the upcoming midterm elections. "It's the economy, stupid. That's what it is. I mean, things have gotten so bad," he stated. "People didn't think Biden did a good job. Everything was expensive and now it's worse."
Martinez broadcasts from a studio in Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District, where incumbent Ryan Mackenzie faces Democratic challenger Bob Brooks, a retired firefighter and union official. Both candidates are actively engaging with Latino voters, who make up a significant portion of the district's electorate.
Brooks, who refers to himself as "Bombero Bob," has visited local businesses to connect with the community. Mackenzie has also emphasized his support from Latino voters and opened a district office staffed with Spanish speakers.
Martinez, a critic of Trump, is supporting Brooks this election cycle but has historical ties to the Republican Party, having previously backed candidates like Marco Rubio and Jeb Bush. He expressed concern over Biden's age and the need for political engagement among frustrated voters, stating, "I understand that feeling of frustration, but not doing nothing is not the answer."
Republicans are aware of the importance of Martinez's show for reaching Latino voters and are purchasing advertising on it. Jackie Rivera, vice chair of Lehigh County Republicans, emphasized the need to maintain support from Latino voters by addressing issues important to them, such as family values.
Matt Tuerk, Allentown's Democratic mayor, noted that the current election feels similar to the previous one, with voters expressing dissatisfaction over rising costs. Claudia Parrales-DeLeon, a Democratic listener, remarked that Martinez's show helps keep people informed amid economic challenges.
Alberto Pena, who has operated a Dominican restaurant in Allentown for nearly two decades, expressed disappointment with the current economic situation, stating, "This is not what we expected. The economy is completely on the ground." He is leaning toward supporting Brooks in the upcoming election.