In the city of Milwaukee, a sense of momentum was palpable among black conservatives who convened on the same day that President Biden had scheduled several black outreach events.
The gathering, although not officially part of the Republican National Convention (RNC) programming, was graced by the presence of Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC). The senator addressed an optimistic crowd at a Republican black community center located just a few blocks from the RNC.
Orland Owens, the chairman of the Milwaukee North Side GOP, expressed his optimism about the party's progress in engaging the black community. He told The Post, This time, like no time before, there is a good growth of opportunities here, especially with black men. Black men are definitely attracted to the GOP.
According to The New York Post, recent polls have indicated a potential shift in the political leanings of black voters. While support for Biden seems to be waning, the Republican party appears to be making gains. Pew Research data revealed that 77% of black voters lean toward Biden, while 18% lean toward former President Donald Trump. This is a notable shift from 2020 when Biden secured 92% of the black vote, and Trump received 8%.
Meanwhile, President Biden, 81, was in Nevada attending multiple events, including an interview with BETs Ed Gordon, remarks at the NAACP National Convention, and a summit with Rep. Horsford (D-Nev.) During his speech at the NAACP, Biden stated, Donald Trumps presidency was hell for black America.
However, the sentiment at the Milwaukee event suggested a different perspective. Erik Ngutse, a community engagement director with the party, noted, Especially in the black community, I think theres a lot more openness to talk with the Republicans and look at our ideas. He attributed this shift to what he termed as "Bidens complete incompetence."
The event also highlighted the diverse views within the black community. A black female Uber driver, who voted for Trump in 2020, told The Post that she remains undecided for the 2024 election. She described Trump as living the thug life, referencing the assassination attempt against him and his legal troubles.
Owens acknowledged that while Republicans are still far from winning a majority of black voters, the goal is to "move the needle." He believes that they have made significant strides in that direction. However, overcoming stereotypes remains a challenge. Sen. Scott, during the Black Outreach, Opportunity Zones event in Milwaukee, said, Frankly, the most conservative people Ive ever met are black grandmas. He posed the question, Can you overcome whatever stereotypes have been labeled on the conservative as it relates to communities of color?
Scott, who was once considered for Trumps vice presidency, also addressed the issue of race during his address at the RNC. He declared, America is not a racist country, and added, But if you were looking for racism today, youd find it in cities run by Democrats.
The conservative movement among black voters is not without its critics. Liberal commentator Joy Reid has been vocal in her criticism of black conservatives, including Scott. She suggested that minorities in the MAGA movement take the humiliation by sticking with the party.
The black conservatives at the Milwaukee event, however, believe that their momentum is fueled by issues-driven policy fights on immigration, education, and the economy. Ngutse noted that hes heard about immigration more than Ive ever seen it in the inner city.
Sharon Nancy, a volunteer who switched from Democrat to Republican about ten years ago, expressed her frustration with the lack of change.
She said, Things didnt make sense. We would always vote for the same people, the same party. Nothing would ever change.
Will Phillips, a 20-year-old from Milwaukee, argued that liberals tend to avoid discussing certain controversial topics around election time, such as the Defund the Police movement and the border crisis. He observed, Once they win the election, the cycle resets, [they start] talking about police again. They start talking about the border.
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