‘Black jobs’ label a point of contention amidst intense election season

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — The upcoming presidential election is shaping up to be a tight race, meaning every vote matters.

That has Republicans and Democrats looking for ways to connect with people from all demographics. And, some of those tactics are drawing criticism from the very people both parties hope to attract.

Recently while speaking about immigration and the economy, former President Donald Trump claimed that immigrants were taking American jobs from Black and Hispanic workers.

The comment was upsetting to some, including a local community activist who says that type of rhetoric is unacceptable.

“What is a ‘Black job’?” asked local community advocate Dion Green. “When these things are even spoken, the media will never allow that to even air on the news, so, you know, it’s 50% him talking and saying that but also the media exposing it to the world where they shouldn’t, they should not expose that because it’s really racist.”

Social media was torn. Many said they don’t like the language — they’ve never known there was a racial component to types of jobs. One woman said, all jobs are Black jobs.

President Biden weighed in on the discussion. “Trying to win a Black job is…it’s the vice president of the United States.”

Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy tried to make the GOP’s case Tuesday night at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

“We want for you what we want for every American,” said Ramaswamy. “Safe neighborhoods, clean streets, good jobs, a better life for your children, and a justice system that treats everyone equally, regardless of your skin color and regardless of your political beliefs.”

The debate over this issue is expected to continue as both Republicans and Democrats look to win the “Black vote” this November.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.