Polish American voters in Pennsylvania are receiving special attention from both the Harris and Trump campaigns as the election nears. Vice President Kamala Harris called out Trump’s relationship with Russia during a debate, prompting her campaign to launch outreach efforts to Polish Americans, who make up 5% of the state’s population. Trump planned to visit a Catholic shrine with the Polish President, but the visit was canceled due to flooding in Poland. Both campaigns believe Polish American voters could be crucial in winning the battleground state, where polls show Harris and Trump in a tight race.
Democratic former congressman Tom Malinowski, who is of Polish descent, emphasized the importance of this voting bloc, noting that even a small swing in votes could make a difference. While Polish Americans in Pennsylvania are somewhat more conservative than in other states, a majority supported Biden in 2020. Harris’s focus on Polish independence and defense of Ukraine resonates with Polish American voters, who see Putin as a threat.
Polish immigrants have a long history in the U.S., with many settling in places like Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Despite not speaking Polish or visiting Poland, they maintain cultural ties and are receptive to messages about Polish heritage and concerns. The Harris campaign has released ads targeting this community, aiming to connect with their shared history and values. As both campaigns vie for Polish American votes, it is clear that this demographic is being recognized as influential in the upcoming election.
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