As the United States approaches a pivotal election, South Florida’s cities—home to vibrant Caribbean-American communities—are buzzing with political enthusiasm. In Lauderhill, a neighborhood affectionately dubbed “Jamaica Hill” due to its large Jamaican population, supporters have hit the streets, rallying behind candidates with Caribbean roots who are running for both local and national offices.
One of the most significant figures on the ballot is Kamala Harris, the U.S. Vice President, aiming to make history as the first female president. Harris, a Democrat with Jamaican heritage on her father’s side, is set to face off against former President Donald Trump on November 5.
Among the local candidates energizing the South Florida area are Jamaicans Denise Grant, seeking the mayoral seat of Lauderhill, and Mark A. Douglas, running for mayor in Sunrise. These campaigns are drawing attention to the Caribbean diaspora’s increasing role in American politics.
Attorney Marlon Hill, a key figure in RallyForKamala, a grassroots initiative supporting Harris, believes that the Caribbean-American community can make a meaningful impact in the election. Hill shared that RallyForKamala’s efforts focus on mobilizing first-time voters and Caribbean-American families, especially in battleground states like Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Texas.
“Our energy is on key demographics where Caribbean-Americans have a voice,” Hill explained. “In close states, even a small group can have a significant impact, and we’re optimistic that our base will be pivotal in this election.”
The stakes are high, as the U.S. election system relies on winning a majority of the Electoral College’s 270 votes rather than the national popular vote. In 2016, former President Trump lost the popular vote but secured the presidency through the Electoral College. This historical context underscores the importance of every state’s contribution.
Winston Barnes, a respected commissioner in the city of Miramar, another South Florida area with a strong Caribbean-American presence, is hopeful about Harris’s chances. He stresses the importance of engaging diverse communities to boost voter turnout. “South Florida’s diversity could be decisive,” he said. “If Caribbean-Americans, Haitians, Puerto Ricans, and other groups vote in their best interest, we could see real change.”
Beyond Harris’s bid, Lauderhill’s city commissioner race is also drawing attention, with broadcaster John “John T” Hodgson and Richard Campbell, both Jamaican-born, running for seats. Their campaigns add to the wave of Caribbean representation pushing for broader political participation and influence.
With just days until Election Day, South Florida’s Jamaican community is making itself heard—an inspiring show of unity and engagement in a historic election season.
