Phillip Barker, a 76-year-old organic farmer from Oxford, North Carolina, has witnessed significant changes throughout his life, including shifting demographics and climate instability. Despite these challenges, his dedication to voting remains unwavering. “My mother always told me, ‘you gonna vote,’” Barker recalls. He emphasizes the importance of exercising the vote, stating, “I don’t miss a vote.”
Barker’s voice is crucial in North Carolina, a key swing state for the upcoming presidential election. Polls indicate a tight race, with both parties actively courting voters like him. Democrats highlight proposals aimed at benefiting Black men, while Republicans utilize Black lawmakers to engage with this demographic. However, Barker is adamant that he does not support candidates associated with felonies, declaring, “Who wants felonies? Black people don’t want them!”
As a Black farmer, Barker has faced discrimination, particularly during his attempts to secure government loans. He candidly describes the experience of entering an office where he feels discriminated against and how that undermines his enthusiasm.
Years of litigation have led Congress to allocate over $2 billion in compensation for farmers mistreated by the USDA. While Barker appreciates this step, he laments the loss of those who did not benefit from the support in time.
Barker faulted former President Trump for favoring large agricultural interests, illustrating his frustration with the systemic inequities faced by small farmers like himself. “I don’t know what farmers should vote for him. He didn’t take care of any farmers,” he stated.
While traditionally a Democrat, Barker prioritizes the candidate over party affiliation. He expressed his disapproval of Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson, whose controversial history has raised concerns. On the other hand, Barker supports Vice President Harris, identifying her qualifications as essential for potentially electing the country’s first Black female president.
In 2020, Black men accounted for approximately 9% of North Carolina’s voter turnout, predominantly supporting Joe Biden. However, recent polls indicate a decline in Democratic support among younger Black voters, largely attributed to economic concerns.
Ian Burris, owner of a Raleigh-based restaurant, articulates his own challenges amidst rising operational costs, indicating that the price of chicken wings has surged from approximately $60 to $130. Burris, who has grown his business over nine years, acknowledges that while financial concerns are looming, the racial tensions during the Trump administration remain a significant focus for him.
Burris, 28, contrasts personal tax burdens with feelings of racial discomfort, citing a desire for sensible leadership during politically charged times. He perceives a lack of seriousness in Trump’s political persona, favoring Harris’s more substantial professional background.
If young Black voters resonate with Burris’s sentiments, it could have repercussions for the Republican Party in the upcoming election. Burris also notes the successful operations of certain Republican-led cities, hinting at a discerning outlook on governance irrespective of political affiliation.
Although Burris appreciates certain Republican achievements, he is still evaluating Harris’s policy positions before deciding on his vote.
