Buttigieg on Black Votes
M
If he wants to be President in 2028, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has urgent work to do: he must change the narrative following the recent Emerson Poll showing he holds zero support among Black voters—a critical demographic he needs to gain traction on the road to the White House.
One of Buttigieg’s key challenges lies in his communication style. His technocratic, policy-heavy messaging—often framed in neutral, academic language—lacks the emotional resonance needed to connect with Black communities on a deeper level. To change that, he must simplify his message and speak more directly to the lived experiences, concerns, and aspirations of Black Americans.
Gaining the endorsement of President Joe Biden could also be a turning point. Throughout his career, Biden has built strong relationships and trust within the Black community, a coalition that helped secure his presidency in 2020. An endorsement from Biden could lend Buttigieg both credibility and goodwill among skeptical voters.
But endorsements alone won’t be enough. Buttigieg needs to actively engage and listen. That means organizing closed-door listening sessions with local activists, clergy, educators, and entrepreneurs—especially in key battleground states like Michigan, South Carolina, and Georgia. These are not just symbolic visits; they must be genuine efforts to understand what Black communities need, want, and expect from the next president.
Equally important is highlighting his tangible wins. Many Black voters remain unaware that infrastructure dollars under Buttigieg’s leadership have funded critical projects—replacing lead pipes in Flint, restoring public transit in underserved neighborhoods, and removing highways that historically split Black communities. He needs a stronger storytelling strategy, featuring local Black voices who can speak firsthand about how these changes have improved their quality of life.
Addressing his past is also non-negotiable. Issues with Black residents during his time as mayor of South Bend continue to shadow his national profile. He must confront those concerns head-on with honesty and accountability, demonstrating how he’s grown and what lessons he’s carried forward.
Hiring more Black strategists and advisors will also refine his campaign optics and ensure that Black voters aren’t an afterthought but a central part of his path forward. Representation within his team will send a powerful message about his priorities and values.
Finally, he must champion the core issues that matter: education, economic opportunity, and voting rights. These are pillars that deeply resonate with Black voters and could become the backbone of his outreach strategy.
Black voters are not a monolith—but they are politically engaged, discerning, and deeply aware of who shows up for them. They pay attention to consistency, authenticity, and proximity. While Buttigieg currently lacks deep-rooted support, his national exposure through the Infrastructure Bill gives him a foundation. The real question is whether he can turn that foundation into lasting trust.
