Inwood residents weigh economy, reproductive rights as key election issues

Inwood residents are prioritizing economic concerns and reproductive rights as they prepare to head to the polls in the upcoming election, reflecting a diverse range of opinions and passionate discussions within the community.

This bustling intersection of West 207th Street and Broadway reflects the area’s diverse character, prominently featuring the Latin influences of its Dominican residents.

Among the local businesses is Dichter Pharmacy, a nostalgic establishment known for its old-fashioned soda fountain. Owner Manny Ramirez, who has deep roots in the community, often finds himself at the center of political discussions among patrons. “People are very passionate. We have people on the left, people on the right, and it’s a good mix here,” Ramirez shared, emphasizing the neighborhood’s varied political landscape.

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With two young daughters, Ramirez is particularly concerned about reproductive rights. “I would like my daughters to choose what’s right for them and their bodies, and to be able to have all the rights that men have, and to flourish and thrive in this country,” he stated, highlighting a sentiment shared by many voters in the area.

Regular customer Liz Ritter, en route to support Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, echoed the importance of reproductive justice among other issues. “Democrats, sanity, climate change, employment, equal access to the ballot, reproductive justice, health care,” she listed as her key concerns, illustrating a growing enthusiasm for progressive policies.

Conversely, local resident Yeny Pichardo expressed her support for former President Donald Trump, praising his decisive leadership style. “For me, Donald Trump is the best because he is the man; he does what he wants to do. The other presidents, they sit down, they don’t do anything, but Donald Trump does something right away,” Pichardo asserted, highlighting a stark divide in voter sentiment.

Single mother Christine Ventura is also looking for change but emphasizes economic issues. “You know, cut down on inflation, the rent increase, job opportunities, minimum wage needs to go up a little bit more,” she urged, reflecting concerns over rising living costs.

Lifelong Inwood resident Babette Crain expressed anxiety about a range of issues, particularly reproductive rights and immigration. “The abortion situation in the states makes me nervous because we all know a woman has a right to her own body. Immigration bothers me a little bit, but then again, my parents were immigrants when they came over here,” Crain shared, capturing the complex interplay of personal and political issues shaping the community’s electoral decisions.

As election day approaches, Inwood voters are poised to make their voices heard, driven by a mix of local concerns and national debates that resonate deeply within this dynamic neighborhood.