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Immigrants in US both hopeful and wary of Biden

Washington (AFP) - Immigrants in the US await Joe Biden's presidency with a mix of hope and wariness -- he spells relief after four years of tough restrictions under Donald Trump, but he served as vice president under Barack Obama, whom many referred to as "the deporter in chief." On the surface, Biden is making the right noises.  Gabriela Hernandez, a 22-year-old who came to the US from El Salvador at age five with her mother, says she is "not too big of a fan" of the next president -- but she is "pretty optimistic that this administration is going to try to work with us." For a start, Biden ...

'Kamala represents the future': US women, minorities celebrate vice president-elect

New York (AFP) - The first female vice president, and a symbol of American diversity -- Kamala Harris has electrified many women and minority voters on the US left, who view her as the future more than Joe Biden.As celebrations rolled on in major cities, excitement for some has shifted from Biden's election victory to his running mate."She's a wonderful role model for young girls," said Theodora Egbuchulam, a New York attorney. The 55-year-old Black woman had gone to Times Square to celebrate the news."Kamala represents the future, and it makes me so proud that after everything that was done a...

Astronaut on mission to win second Arizona Senate seat for Democrats

Phoenix (AFP) - From the International Space Station to Congress? Astronaut Mark Kelly is leading an unlikely political "mission" to win a second Senate seat for the Democrats in the traditionally conservative state of Arizona.Until recently, few would have thought it possible for the Democratic Party to make major inroads in this southwestern state with a long Republican tradition.But thanks to changing demographics and growing discontent with President Donald Trump among the state's moderate conservatives, Kelly believes he can win the upper-house seat while helping deliver Arizona's elector...

Young Americans can swing the election... if they vote

New York (AFP) - Most under 30s don't vote in the United States. This year however, in a contest between two septuagenarians, experts predict a record number of younger Americans will cast ballots -- a development that could tip the result.With universities closed and millions at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, innovative virtual campaigns are using social media influencers, TikTok dances, video games and Zoom talks, as well as text messages and calls, to mobilize young voters.Singers Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish and Cardi B are also encouraging them to have their say.Eighte...