Fact Check: "The U.S. population includes over 60 million Hispanic or Latino individuals."
What We Know
As of July 1, 2023, the Hispanic population in the United States reached approximately 65.2 million individuals, making up about 19.5% of the total U.S. population, which is the largest racial or ethnic minority in the country (Hispanic Heritage Month: 2024). This figure represents a significant increase from previous years, with the Hispanic population accounting for just under 71% of the overall growth of the U.S. population between 2022 and 2023 (Differences in Growth Between the Hispanic and Non-...).
The U.S. Census Bureau's data indicates that the Hispanic population has been growing steadily, driven primarily by natural increases (more births than deaths) and international migration (Differences in Growth Between the Hispanic and Non-...). In 2020, the Census reported approximately 62.1 million Hispanics, which was about 18.9% of the total population at that time (Hispanic/Latino Americans from Wed, 01/25/2023 - 23:12).
Analysis
The claim that the U.S. population includes over 60 million Hispanic or Latino individuals is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. The most recent estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate that the Hispanic population has surpassed 65 million, confirming that the claim is accurate. The data is derived from official census counts and estimates, which are generally considered reliable due to the rigorous methodologies employed by the Census Bureau.
However, it's important to note that while the Hispanic population is growing, the rate of growth has slowed compared to previous decades. For instance, the annual growth rate was reported at 1.8% from 2022 to 2023, down from higher rates in earlier years (Differences in Growth Between the Hispanic and Non-...). This indicates that while the population is increasing, the dynamics of growth are changing.
The sources used in this analysis are credible, primarily coming from the U.S. Census Bureau and reputable research organizations. The Census Bureau is a government agency tasked with collecting and analyzing demographic data, making its information a reliable reference for population statistics.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the U.S. population includes over 60 million Hispanic or Latino individuals is accurate, as the most recent data confirms that the Hispanic population stands at approximately 65.2 million. This figure not only exceeds the 60 million mark but also highlights the significant role of Hispanic individuals in the demographic landscape of the United States.
