Hispanic Business’s New Political Clout
The Hispanic vote does not necessarily elect a candidate, but it can determine an election, especially in some certain core states,” Barreto explained in a Latin Business Today article.
The Candidates’ Positions
On the key issues, the candidates hold differing views:
- Obama has halted deportations of Hispanic children who grew up in the U.S.
- Romney supports Arizona’s controversial anti-immigration policies.
- Obama has made strides to counter the recession, and the job picture has improved slowly. Obama argues that his policies create education and training opportunities that will provide a base of broad growth.
- Romney points to weak employment figures in August to make the case that Obama’s policies have not excited the business world, which offers the best chance for full recovery, he says.
- Obama charges that Romney would return to failed policies of deregulation, Wall Street economic manipulations, foreclosures and loss of retirement savings.
- Romney supports creating healthier environments for business to create new jobs and growth. The Republican candidate points to government intrusions in all aspects of American life. Although Romney supports social diversity, he feels government should leave these issues to popular opinion instead of trying to regulate them.
Unparalleled Influence
Hispanic voters and activists have gained unparalleled influence in both parties, and their votes could determine the results of a close election. Obama has failed to grow the economy quickly enough to satisfy the classic are you better off question, but the prospect of a Romney presidency introduces serious questions about his financial dealings, immigration policies and commitment to work for the lower and middle classes. Hispanic voters must decide whether to support expanded business opportunities for entrepreneurs, or stick with Democrats for better social integration and educational opportunities. The results should prove interesting for political analysts no matter how the vote goes.
