Our time is now: Latino voters ready to define our nation’s future

With the presidential election less than 50 days away, now is the time for Latinos to make our voices heard in a decision that’ll define the next four years of American leadership. This election is one of the most critical races our nation has seen, with the Hispanic electorate set to become a defining factor in its outcome. 

This year, one in five Latinos will be voting in their first presidential race. 37% of our electorate is new since the 2016 election. And an impressive majority of Latinos (61%) are being proactive and plan to vote early or by mail in this crucial race. 

But while Latino voters are enthusiastic to be part of the democratic process, outreach from either major party hasn’t matched that passion. Despite Election Day creeping up, only 23% of Latino voters say they have heard from Democrats and even fewer (16%) have heard from Republicans. 

What each party needs is a wake-up call about the Hispanic voting bloc and its passion for civic duty. 

Our President and CEO Janet Murguía has long touted UnidosUS’s prolonged efforts in registering Latino voters, but what really inspires faith in the Hispanic electorate are the Latinos who defied the odds and proudly made the United States their home. 

Officer Aquilino Gonell is one of the brave policemen who defended the Capitol during the January 6th attacks. Born in the Dominican Republic and a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Gonell (and many Latinos that day) were left in utter shock when they witnessed the Capitol’s storming, a heinous attack on the values Gonell promised to uphold. 

“We like to believe it couldn’t happen here, but it can.” said Murguía in reference to Gonell’s view of the storming.  

Along with Officer Aquilino’s bravery, DACA recipient and Houston nurse Javier Castro is another Latino who exemplifies the pride that our community holds for this country.  

A father, husband and son of immigrants who came to this country so he could succeed, Castro was one of the many medical workers who risked their lives healing others during the COVID-19 pandemic. While others were suffering at the hands of a deadly disease, Castro walked boldly towards those in need and offered what he could. 

“[Javier’s parents] came to this country to build a better life for their son, but their son is helping to build a better country.” Murguía mentioned when praising Castro’s sacrifice at our 2024 Annual Conference. 

Officer Gonell and Nurse Castro are just two examples of the Latino community’s deep roots in this nation and our commitment to the ideas it was built on. 

As the nation’s largest minority group, we have continuously acknowledged that a thriving nation is one that allows their citizens to create positive change. And this election is our time to not only create change but show future generations of Latinos that the democratic process does work in their favor.  

“We have the power at the ballot. We can’t afford to sit this one out.” 

This election is one of the most crucial decisions we face as a country. Latinos should be a part of it. Our time is now!