Joo know what time it is?

By Exiled Writer (political contributor to chismetime.com)

From east to west, north and south, politicians from all sides have been courting the Hispanic vote. In what is considered to be one of the most contested elections in recent history, Latinos are now at the very center of both the left and the right when it comes to politics and elections. Latino candidates for both the Democrat and Republican parties, have immigration reform is also on the minds of many voters. More importantly, everyone living in the United States is pursuing the candidate that will best resolve our economic problems. Here are a few highlights from some states where Latinos will determine the outcome of some major races.

Nevada- The governorship is being sought by Brian Sandoval (Republican) and Rory Reid (Democrat). Sharron Angle (Republican) and Harry Reid (Democrat) are seeking the US Senate seat. Sharron Angle’s recent controversial ad about illegal immigration may have hurt her chances of a Latino vote. Rasmussen Reports still has Angle at a four point lead over Harry Reid, but that is a one percent drop from last week.

California- Carly Fiorina (Republican) and Barbara Boxer (Democrat) are running for the US Senate seat.  The Fiorina campaign has been recruiting many Latinos to support the Republican candidate.  The Latino Partnership for Conservative Principles launched an ad against Barbara Boxer that criticizes her positions on traditional values to Hispanics such as favoring gay marriage and abortion. The Boxer campaign retaliated by launching a Spanish language ad showing Fiorina’s support for Arizona’s controversial immigration law. Meg Whitman (Republican) and Jerry Brown (Democrat) are running for governor. Whitman has been accused of purposely hiring undocumented worker Nicky Diaz and then firing her when she informed the Whitman family of her status. The Brown campaign has been accused of manipulating the event.

Illinois- Even Chicago’s mayoral election is not until February 2011, there are now groups of Latinos in the windy city to organize for a Hispanic candidate. City Clerk Miguel Del Valle has announced that he will be running for Mayor of Chicago, he would be running against former White House Chief of staff Rahm Emanuel. This would drive higher registration for Latino voters. 

The country’s Hispanic population is indeed becoming stronger and now politically important. Whether you are a Republican, Democrat or Independent, take pride in knowing that the nation’s largest minority group is becoming a major political force that will determine the future of the country. Be informed, and get out the vote.