Hispanic vote could play large role in 2012 election

GREEN BAY - All eyes are on Wisconsin this election year, and all voters are being targeted.

As you decide 2012, candidates are zeroing in their sights on a growing demographic.

The Hispanic population is one of the fastest growing in the state, and local Hispanics are well aware of their political clout.

"We are a big population now! The Hispanic vote is important to them,” said N.E.W. Hispanic Community Council President Gabriela Gamboa.

So as the Hispanic community turned out to celebrate Mexico's independence with a festival Sunday, organizers said they want their voices to be heard by candidates.

Activists from both parties came out to march in this Hispanic Independence parade and socialize with voters afterwards.

“They need to know that we do care and they need to focus on our community,” said Gamboa.

Hispanics make up nearly 6 percent of Wisconsin's population. Statewide estimates of unregistered, eligible Hispanic voters are around 76 thousand people.

“We are trying to let people know what's going on, know that they have to vote. It's very, very important,” said Gamboa.

The Brown County Democratic Party says besides registering people to vote at this event, it's reaching out to Hispanic voters through its platform.

“Our priorities are in education and health care, and making sure they're doing well. That's what we're all about,” said incumbent State Sen. Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay).

President Barack Obama says he supports the Dream Act, which allows children under the age of 15 who were brought to this country illegally the ability to one day apply to college.

"We need to support the Dream Act, but we aren't going to vote for Obama just because," said Gamboa.

Republican Presidential Nominee Mitt Romney says he would not support the Dream Act.

Catholics for Romney had a booth at the festival. They said the Republican platform matches up with the majority of Hispanic's religious views on pro-life issues.

"I think the Republicans are more in line with the typical Mexican and Hispanic family stands for. We stand for family. We stand for supporting each other,” said Republican State Senate Candidate John Macco, Hansen’s challenger this fall.

In Brown County alone, more than 14 thousand Hispanics are of voting age.

And no matter where they stand politically, community organizers say you can bet more will be coming out in force to the polls this year.

"Oh come on! It's going to be that way! It's like we cannot deny that we are here!” said Gamboa.