New poll shows Latino voters watching Congress closely on immigration

WASHINGTON, DC - A new nationwide poll conducted by Latino Decisions demonstrates that a solid majority of Latino voters want Congress to pass commonsense immigration reform with a pathway to citizenship, and if Congress does not do so, it could impact Latino voters' decision at the polls.

With only about a fourth approving of how Republicans in Washington are handling this issue, the findings also suggest that Latino voters are closely following the policy and players in the debate with many wise to any legislative hurdles that may be used to block immigration reform. Latino voters are also more likely to blame Republicans than Democrats if Congress does not pass legislation on immigration this year.

The Service Employees International Union's Secretary-Treasurer Eliseo Medina released the following statement:

In the November, 2012 election, Latino voters delivered a clear mandate to the President and Congress: the time is now for commonsense immigration reform with a pathway to citizenship. The mandate hasn't changed. This new poll shows that the Latino community is paying close attention to the immigration debate and to the elected officials who champion immigration reform and those who stand in its way.

"This poll is also flashing a big warning light for Congress. Latinos have heard the comments by members of Congress and Republican leaders -- off the cuff or deliberate -- about legalization but no citizenship. And they oppose that approach in no uncertain terms. They know that no citizenship means second class status and a rejection of our family members, friends, and co-workers as a part of our society. That notion is flat out wrong and unacceptable. If it was a trial balloon, it is time to reel it in because it won't fly.

"The policy and political dynamics can change but it's up to Congress. In fact, Latino voters say they are more likely to support a Republican or a Democrat if they champion immigration reform with a roadmap to citizenship.

"If Congress hasn't caught on by now, the Latino community is paying close attention to the actions and rhetoric that their members of Congress are enlisting on immigration reform. Latino voters support a commonsense immigration reform that includes a clear pathway to citizenship. Unsubstantiated roadblocks that make aspiring citizens in the country wait for decades to earn citizenship could cost politicians and aspiring presidential candidates an opportunity to make inroads with Latino voters.

"Politicians have an opportunity to get it right now before the 2014 elections. Make no mistake, Latinos will vote and we will compensate immigration reform champions with our vote."

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