COMMENTARY (con't from page 3)
The other reason that Latinos didn’t know he was Latino is because, in spite of his important roles as Energy Secretary and Foriegn Ambassador he was never a well-known national leader in the Hispanic community. There is truly no landmark Hispanic initiative or negotiations associated with him. Most Latinos would expect this from another Latino with so many years in politics. His early days in politics were actually spent working for the Republican party. He was an aide to a Massachusetts congressman (R) and then worked in Henry Kissinger’s State Department in the Nixon Administration. He also chose to marry an American which again supports the view of many Latinos that he is Latino by heritage but not sincerely committed to the Latino culture and people. It is interesting to note that neither La Opinion (Los Angeles) or El Nuevo Herald (Miami); two of the most influential Spanish language newspapers in the country, ran editorials on the endorsement. It is hard to imagine this being the case if Richardson were a highly popular Latino. There is no doubt that America Ferrara from Ugly Betty gets more attention than the Governor from New Mexico.
Many feel that Senator Obama is considering Mr. Richardson as a potential Vice-presidential running mate. Perhaps. If so, it might help him from a foreign policy standpoint but is a double-edged sword with the electorate. First, one must consider whether or not the country is truly ready to have a presidential ticket that has both an African American and an Hispanic American occupying the most important positions on the planet. I am not suggesting this is my view, only stating what we all know is reality. Secondly, it is highly doubtful that Mr. Richardson would add any significant attraction with the Latino populace for reasons already noted.
The bottom line? Mr. Richardson would perhaps make a great Secretary of State in an Obama administration, but would most likely be more of a liability (perhaps even with Latinos) in the general election than a help. This, I think, is reality.
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Do you have a compelling business story about your relationships with Latinos? If so, please let me know. I would like to begin sharing best practices as they are submitted. This way, we can inspire and help one another. Sharing best practices is a great way to bring additional value to the Anglo / Latino experience in the United States.
You and your organization are important to me. Please let me know if I can help you in anyway. We are here to serve you.
Adelante,
Ricardo González, Founder and Executive Director of Bilingual America
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