Governor Scott Woos Hispanic Voters

April 1, 2014February 8, 2016 Mary Anna Mancuso Carlos Lopez-Cantera, Dreamers bill, education, Florida, Governor Rick Scott, Governor's race, Hispanic voters, Latino voters, Mike Fernandez, reelection, Republican, SB-1400, Senator Jack Latvala, tuition

The Hispanic community is one of the fastest growing voting blocs in Florida, and their vote will play a vital role in the reelection of Governor Rick Scott come November.

In an effort to woo Hispanic voters, Governor Scott chose Carlos Lopez-Cantera as his running-mate, making him the first Hispanic lieutenant governor. The appointment of Lopez-Cantera was viewed by Hispanic leaders as a significant step by Scott in acknowledging the role Hispanics will play in November.

In recent weeks, Governor Scott’s campaign has swirled with controversy over Mike Fernandez’s exit as the Finance co-chair. Fernandez left Scott’s campaign abruptly stating he wanted to spend more time with his family and businesses. The departure of Fernandez has caused some to wonder if Governor Scott will be able to win the Latino vote.

After the fallout with Mike Fernandez, Governor Scott’s campaign has come under a lot of scrutiny over the ability to win over Latino voters. However, this isn’t Governor Scott’s first election and his record speaks for itself.

Earlier this month, Governor Scott publicly backed SB-1400 sponsored by Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater (aka:the Dreamer’s bill) which would place a limit on how much universities could raise tuition rates. SB-1400 would allow illegal immigrants to pay cheaper, in-state tuition rates at state colleges and universities if they meet certain requirements. The bill still has to win the support of four committees before it goes to a floor vote, but if it passes SB-1400 it will serve as another victory for Florida under Governor Scott’s leadership.

The passing of SB-1400 has the potential to close the gap between the Latino vote and Governor Scott. If passed the “Dreamers” bill will bring home a win for Floridians by making education affordable and accessible to everyone, including the Latino community.