Latiinos Urged To Not Vote For Congress

 WASHINGTON  -- Latinos for Reform has announced the launch of a national ad campaign in targeted states urging Latino voters not to vote for Members of Congress that have failed to deliver on their immigration reform promises. 

"It's an election year, so perhaps we shouldn't be surprised to hear promises about immigration reform," said LFR PresidentRobert Deposada. "What is surprising, however, is that these politicians really believe that they can continue to make these same promises during every campaign season without ever delivering on them – and that we continue to allow it."

During the 2008 elections, President Obama and the Democratic leadership made a commitment that immigration reform would be passed within a year. Two years later, these lawmakers have not only failed to deliver on this promise; they intentionally undermined even the smallest of reform efforts.

"One has to wonder: Why do the same lawmakers who decided to 'go it alone' on their political priorities like health care reform and the economic stimulus refuse to do the same on comprehensive immigration reform?" Deposada added.

"Clearly, we have been betrayed by both the Democratic and Republican leadership. And now, when they need our votes, they are at it again with more empty promises," said LFR Vice Chairman Naomi Lopez-Bauman. "If we have any chance of making our voices heard, then we must be willing to take dramatic action. This November we can send a message to all politicians: If they didn't keep their promise on immigration reform, then they can't count on our vote."

"Now is the time for us to decide what role we will play in America's political future. We are urging Latinos to be counted by casting their votes for Governor, Mayor, school board, etc. – but not to vote for Congress – on Election Day," Lopez-Bauman added. "If we sit idly by and vote for the same lawmakers that ignore us once they are in office, we will just get more of the same shabby treatment. If, however, we don't vote for politicians who don't deliver on the promises they make to our communities, then they will be forced to stop taking our support for granted."