Go to the mobile version of this Web site.

Login | Contact Us | Site Map | Paid archives | Electronic edition | Subscription Questions | Extras

Clinton woos Hispanics in key states

By Fernando Quintero, Rocky Mountain News

Published December 20, 2007 at 12:30 a.m.

Text size  
Sandoval says "Latinos in Colorado are energized."

Sandoval says "Latinos in Colorado are energized."

More Elections

More stories »

Colorado is one of three states where Sen. Hillary Clinton's campaign will focus on expanding her already strong support among Hispanics.

Clinton's campaign announced Wednesday the formation of Hispanic Leadership Councils in Colorado, Illinois and New Jersey. The councils, composed of local leaders, will reach out to Hispanics both locally and across the country.

They also will work to mobilize the Hispanic vote in states holding primary elections on Feb. 5, including several Western states.

In Colorado - as well as New Mexico, Florida and Nevada - where the 2004 presidential election was closely contested, Hispanics represent a potential swing vote.

"Latinos in Colorado are energized and ready to work hard on building leadership," said Colorado Sen. Paula Sandoval, who joined New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez in a telephone news conference Wed- nesday.

"Hispanics in Colorado know that Hillary Clinton has the strength and experience to create the real change America needs," she added.

A spokesperson for Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards said the former senator will seek the Hispanic vote by continuing to make appearances before Latino groups and addressing Latinos' concerns.

Edwards' Web site includes a bilingual section called "Latinos for Edwards."

Calls to campaign officials for Democratic presidential candidates Sen. Barack Obama and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson were not returned.