According to syndicated columnist Ruben Navarrette the race is on to find the next Latinobama. He or she but most likely a he, will need the following traits:
Someone who inspires Latinos without threatening non-Latinos.
One who appreciates one’s ethnic background but not being limited by it.
A realist who does not gloss over the mistreatment of Latinos to pander to mainstream but is not bitter over it.
Mr. Navarrette is betting on Julian Castro the newly elected 34 year old mayor of San Antonio. He no doubt is a major contender and someone to watch. He is being likened to Henry Cisneros and I see why. When I lived in San Antonio under the mayoral rein of Mr. Cisneros he had the three traits outlined above and then some.
Over the years, I have observed Hispanic politicians and their campaigns, working for some as a consultant. Wise words for those Latinos that run to win. Master these traits as a starting point or don’t run at all. Enter Ornaldo Ybarra the newly elected Hispanic city councilman of Pasadena Texas.
Ornaldo Ybarra Pasadena City Councilman District A
When I first met Mr. Ybarra he lacked the political “look”. This subjective doubt was put to rest when I heard him speak and heard his strategy to win the run off race.
He had the drive and determination to rally his troops to get out the vote. He had the educational back ground to meet the basic requirements to be a good city leader of his district. He beat a long time strongly entrenched incumbent by selling his message of positive change. Not to his predominantly Hispanics district, but to white voters. Here is a small clip we did pre-election weeks. My money is on Ornaldo to be a multiple term city leader if he continues to master the art of the trade.
