Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Tequila Party’ proposal gains international attention

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Political organizer Fernando Romero says if immigration reform isn't tackled soon, Hispanics may strike out on their own.

The idea of a "Tequila Party," which until recently was only quietly debated among Latino leaders, is now making a splash.

First reported Sunday by the Sun, the proposal has gained international attention and has been featured in news publications worldwide.

Latino leaders frustrated by Democrat’s inaction on immigration reform and fears that as a voting bloc they’re a political afterthought are discussing whether to sever their traditional Democratic ties and form an independent grass-roots political group.

They have talked about modeling the effort after the Tea Party, not in substance but in grass-roots organizational style, and have dubbed the proposed movement the “Tequila Party.”

Fernando Romero, president of the nonpartisan Hispanics in Politics, who has spoken with leaders in Nevada and nationally about the proposed effort, said he has been inundated by calls since he was featured in the Sun story.

Reporters from Fox News, the Mexican broadcasting station TV Azteca and even a Brazilian publication have asked Romero for interviews, he said.

Dozens of news organizations have followed up on the Sun story. A rewrite in the Huffington Post received more than 400 comments as of midday Monday.

"This Tequila Party thing has exploded," Romero said.

Commenters on the stories appear to have mixed feelings about the potential third party.

Some called the idea of a Latino effort "racist." Others cringed at the name. Many applauded the prospect of a movement to highlight Hispanic concerns.

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