GROWING HISPANIC POPULATION COURTED: FINANCIAL, VOTING INFLUENCE BEING FELT
By KURT MOORE, The Marion Star

MARION -- Hispanics, a growing population in Marion and many other communities, are becoming the chic market for such industries as entertainment and clothing. They are now being sought not only for their buying power but for their vote and influence as well.

The Rev. Rafael Velazco, minister of Oakland United Methodist Church, wasn't surprised to see both Democrats and Republicans looking for the Hispanic vote in 2004's presidential election. Neither was Frank Hernandez, owner of Leader Grill Sports Bar.

"It makes me feel proud," said Hernandez.

Hispanics once voted almost automatically for Democrats, rarely giving a second thought to Republican candidates. Only Cubans supported Republicans in large numbers.

Not anymore. In this year's presidential race, most exit polls credited President George W. Bush with capturing 43 percent to 45 percent of the Hispanic vote. It was greater than the 35 percent he got against former Vice President Al Gore in 2000.

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