Congress can be a mirror: UNM professor researches a reflection of Latino interests
January 23, 2024 - Savannah Peat
Entering an election year, there’s always extra focus on voter representation. You hear phrases involving your voice, your vote, and your promised changes as candidates vie for your vote, but will they act in your best interest for years to come?
This idea of representation and seeing if your pick acts on behalf of you and your community is something UNM Political Science Professor Michael Rocca is exploring.
“I've always been curious as to why any politician, any elected official takes the stances that they do. Why do they choose particular positions and why do they take positions at all on issues?,” Rocca said. “How do they walk that fine line between saying the right thing and saying the wrong thing versus not saying anything at all? That strategy has always fascinated me.”
In collaboration with UNM Director of Center for Social Policy Gabriel Sanchez and alumnus Lisa Sanchez, Rocca evaluates the cause and effect in Latino/Hispanic representatives and their Latino citizens.
“This particular topic popped up because it was something that hadn't been revisited in about 20 years. It was a really important update because of the dramatic demographic changes that have happened in the last 20 years,” Rocca said.
Read more in the UNM Newsroom
