Pelosi Pitches Dem Agenda, Obama To Latinos

In remarks to a group of Latino leaders, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi touted Democratic priorities -- and the 2008 candidacy of Barack Obama.

Speaking to a meeting of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials (NALEO), Pelosi emphasized economic progress and a "humane" immigration policy.

"Your convention theme is fitting for this time in our nation's politics. For many years, Latino influence has been growing in politics and across varied fields, culminating in this year when Latinos will have a major voice in who becomes our next president," Pelosi says. "Your convention's theme -- ¡Ya es hora! (Now is the time!) -- is truly fitting for a year in which Latino voters will make the difference in who becomes our next president of the United States."

The priorities of the Democratic-controlled Congress benefit Latinos, Pelosi says.

"With every victory -- whether raising the minimum wage, protecting home ownership, making college more affordable, insisting on a humane immigration policy, or making health care more affordable -- we are focused on creating jobs so that Latinos and all people can build an American Dream of their own. Job creation is job number one in the New Direction Congress," she says.

Pelosi also specifically singled out the issue of immigration, taking President Bush to task.

"We are also fighting for a fair and humane immigration policy because that is critical for America's economy and essential if our nation is to be true to its highest ideals," she says. "A humane policy includes putting an end to immigration raids that are unfair, ineffective and undertaken only to score political points at the expense of Latino children and families. We urge the President: stop dividing families--put an end to this destructive practice."

Pelosi also touted Obama's candidacy among the Latino audience -- a bloc Obama must make inroads with. Many Latinos supported Obama's former rival, Sen. Hillary Clinton, for the Democratic presidential nomination.

"When American goes to the polls in November, voters look over their ballot this November, we should use a simple test. We should ask every voter: which candidate stands up for good paying jobs, for affordable health care, and for a quality education?" Pelosi says.

"There is only one candidate in the race for president who has always and will always stand up for and fight for those issues. That candidate's name is Barack Obama. Si se puede!" she adds. "With the votes of Latinos, and the support of millions of Americans, Barack Obama will help us create a new beginning, free of a disappointing and tragic past, and looking forward to a more prosperous and peaceful
future. Together we can create that future, with a growing Democratic majority in Congress, and a youthful, forward-looking, and talented leader for America, the next president of the United States, Barack Obama."

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