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Writer's Note: October 24, 2008

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MÁS Writer's Note: October 24, 2008

The world's eyes are upon us...

I was talking with my cousin from Mexico City and he asked me about how things were going election-wise here in the U.S. He gave me some interesting insight.

Across the border, where U.S. politics can play a role, this election is also being closely monitored.

My cousin, Rodrigo Muñoz Nava, 40, works as an independent Spanish and English translator in Mexico's capital city. He routinely keeps up with the current U.S. (and international) political climate and shared some of his thoughts with me.

"Mexicans, in general, seem to favor the Democrats; however, experts don't think there will be much of a difference, since the relationship with Latin America is not a priority in foreign relations agenda, or the migrant situation in regards to domestic policy", he said. "The USA is the most important country in the world. Every single vote will count. I think it is very important that people vote".

Aware of just how much a significant U.S. Latino voter turnout could affect this election, my cousin also mentioned the resurfacing issue of race.

Not surprisingly, he wondered if it could be a deciding factor in this election, as Americans come face to face with one of the nation's most heated and unavoidable topics.

"In a close race, the Latino vote could definitely decide the election, no question", he said. "But there¹s a thing that I've been hearing called 'concealed racism' where U.S. voters publicly state they'll vote for (Barack) Obama, but when they go to the polls, their vote may go for (John) McCain".

So as you head to the polls on Nov. 4, remember this - the world is watching us and following our presidential election.

And if other nations care enough to do that, shouldn't we care enough to cast our votes and make our voices heard?

Read: 'The Latino Factor'


Also printed in MAS Magazine, 10-24-08
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