Like Bennett, O’Dea’s message is also largely focused on economics and the American dream.
“We want future generations to be able to have the same opportunities as us,” O’Dea said in a statement about the announcement. “For decades, we have worked with first- and second-generation Hispanic or Latino immigrants who put down their roots here in Colorado and also want to leave a brighter future for their children and grandchildren.”
The campaign expects the ad to air on Spanish-language television channels until September.
“Our goal is to win the Hispanic and Latino vote,” said Joshua Marin-Mora, spokesperson for the O’Dea campaign. “Democrats are bleeding support from the broader Hispanic community because of crime, inflation and a Democratic Party that has become angry, divisive and extreme. Joe Biden and the Democrats are more focused on political stunts than improving the lives of community members. We play to win.
The O’Dea campaign aired a radio ad on Spanish stations in that state ahead of the primary earlier this year, which was voiced by his wife, Celeste, who is the granddaughter of Mexican immigrants.
Republican Party sees opportunity this year to woo more Latino voters
While Latino voters were once a reliable vote for Democrats, Republicans see an opportunity to make gains this year given the state of the economy and Biden’s low approval ratings.
Although the Latin bloc is not a monolith in Colorado or elsewhere, Professor Robert Preuhs, chair of the political science department at Metropolitan State University in Denver, said the GOP could make inroads.
“I think the Republican Party, after decades or more of neglecting Latinos, sees an opportunity to move some of these voters into their camp. So there’s a sense that Republicans really have a chance to win votes,” he said.
“Latinos scored between four and eight percentage points for Democrats,” added Preuhs, whose work has focused on ethnic and racial politics. “Depending on how close these elections are, Latinos may be the central bloc.”
