Press Archive

Record Number of Latino Voters Turn Out
for the June 5th Run-Off Election
Latinos Comprise 41.2% of All Votes Cast,
According to WCVI Turnout Study

Los Angeles, CA - Based on a citywide election day turnout study conducted by the William C. Velásquez Institute (WCVI), it is estimated that 41.2% of registered Latinos or approximately 130,000 voters turnout to vote. Latino turnout more than tripled since the last Mayoral Election establishing a new all-time record of votes cast by Latinos in a Los Angeles municipal Election.

The turnout study revealed that Latino votes represented 23.6% of election day votes cast. For the study, WCVI analyzed 30 selected precincts throughout Los Angeles, in a sample survey that represented 85% of all Latino voters. In 1993, Latinos represented only 8% of all votes cast, 15% in 1997 and 23.6% of all election day votes cast for the June 5th runoff election.

"The record Latino turnout, is a re-affirmation of their commitment to participate in our political process" stated Antonio González WCVI President. "The enthusiasm of the voters was again evident in this election, fueled primarily by the historical opportunity of electing the first Latino Mayor in more than 129 years" concludes González.

A similar study conducted by WCVI of all votes cast during the April 10th Primary Election revealed that Latino voters turnout at higher rates than most ethnic groups. The William C. Velásquez Institute (WCVI) is a non-partisan Latino public policy and research institute than examines the Latino electorate and opinion trends. Since its founding in 1985, WCVI has been at the forefront of Latino research in the areas of civic and economic development. For further information and preliminary results, please refer to our web-site at www.wcvi.org.