15 October 2008 - 07H54
Las Cruces, a tumbling Republican stronghold
In New Mexico, where 40% of the population is Hispanic, both political parties are trying to exploit an increasing split between older and younger generations. The southern part of the state, however, remains a Republican stronghold.
About 1820 or 1825 was when the Jurado family settled in the the south of New Mexico, which at that time was still part of Mexico. Arturo Jurado owns a plant that processes caynee peppers for making hot sauce. Like many farmers here, he has been hit by rising costs.
"When I run my diesel trucks, I used to buy about a year ago $2.60 per gallon, and it's gotten up all the way to $4.50."
Anti-abortion and in favour of tighter immigration controls, Arturo's choice for president is automatic: 'McCain of course, he has the experience. Hes been there. We know who he is. While Obama, we really don't know who he is. He just appeared two or three years ago, he doesnt have any experience."
It's a view typical among conservative Hispanics in this city. It's steeped in the tradtional values of the old country, whose border is just 40 miles away.
But research suggets Hispanics now prefer Barack Obama, who's leading in the polls here.
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Comments
Mesilla is a little different than Las Cruces
Your segment was filmed almost exclusively in the town of Mesilla, which looks a bit different from the actual city of Las Cruces. As an active volunteer for the Obama campaign, I can tell you it is looking more and more like Barack is going to carry the entire state, including Las Cruces. We're tired of the same old policies which have been driving our country into a conservative ditch.