The Hispanic community is the fastest growing minority in the country and the state, and this fact has not escaped the attention of political parties. This traditionallyDemocratic-leaning group is being courted by Republicans. The percentage of Hispanic voters is on the rise – both nationally and in Missouri. And, while polls indicate most Hispanic voters tend to side with the Democratic Party, Republicans see an opportunity to make inroads. Hispanic Republicans of Missouri was formed last year by a group of socially conservative Hispanics. Chairman Anthony Ramirez says it’s the social issues that many Hispanics find attractive with the GOP, and that includes the party’s position on abortion. Group official Adolfo Castillo adds Democrats might have taken Hispanic voters for granted, because this group has little influence in the decision making. Neither will discuss membership numbers. They’ll only say the group is expanding as the Hispanic population grows.
