The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. This episode is all about the youth vote and it's impact in future elections! Chuck and Mike sit down with Christina Tzintzún Ramirez, Executive Director of Next Gen America, to dive deep into the transformative power of young Latino voters. Drawing on groundbreaking data from battleground states like Texas, Arizona, and Nevada, the conversation unpacks how economic hardship, social isolation, and innovative digital outreach—from barbershop events to gaming platforms—are reshaping political allegiances. Discover why the youth vote is the cornerst ..read more

Chuck and Mike welcome our first guest of Season 2025, Dr. Derek Wakefield, a political academic whose groundbreaking research challenges conventional wisdom on Latino voting behavior. They break down how Latino voters—especially independents—prioritize economic issues over the traditional racial or immigration-based appeals. Dr. Derek findings reveal why Republican messaging made inroads with Latino Independents in past elections and the Democratic Party’s missteps in voter outreach. Tune in for a data-driven conversation that redefines Latino political identity and the future of American ele ..read more

Articles referenced in this episode: CNN - See the process deported migrants go through after landing in Guatemala (https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/27/world/video/deported-migrants-guatemala-arrival-digvid) Newsweek - Donald Trump Pardon Recipients Are Being Charged With New Crimes (https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-pardon-recipients-are-being-charged-new-crimes-2022980) Politico - Trump freed a Jan. 6 defendant charged with assaulting police. DOJ had him arrested again on a gun charge. (https://www.politico.com/news/2025/01/22/trump-jan-6-defendant-gun-charge-00 ..read more

Articles referenced in this episode: CNN - See the process deported migrants go through after landing in Guatemala (https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/27/world/video/deported-migrants-guatemala-arrival-digvid) Newsweek - Donald Trump Pardon Recipients Are Being Charged With New Crimes (https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-pardon-recipients-are-being-charged-new-crimes-2022980) Politico - Trump freed a Jan. 6 defendant charged with assaulting police. DOJ had him arrested again on a gun charge. (https://www.politico.com/news/2025/01/22/trump-jan-6-defendant-gun-charge-00 ..read more

Nothing like Hell breaking loose in the Wintertime. Chuck Rocha and Mike Madrid dive into the latest political headlines, from immigration raids and policy shifts to the battle for Latino support in upcoming elections. They analyze how recent actions by the Trump administration continues to shock America while also previewing the 2025 DNC leadership race. With humor, sharp insights, and a few unexpected stories (including Chuck’s back-alley egg deal), they explore what’s at stake for Latino communities and how both parties are positioning themselves for the future. - Recorded January 29, 2025 ..read more

Poor Chuck. Going from hanging out with blue-footed boobies in the Galapagos, to watching Trump, back in America, demand an apology from a church Bishop for being asked to 'show mercy.' In this opening episode of the 2025 season of The Latino Vote, hosts Mike Madrid and Chuck Rocha examine how Donald Trump’s divisive tactics, including aggressive immigration policies and attempts to exploit Latino communities for political gain, are shaping the 2025 congressional races. Highlighting 16 critical districts where Latino voters will shape the outcome, the discussion examines how shifts in voter b ..read more

We would like to thank you, all of our listeners - from the political nerds to the casual podcast supporter - for joining us on our deep dives into the Latino influence in politics. And a huge shout out to our guests on the show, and to those of you who engaged with us every episode.  In this special year-end finale, Chuck and Mike unveil the first inaugural LaVo Awards, recognizing the best and worst moments in politics this year! From the myths we’ve lost to the individuals reshaping our future, this episode highlights 2024’s most impactful stories. With their signature wit and insight ..read more

Calling on all you political nerds!! ? Next week, on the final episode of the Latino Vote Podcast this year, Chuck Rocha & Mike Madrid will hold a contest for the 'Best & Worst Moments in Politics of 2024. '?   But we need your help: ? What are *your* picks for the best and worst moments of the year?   ? Got ideas for what to name our annual awards?   Rules:   ❌ No Donald Trump or Kamala Harris—think outside the box!   ✅ Hot takes welcome: standout races, Latino voting trends, surprises in Congress?   To submit your answers either: Comment on this epi ..read more

Chuck Rocha and Mike Madrid dive into holiday misadventures, including a highway patrol ticket and Thanksgiving reflections from California to the Dominican Republic. Chuck reflects on his consideration (and ultimate decision not to) run for the DNC chair, sharing insights on the challenges and responsibilities of leadership in politics.  Chuck will continue to be a driving force for democrats as he highlights the strategies he utilized to help flip key California House seats. Mike delivers a sharp critique of both parties' approaches to engaging Latino voters, emphasizing the need for a ..read more

The Latino Century Audio Book read by Lee Osorio coming June 18! Pre-Order your copy of The Latino Century with Simon & Schuster: Tinyurl.com/latinocentury Or Buy the #1 New Release on Amazon. - Chuck Rocha reflects on the challenges of balancing a personal life with rigorous campaign schedules, sharing firsthand experiences of early voting setups in Washington, D.C. and the grueling demands of a tight Ward 7, Council race. Afterwards, our hosts turn to the recent Republican primary in Texas' 23rd Congressional District, where incumbent Rep. Tony Gonzales edged out YouTuber and ..read more