Hispanics hope lobbying figures into final drawings

Erin Neff

Wednesday, June 13, 2001 | 10:54 a.m.

Southern Nevada Hispanics waited expectantly last week for proof that politicians had listened to their redistricting proposal.

Andres Ramirez beamed as the state Legislature approached its adjournment thinking his vocal coalition of Hispanics was about to be rewarded with an opportunity for better representation.

"Everything I've heard leads me to believe that they listened to us and that we will be pleased," Ramirez said June 4 in Carson City.

But when the Legislature failed to pass a redistricting plan for the state's Assembly, Senate, state Board of Education, University Regents and U.S. congressional seats, Ramirez and others had to take a step back.

Tuesday Latinos for Equal Representation met to discuss how they should proceed heading into Thursday's special session of the Legislature. Although the coalition has no official role in the redistricting process, both Democrats and Republicans have clamored to accommodate Hispanics because of their growing population and increasing political clout.

Thus, Ramirez and others decided to hold the line on their original proposal for Southern Nevada political districts. The coalition presented maps to both Democrats and Republicans showing how it would draw districts to ensure Hispanics have a chance to win a particular seat or at least have an opportunity to elect a representative of their choice.

From the beginning the coalition has not voiced an opinion on whether the Legislature should expand -- one of the key issues lawmakers must decide.

"We've maintained our position from the beginning," Luis Valera said. "It hasn't changed."

Hispanics comprise roughly 22 percent of the state's population but are currently not represented in the state Legislature. One of the 63 lawmakers has Hispanic roots.

Latinos for Equal Representation has observed the political fray from the outside, but other Hispanic activists are issuing partisan barbs.

Liz Carrasco, a member of the Southern Nevada Hispanic Leadership Committee and executive director of the Nevada State Democratic Party, blames Republicans for the impasse.

"We all understand that Democrats have a stronghold in Southern Nevada, and we need to take that under consideration in redistricting," Carrasco said.

Carrasco also lashed out at state Sen. Jon Porter, R-Henderson, for what she claims was his role in breaking a tentative agreement on redistricting and forcing a special session.

"He's part of the problem," Carrasco said. "I find it very inappropriate for him to be involved drawing the maps when it's clear he wants the (new congressional) seat."

Porter, who ran unsuccessfully for Congress last year and is interested in Nevada's third congressional seat, could not be reached for comment Tuesday or today.