The Latino Vote

Chuck Rocha welcomes CBS News' political journalist Fin Gómez to unpack latest polls revealing Latinos dissatisfaction with Donald Trump's policies after 100-days in office. They break down the fear, anger, and disappointment felt by many due to rising inflation and unkept promises.

Chuck and Fin also celebrate Latino excellence in journalism, reflecting on the 3rd annual Brown and Bougie Brunch and the trailblazing reporters making waves in D.C. And yes—there’s laughter too, as Chuck channels his inner Baby Billy from The Righteous Gemstones and explains why we all need more joy in our political lives.

Tune in for data, culture, and real talk on what’s working—and what’s not—in the battle for the Latino vote.
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Recorded April 30, 2025.
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Learn more about Fin Daniel Gómez:

• https://www.cbsnews.com/team/fin-gomez/
• https://x.com/finnygo
• https://www.instagram.com/finnygo

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Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

Chuck Rocha and Mike Madrid welcome Congressman Gabe Vasquez (D-New Mexico CD02) for a wide-ranging conversation about family, fishing, and forging political wins in a red-leaning, majority-Latino district. From adobe bricks to capitol halls, Rep. Vasquez shares the unlikely story of his rise from a Mexican-American farm family and part-time vacuum cleaner salesman to city councilor and the strategy behind how he became the first Democrat in over 50 years to hold his seat.

Tune in to hear:  
- Borderland insights: What it’s like to represent a district larger than Pennsylvania—containing 108 miles of the U.S.–Mexico border.  
- Conservation in Congress: How he brought Gila trout, Mexican gray wolves, and other conservation legislations to Washington.  
- Campaign secrets: How fishing trips, localized Spanish, and a deeply rooted ground game helped Gabe flip a Republican seat twice.  
- The working-class story: Why Latinos aren’t “left” or “right,” but the backbone of America’s workforce—and where Democrats go from here.  
- Insider announcement: Chuck’s “Brown & Bougee” brunch at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, honoring journalists Sabrina Rodriguez and Adrian Carrasquillo!

Whether you’re a political junkie, conservation nerd, or just love a good fish tale, this episode delivers the real-life playbook of winning trust—and votes.
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Recorded April 23, 2025.
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Learn more about Rep. Gabe Vasquez:

• https://vasquez.house.gov/
• https://www.facebook.com/RepGabeVasquez/
• https://bsky.app/profile/repgabevasquez.bsky.social
• https://x.com/repgabevasquez
• https://www.instagram.com/repgabevasquez/

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Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

This week, Chuck Rocha joins Mike Madrid from sunny Palm Springs to tackle the biggest stories shaking American politics—and the Latino community—in real time. From the recent visit of El Salvador's president to the White House and the implications of unhinged deportations to the Trump administration’s move to label international gangs as terrorist organizations, and what that means for due process and TPS holders just trying to build a life here. Chuck shares a deeply personal story about his business partner's struggles with TPS, while Mike lays out the constitutional crisis unfolding in real time. 

They also break down rising grassroots energy, the shifting tide of public opinion, and what recent fundraising numbers from AOC and Bernie tell us about the electorate’s mood. Plus, a preview of the high-stakes Arizona special election in the 7th Congressional District, the drama with Myra Flores and district-shopping in Texas, and the launch of the new Campeones PAC!

It's not just political analysis—it’s a call to action. Listen, subscribe, and get ready to make some noise.

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Recorded April 15, 2025

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Latinos have been a decisive force in elections and will make up 20% of voters by 2030. However, Republicans continue to make gains while working against them, and without action, key battleground states could shift even further. CAMPEONES PAC is committed to changing this by expanding outreach, re-engaging voters, and making early, long-term investments.

• Donate to Campeones PAC: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/campeonespac
• Campeones PAC website: https://www.campeonespac.com/
• Campeones PAC on X: https://x.com/CampeonesPAC

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

Chuck Rocha is back from his hiatus, and oh boy - did he bring someone special for this episode of the Latino Vote Podcast!

Senator Ruben Gallego joins Chuck Rocha and Mike Madrid to break down what it really takes to win hearts and minds in a competitive political landscape. Gallego offers a candid, hilarious, and deeply insightful conversation about his groundbreaking Senate campaign in Arizona, pulling back the curtain on how he won big in a red-leaning state by unapologetically being himself, leaning into his culture, speaking directly to Latino men. This episode is a must-listen for political nerds, aspiring candidates, and anyone hungry for a fresh approach to campaigns.

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Recorded April 9, 2025.

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Learn more about Senator Ruben Gallego:

• https://www.gallego.senate.gov/
• https://www.instagram.com/senrubengallego/
• https://www.facebook.com/SenRubenGallego/
• https://x.com/SenRubenGallego
• https://bsky.app/profile/gallego.senate.gov

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Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

In Part 2 of our discussion with former President of the California State Senate Kevin de León,  we take a hard look at what’s ailing national Democrats and why the party must reconnect with its working-class roots. Furthermore, Kevin breaks his silence on the infamous Nury Martinez recording that shook Los Angeles politics and reflects on the lessons learned from his career in politics. Join us for an unfiltered conversation about power, responsibility, and the future of Latino representation in politics.
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Recorded March 15, 2025.
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Learn more about Kevin de León:
- https://www.kevindeleon.com/
- https://www.facebook.com/KdeleonCD14/
- https://x.com/kdeleon
- https://www.instagram.com/kdeleoncd14/
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
00:29 The Democratic Party need to focus on Working Class Values
07:10 Why Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego Victory resonated with Voters.
10:46 Is California The Housing Crisis Seriously?
15:25 Kevin breaks his silence on the Nury Martinez recording
18:50 Kevin de León reflects on his long-term contributions to Latino Politics and the current state of Latino Representation.
24:35 So you're telling me, Carbon is not for Carne Asadas?
26:08 How Kevin de León championed Climate Change in California.
30:09 Looking at the Future of the Latino Vote and how Democrats can win them back. 
33:07 The disconnect between Democrats and the working-class
36:46 Looking Ahead. The lessons the Democratic party need to learn.
41:48 What's Next for Kevin de León? A Political Return?

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

Welcome to the premiere episode of Latino Vote Voices! For our first episode, Mike Madrid sits down with California political trailblazer Kevin de León — the first Latino to lead the State Senate. Kevin recollects how his humble beginnings, personal struggles, grassroots organizing, and groundbreaking work on climate change and spearheading the Sanctuary State legislation has redefined Latino leadership. Join us as we kick off this journey to amplify Latino voices, inspire action, and build a stronger democracy—one vote at a time.
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Recorded March 15, 2025.
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 WELCOME TO LATINO VOTE VOICES - OUR FIRST GUEST IS KEVIN DE LEON
01:30 FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO POLITICAL AWAKENING
08:16 COMMUNITY ORGANIZING AT UC SANTA BARBARA
16:22 CREATING THE SANCTUARY STATE BILL
20:24 NAVIGATING POLITICAL AND LEGAL HURDLES TO UPHOLD SB 54
31:46 REFLECTING ON PARTY STRATEGY AND THE LATINO VOTE
37:56 WHAT DOES THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY NEED TO CHANGE?
42:36 A CYCLE OF DEMEANING THE LABOR VOTE
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Learn more about Kevin de León:
- https://www.kevindeleon.com/
- https://www.facebook.com/KdeleonCD14/
- https://x.com/kdeleon
- https://www.instagram.com/kdeleoncd14/
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Visit our website and subscribe to our newsletter at https://latinos.vote/

The Latino Vote on X: @TheLatino_Vote (https://x.com/TheLatino_Vote)
The Latino Vote Podcast on Bluesky: @thelatinovote.bsky.social

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of the Latino Vote Voices!

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

"Right now, there are more Republicans in California than there were during the Schwarzenegger administration."
That's just one of many eye-opening observations provided by our esteemed guest, former chairwoman of the California Republican Party and the first Latina to hold the role, Jessica Millan Patterson. Patterson reflects on her six-year tenure, during which she spearheaded voter registration efforts, expanded Latino representation in the GOP, and helped shift the political landscape in the nation's bluest state. Mike Madrid invites her to discuss the challenges of running a state party, the growing influence of Latino voters, and what Democrats may be getting wrong. If you are looking for compelling insight on the future of Republican politics in California, this episode is for you!

Learn more about Jessica Millan Patterson and CAGOP Trailblazers:

• https://www.millanpatterson.com
• https://www.facebook.com/CAGOPchairwoman
• https://x.com/millanpatterson
• https://cagop.org/ca-trailblazers

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Recorded March 19, 2025

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

Rev up your engines and buckle up for a wild ride with Chuck and Mike on this episode of the Latino Vote Podcast! 

Our dynamic hosts have planned quite a road trip—a not-so-scenic look at a Tesla dealership near the White House with heavy traffic coming from the crashing stock market and the tariff trade war. They make a pit stop to observe the continuing resolution to stop a potential government shutdown and share their insight on the iconic Latino lowrider culture. Catch this blend of cultural history, political insight, and a fondness for everything CHROME that only the Latino Vote Podcast can deliver.

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Recorded March 12, 2025.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

You won't need your paddles for this episode!

Chuck and Mike meet up in Washington, D.C., to deliver a no-holds-barred breakdown of Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress. Together, they peel back the layers of a spectacle of this campaign rally in disguise. From dissecting Trump’s repeated attacks and evasions on key issues like immigration and the economy, to questioning whether Democrats should even participate in such farce, this episode offers an unfiltered look at today’s turbulent political landscape.

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Recorded March 5, 2025

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Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

Chuck and Mike take a hard look at the latest polling data for Donald Trump. With his initial presidential honeymoon fading, the hosts break down whether the dip in numbers represents a genuine decline or simply a normalization of his enduring base support. They break down what the data says, how Latino voters are reacting to the early months of the new administration, and whether Republican gains in Congress could be at risk. Plus, they discuss the budget fight in Washington, Elon Musk’s growing role in the Trump White House, and what it all means for the 2026 midterms. Tune in for expert insights on the state of the Latino vote!

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Recorded February 26, 2025.

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Articles referenced this episode

• MSNBC - House GOP narrowly passes Trump budget blueprint that threatens Medicaid (https://www.msnbc.com/all-in/watch/house-gop-narrowly-passes-trump-budget-blueprint-that-threatens-medicaid-232923205765)
• AP - Nearly 40% of contracts canceled by Musk’s DOGE are expected to produce no savings (https://apnews.com/article/doge-federal-contracts-canceled-musk-trump-cuts-a65976a725412934ad686389889db0df)
• FiveThirtyEight Latest Poll - Do Americans approve or disapprove of Donald Trump? (https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/approval/donald-trump/)
• youtube.com/@TheAgendaProject - Granny Off the Cliff (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGnE83A1Z4U&t=51s)
• youtube.com/@dcexaminer - 1995: Chris Farley does Newt Gingrich impersonation during House Republican meeting (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlM_IFCNgKw)

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!

Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Find us on Substack: https://substack.com/@thelatinovotepodcast

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_Vote

Visit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.vote

If you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!