Great news down in the Valley of Texas, which could be the final showdown between Team Clinton and the Forces of Change.
State Rep. Pete Gallego, chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, has announced he is endorsing Barack Obama for president.
The Alpine Democrat had earlier supported his near neighbor, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson.
The non-partisan Mexican American Legislative Caucus comprises most Hispanic members of the Texas House of Representatives. Gallego said he was in the process of contacting other Democrats in MALC to see who they are lining up for in the presidential election.
The Rio Grande Guardian emailed me to request that we take the link down to their page about the endorsement, because they're overwhelmed with traffic. When I get the OK from them, I'll put the link back. -ct
This is such solid good news
In the California primary on Super Tuesday, Latino voters broke 2 to 1 for Clinton. Gallego said he saw no reason why, as voters get to know Obama better, that ratio would not shrink in Texas.
“Obama’s life story and his values are so much closer to the Latino community than any candidate other than Bill Richardson,” Gallego said.
“Part of what drives me is his life story. It’s a fascinating life story. It’s more than just the issues, it’s his values. I think Hispanics and South Texas should really be able to relate to him.”
Lets hope this endorsement can push the National Obama Campaign to make several lingering stops in the Valley of Texas.
Make no mistake, Obama wins Texas, this Nomination race is OVER... if he wants to WIN Texas, it'll take a solid performance in the Valley. This Rep believes that it's possible despite Hillary's Advantages in name recognition
“It’s a natural advantage for Hillary, but it is not insurmountable. I just think the Obama folks have to work twice as hard to make sure people know who he is, what he stands for, and once that is put forward he does very, very, well.”
Obama should spend Days down in the Valley, along the border, with Rep Gallego and Sen Ted Kennedy in tow, on the last battleground where Hillary can be bested. Here's to hoping he will!
Update: Local Houston Grassroots Rally in the News and also here.
The San Antonio Express Endorsed Obamatoday
The Dallas Morning News Endorsed Obama
Momentum is definitely building in the Lone Star State. If Hillary loses Texas, then she can wrap it up and head back to New York...