Hispanic America: Basic Facts

Do Republicans have to be careful in how they handle Sonia Sotomayor's appointment to the Supreme Court? You bet.

In 2008, according to the Pew Hispanic Center, Hispanics made up 9% of the electorate. They voted Obama over McCain by 67%-31%. Bush had 44% of the Hispanic vote in 2004. A look at election results suggests Hispanics helped move Florida, Nevada, Colorado, and New Mexico from Republican in 2004 to Democratic in 2008.

The Hispanic vote’s importance grows rapidly in the future [chart]. For a graphic look at the location and strength of America’s Hispanic population, please go here.