Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush on Thursday spelled out four strategies for Republicans to win over Hispanics as the party gears up for the state's pivotal presidential primary on Tuesday. In a Washinton Post op-ed, Bush writes:
- Recognize the community's diversity, and show empathy for the Hispanic experience in the United States. “Like all voters, Hispanics respond to candidates who show respect and understanding for their experiences."
- Talk up the immigrant dream and American exceptionalism. "The American immigrant story is the most aspirational ever told," and the Republican Party has a "winning message" in its focus on entrepreneurship and small businesses.
- Press for education reform--through broad-based change, rather than simply calling for the elimination of the Education Department. “Hispanic voters, who often feel their children are trapped in failing schools, notice."
- Turn immigration reform into an economic issue. "Republicans should reengage on this issue and reframe it." Hispanics support securing the border and strengthening a fair and legal immigration system.
Bush, the cochair of the Hispanic Leadership Network Conference, has not endorsed a candidate in the GOP presidential primary.
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