Broadband Beneficial for Political and Electoral Engagement, Says Hispanic Group

A report released Friday by Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) says that Latinas with internet access are more likely to be informed about new laws and the legislative process than those without a connection.

“The Latina voter is a growing and influential segment of the California electorate,” said Helen Iris Torres, executive director of HOPE. “Identifying their level of internet consumption and usage habits of new media, two tools that increase voter engagement and participation, can help mobilize more effective strategies to involve Latinas in the electoral process,” she said.

Those with a connection are also more likely to become actively involved with groups that have a direct impact on their families and careers, according to HOPE, which argues that such a direct correlation between connectivity and involvement in the political process is an important benefit which will likely be developed more in the national broadband plan.