Luis Gutierrez for president? Latino activists may 'draft' him

By Chad Merda

Of all the names that have been floated out there for presidential runs in 2016, Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Illinois, is one that hasn’t been included. But some people want to change that.

Crain’s Chicago Business reports that a group of Latino activists want to “draft” him, even though Gutierrez says he’s “not running for president.” But in an interview with Crain’s, he declined to say whether or not he’d change his mind if President Barack Obama fails to enact immigration reform.

Instead, Mr. Gutierrez repeatedly said he expects Mr. Obama will keep his word, and right now we are getting ready for that. But he conceded Hispanics have been disappointed as promises of action have gotten pushed back by a crisis, the political calendar or some other factor.

But Emma Lozano, who heads up Centro Sin Fronteras, is trying to rally the troops and said her group will begin collecting signatures on “Draft Gutierrez” petitions.

We’re tired of being lied to, Ms. Lozano said. Our community deserves respect. In a statement, she added, If President Obama betrays us again, then let it be the final time. We will march and run our own Latino independent candidate. Join us in drafting Congressman Gutierrez.

Political consultant Doug Scofield told Crain’s a presidential run is a long shot, but Lozano “wouldn’t be doing this if Luis didn’t want her to.”

Via Crain’s Chicago Business

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