Report shows Latinos are underrepresented in state, local government

A report released Thursday underscored how Latinos lag in holding elected office in California, even as they become the largest ethnic group in the state.

At a panel hosted by the Latino Legislative Caucus and the Leadership California Institute, lawmakers and Latino political experts grappled with the apparent contradiction of the growing Latino population bloc but stagnant number of political officials.

"While Latinos have surpassed 39% of the population of California, we have an atrocious voter turnout rate," said Assemblymember Luis Alejo (D-Watsonville), the chairman of the Legislative Latino Caucus.

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