Voto Latino Congratulates Latinx Biden Appointees And Urges Incoming Administration Consider Further Top Latino Leaders for Openings

Washington, DC – In the three weeks since President-elect Joe Biden’s victory was solidified, the Biden transition team has identified and named several Latinx leaders that the incoming administration plans to nominate to Cabinet-level and other positions. Among those named are Alejandro Mayorkas, who will be nominated for Secretary of Homeland Security, the first Latino to head the agency; Julie Rodriguez, who will serve as Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs; Julissa Reynoso Pantaleon, Chief of Staff to Dr. Jill Biden; and Anthony Bernal, Senior Advisor to Dr. Jill Biden. Their ascensions signal a commitment to diversity within the incoming administration. Voto Latino congratulates each and every one and will serve as a valuable resource to ensure a swift transition and the implementation of policies that address hardships felt by Latinx communities across the country.

“After four years of a presidency built on fear, hate, and utter nonsense, we have chosen leaders who will base their policies in justice, science, and empathy,” said María Teresa Kumar, president and CEO of Voto Latino. “We are also encouraged by the prospect of a diverse and inclusive administration staff. Voto Latino worked with the Biden campaign to highlight issues of equity and inclusion important to Latinx people across the country and will engage with the transition team to ensure the soon-to-be President’s staff reflects the country they will be serving.”

Other Latinx leaders that have been floated for possible positions in the Biden administration are Senator Michelle Lujan Grisham for Secretary of Health and Human Services, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra for United States Attorney General, Lily Eskelsen Garcia for Secretary of Education, and Representative Jimmy Gomez for U.S. Trade Representative. A president’s staff directly impacts the policies that the administration will pursue. For too long, Latinxs have been left out of policymaking. Bringing in qualified Latinx staff will help to address the issues our communities face every day.

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Voto Latino is a grassroots political organization focused on educating and empowering a new generation of Latinx voters, as well as creating a more robust and inclusive democracy. Through innovative digital campaigns, culturally relevant programs and authentic voices, we shepherd the Latinx community towards the full realization of its political power.