ABSTRACT
To the extent that Mark Penn's observations represent a new conventional wisdom among Democrats, Latinos achieved much in the 1996 elections. Latinos moved increasingly into the mainstream of American politics. But they found themselves in the mainstream of a political system that does not seek to expand participation. They were, then, awash in the mainstream—some had more opportunities, but the majority were informally excluded from political engagement. Analysis such as the impact of Latino electorates on the outcome of national elections is a recent phenomenon. Two approaches to analysis of national elections are identified: candidate-centered and postelection review. The 1996 elections presented Latinos with unique opportunities for four reasons. First, the Democrats controlled the White House, and President Clinton faced no primary opposition. Second, more than ever before Latino leaders had central roles in the administration. Third, California Latinos mobilized against Proposition 187 in 1994. Finally, the Latino electorate was growing.
