Disgruntled Latinos seek independent force

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. Latinos, feeling neglected by both parties, are discussing forming an independent "Tequila Party" force, leaders say.

"I don't know if it's going to happen, but there's talk," Fernando Romero, president of Nevada's Hispanics in Politics, told the Las Vegas Sun. "There's discussion about empowerment of the Latino vote."

The idea, being debated in Nevada and around the country, stems from frustration over the Democrats' inaction on immigration reform and feelings of being taken for granted.

The sudden rise of the Tea Party is an inspiration to some for its grassroots organizational style.

Hispanics were key to electing President Barack Obama and saving Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., but many feel their efforts have gone unrewarded.

One the other side, Hispanic Republicans complain the party seeks their votes but often advocates hostile policies, especially on immigration.

"There's a feeling that Democrats aren't listening," said Louis DeSipio, a Chicano studies professor at the University of California, Irvine.

If Congress puts off immigration reform again, some Hispanics may strike out on their own.

"It would definitely induce us," Romero said. "We would have to do something at that point to get ready for 2012."