Politicians seek Latino votes at Mexican Independence Day Parade

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Governor Pat Quinn and Republican Bruce Rauner both marched in Sunday's Mexican Independence Day Parade trying to attract Latino votes. The candidates for Chicago mayor were also there looking ahead to 2015.

Bands, beauty queens, floats and tequila, It's a day Chicago area Mexican-American look forward to all year, the celebration of Mexico's independence. And in a political year, it's a day politicians wouldn't miss.

"The fastest, growing Mexican American population in America, the city of Chicago," said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. "The most productive area for revenue outside of Michigan Avenue is Little Village, 26th Street."

The sought-after Latino vote is not only vital in the mayor's race, but important in what appears to be a tight governor's race. While recent polls have shown republican candidate Rauner ahead, a recent Chicago Tribune poll found Governor Quinn with an 11-point lead.

"Polls come and go, so I'm happy to have good poll," Quinn said. "You never give up, you always have to campaign and listen to the people."

The poll may suggest Quinn's message of painting the wealthy Rauner as out of touch with the common man may be working. As he worked the crowd Sunday, Rauner admitted it's going to be a close race.

"I'm very proud of my success," he said. "I've worked hard and I didn't inherit a nickel. Do you know who I've been working for my whole career? It's teachers, police because I've been investing their money."

Mayoral candidates didn't miss the chance to be seen Sunday either. For the first time, the Chicago Teacher's Union had a float in the parade. CTU President Karen Lewis has yet to announce her candidacy for mayor, as Alderman Bob Fioretti did Saturday. Both say they welcome each other in the race against Mayor Emanuel.

"I think we need several voices in this race to deal with the problems we're going to face in future of this city," Fioretti said.

"This is what democracy is about, people want a choice," said Lewis.

While she has formed an exploratory committee, Lewis says she will make her decision about a run for mayor when she gathers enough petitions and raises enough money. At this point, she says she has not scheduled any announcement.

Lewis has a bit of time, as the mayor's race is at end of the February.