The theory of minority political incorporation (Browning, Marshall, and Tabb 1984; 2001) addressed the rise of African Americans and
Latinos in urban politics through coalitions that combined the
mobilization of African-American communities and White liberals
(Sonenshein 1993) and, at times,
Hispanics. While Hispanics were important to the theory of political
incorporation, their role was neither consistent nor central in
coalitions for minority advancement during the 1970s, 1980s, and
early 1990s. However, Latinos; impressive demographic strength is
now translating into major voter registration and turnout gains, and
Latinos increasingly are taking the lead in minority incorporation
in some cities and states. There is, perhaps, no better example of
Latinos; increasing political clout than City Councilman Antonio
Villaraigosa's smashing electoral victory to become the first Latino
mayor of Los Angeles in more than 130 years. Villaraigosa's election
attracted national and international attention, and energized Latino
activists around the country.