Today, the Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) agreed to send formal invitations to those Hispanic Republicans who have expressed interest in joining the CHC. Per our by-laws, the members of the CHC will vote on whether to deny or admit any new Member. An applicant must receive a majority of votes to be admitted. The Chairwoman will accept the decision of the collective body of the CHC.

Note, Members have been clear that this is not about party, it is about being consistent with the values and issues of the CHC. We support the Dream Act, we support increased access to healthcare through the ACA, we voice our vocal support for the humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico, we want a tax plan that helps the middle class. The CHC is on the front lines of protecting the Hispanic community from the Trump Administration’s harmful policies and putting forth productive, common-sense legislation that lifts up our community.

Quote from CHC Chairwoman Lujan Grisham from after today’s CHC Member Meeting:

"We are absolutely, in writing, making it very clear that we recognize that Curbelo and Ileana informally have asked that they be part of the caucus, now they're going to be invited to formally say they want to be a member of the caucus," said CHC chairwoman Michelle Lujan Grisham. "Every member of our caucus gets a vote."

Lujan Grisham said the letter will be sent to Curbelo and Ros-Lehtinen tomorrow and that a vote could take place next week if the Miami lawmakers reply promptly. Lujan Grisham has not made up her mind on whether she will vote for Curbelo, though she said "it may persuade some members" to vote for him if he signs onto the Dream Act.

 Background Articles:

· The Hill - Hispanic Caucus to invite Republicans to Join

· Miami Herald - Curbelo, Ros-Lehtinen can apply for Hispanic Caucus Membership

Background History:

· The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), founded in December 1976, is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHC is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories. For the 115th Congress there are currently 31 CHC members (the most in history): 29 U.S. Representatives and two U.S. Senators.

· The caucus at one time included members from both parties, but several Florida Republicans walked out years ago over differences on Cuba policy and formed their own group, the Congressional Hispanic Conference. More information on the Hispanic Conference here: https://goo.gl/nQQLkG.