Cecile Richards, the former president of Planned Parenthood, said recent wins by Latinas running for political office indicate that “the future is Latina.”
“I know you can’t tell this story enough … When she is sworn into office, she will be the youngest woman ever to be in Congress. They are proof that yes, the future is Latina,” Richards told an audience at an annual conference hosted by UnidosUS.
Richards was referencing Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a 28-year-old who delivered a shocking upset in last month’s Democratic primary against Rep. Joe Crowley, D-N.Y., the number four Democrat in the House.
She also noted the wins of Elizabeth Guzman and Hala Ayala, members of the Virginia House of Delegates.
Richards said Sunday the record-breaking number of women running for political office represents the “most potent political force in America right now.”
“Women are done waiting their turn or asking for permission,” she said. “We are reclaiming our time.”
Richards stepped down as president of Planned Parenthood in April.
