About the Center
The mission of CLAPR is to foster and support thoughtful, objective, and innovative research on the political and policy circumstances of the nation’s Latina/o-Hispanic population, thereby creating a fuller, deeper understanding of politics and governance in the United States. This mission entails facilitating and disseminating research that emphasizes, but is not limited to, empirical and normative theoretical perspectives, historical context, institutional dimensions, and public policy issues which are especially germane to the Latina/o-Hispanic population while also having broad significance for American society and politics.
Research
CLAPR commissioned a survey of Arizona voters -- with a substantial Latinx 'oversample' -- which asked about respondent's likelihood of voting, whom the respondent will vote for, etc. This survey led to several blog postings, public interviews with Center-affiliated faculty, and other public attention and recogntion. We have plans continue similar, and other, activities in the future.
2025 Distinguished Career Award
Celebrating Dr. Francisco Pedraza: 2025 MPSA Distinguished Career Award Recipient
We’re thrilled to share that Dr. Francisco Pedraza, Co-Director of CLAPR and Associate Professor at ASU’s School of Politics and Global Studies, has been honored with the 2025 Distinguished Career Award by the Latino/a Caucus of the Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA).
The award recognizes Dr. Pedraza’s impactful scholarship in political attitude formation and behavior, as well as his unwavering mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students hallmarks of his career at ASU and beyond.
At the annual MPSA meeting in Chicago, CLAPR affiliate Andrea Borbon was present to share our research and witness this celebration of Dr. Pedraza’s contributions.
Dr. Pedraza is also a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Fellow and has long been described by students as “sunshine in human form” for the way he leads with empathy and brilliance in everything he does.
We are beyond proud to celebrate this national recognition of his work and impact.
We’re Hiring!
(Applications for this position are now closed. Thank you to all applicants for your interest!)
We recently invited passionate individuals to join the team at the Center for Latinas/os and American Politics Research (CLAPR) at Arizona State University.
Applicants were encouraged to contribute to impactful research, support student career development, and engage with community-centered initiatives.
📩 Questions? Contact: Francisco Pedraza, Co-Director of CLAPR
The State of Latinos and Civic Engagement Report
This report highlights the vital role of Latino communities in American democracy, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement in today's polarized climate. It brings together expert insights and community perspectives to show how civic participation shapes social, economic, and political landscapes.
This report on Latino civic engagement is a part of the SoL series, which aims to offer well-rounded perspectives by bringing together both academic and community experts. The project highlights the importance of long-term university-community partnerships, ensuring that the insights are both evidence-based and rooted in real-world experiences. Through SoL, we aim to influence public policy while providing ASU students with hands-on experience in thought leadership and civic engagement.
Please find the report attached below.
Distinguished Speaker Series
CLAPR Research Award
CLAPR Announces Inaugural Award Winners
The Center for Latinas/os and American Politics Research (CLAPR) at Arizona State University is thrilled to announce the winners of its inaugural Award for Research on Latina/os and American Political Institutions. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional scholarship that examines the intersection of Latinx communities and American political structures.
This award highlights the vital contributions of Latinx scholars to our understanding of American politics. Join us in celebrating the achievements of these talented researchers.
Congratulations to the winners!
Featured
Why Latinos widely supported Arizona's tough, new immigration law
Arizona Latinos' stance on immigration shifted. They opposed SB 1070 (2010) due to racial profiling concerns but supported Proposition 314 (2024). Here's why...
How Donald Trump won more Latinos despite harsh immigration rhetoric
In the 2024 election, Donald Trump increased his share of the Latino vote in Arizona to 42%, up from 33% in 2020, despite his harsh immigration rhetoric. Economic concerns, particularly inflation and rising costs, were key factors driving this shift....
Gallego's Leadership on Migrant-Crime Law Puts Him in National Spotlight
Senator Ruben Gallego is gaining national attention for co-sponsoring the Laken Riley Act, a bill requiring DHS to detain undocumented individuals charged with specific crimes. In the article, Dr. Francisco Pedraza offers insight into the political strategy...
Course POS 494 : Latina/o Politics and Leadership in Arizona
Embark on a Journey into Latina/o Politics in Arizona!
Explore the dynamic landscape of Latina/o politics and leadership in Arizona with Adrian Fontes, Arizona Secretary of State, and Professor Francisco Pedraza. Dive deep into historical, contemporary, traditional, and non-traditional political issues. Learn strategies for effective mobilization and increased political participation.
Course offered for ASU students only!
Course Number: 494
Instructors: Adrian Fontes and Professor Francisco Pedraza
Location: ASU Sync(Attend live classes remotely via Zoom)
Schedule: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30 PM - 4:15 PM
Duration: March 11, 2024 - April 26, 2024 (B)
Enrollment Deadline: March 12
Register now to secure your spot and gain insights from prominent figures like Adrian Fontes and Professor Francisco Pedraza.
“A guiding idea that I’ve had with regard to my scholarship is that you cannot understand American politics without understanding Latino politics, and you cannot understand Latino politics without understanding American politics.”
- Professor Rodney Hero, Raul H. Yzaguirre Chair.