Univision Debate Not Getting Very Far

AP writes about Univision's voter-registration campaign, the New York Times reports on the latest about Univision's presidential debate (to be conducted in English according to this 'clarification') and the Washington Post features Eddie "El Piolin" Sotelo (the article reads like 'Mr. Tweety Bird Goes to Washington'). Plus the Ventura County Star reports the network is "bankrolling" assistance to immigrants in filling out their applications. And, of course, the network has been mentioned in the context of Governor Schwarzenegger's suggestion that Latinos turn off Spanish-language television.

Yet, the flurry of coverage (which is a novelty for Univision) combined with a direct plea have yet to translate into much attendance at the upcoming debate, which may end up being as empty as the boxes at Piolin´s press conference.  Boosting participation in the debate is clearly a priority for the network and the agency handling its media relations but the most popular candidates are not jumping at the offer. For many of the candidates, attending a debate sponsored by a Spanish-language network is apparently just too fraught with negative symbolism.

Take a peek in the comments section here for a mild taste of the online venom poisoning the prospects of Univision's presidential debate. (Or read here about Univision´s reach and about how Presidential Candidates Flunk Spanish.)