By James Paladino (staff@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Aug 29, 2012 04:41 PM EDT

Ann Romney made a direct appeal to the Latino Coalition during a luncheon with the Latino Coalition following her speech at the Republican National Convention (RNC).

Considering that the Latino population has traditionally voted democratic in prior elections, Romney had this to say: "I feel that my importance in speaking out is making sure that those coalitions that would naturally be voting for another party: Wake up! You better really look at the issues this time, really look at your future and decide who is the guy who is going to make it better for your community and your children."

"I spoke to women. I wanted women to understand how important this election is for their children. As I was sitting backstage, I was thinking how important for the Latino community this election is. They are mistaken if they think they are going to be better off with Barack Obama as president. The simplest way I can say this, if Mitt Romney wins, America wins," she continued.

According to the United States Census Bureau, 22% of Florida's population is Latino. In order to win over the swing state, the GOP must appeal to the Hispanic community, something that Republicans are well aware of.

Al Cardenas, the chairman of the American Conservative Union (ACU) said that Republicans "have to appeal to every segment of the Latino community" if the party is to be "successful in Florida."

Mrs. Romney commented on the first lady of Puerto Rico, who introduced her to the stage, when she expressed: "It was my wish that she introduce me because I felt like we are a bit of kindred spirits."

Ann continued to voice her appreciation for the Latino community when she spoke of her trip to Puerto Rico.

""I have to tell you, I had the most rocking time in Puerto Rico at a political rally that I have ever had in my entire life," said Romney. "You people know how to party. It was crazy. It was a wonderful chance to peek into a culture, and vibrancy and energy and passion that I saw from that little island - that is really what represents the best of America. It is what you give to this country. A vibrancy. A color. A fabric of family and joy that anyone that's near your community recognizes that and feels it just coming from you," said Romney. 

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