A public servant driven by conviction

Edgar Flores is a senator in the state of Nevada, United States. Here, state senators serve part-time; they convene once every two years for five months to fulfill their duties. Their salaries are proportionally lower than those received by public servants in other places, averaging around nine thousand dollars every two years. This is why Edgar believes that political work of this nature is a commitment to the community. For him, this structure fosters genuine public service among those interested in this role, as it is not the lure of a high salary that draws them to it but rather a conviction to serve their community.

Edgar serves a community of about 150,000 people. It is part of Nevada’s second Senate district, which encompasses Downtown Las Vegas, parts of North Las Vegas, and Sunrise Manor in Clark County. This is the only Senate district in Nevada where most of the population is Latino/Hispanic. It is no coincidence that this district has a poverty rate more than double that of the rest of the state, and the percentage of registered voters is the lowest in Nevada.

Edgar believes that traditionally, the Latino community, like his father and mother and many families, has come to the United States to focus on work. He feels it is also necessary to evolve this mindset, as such an approach leads to a belief that one must give everything and expect nothing in return. For Edgar, there must be a reciprocal relationship—not just regarding salary, but also in gratitude towards the community that is sacrificing and contributing so much. This reciprocity should ensure that this community can also provide their families what they offer in their work, such as to tourists: access to housing, healthcare services, quality education, etc. Many people in the United States lack access to these essential services. For Edgar, fighting for these conditions is his obligation as a senator of Nevada. In addition to employees, he believes the Latino community should have leaders, entrepreneurs, and business owners—people from the community who are employers and not just employees.

He points to the creation of a training program for youth aimed at political leadership and public service positions, such as senators, assembly members, and representatives. Among the essential questions to address are the costs of a campaign, the necessary paperwork, how to compete, and how to make an impact in a political career.

Another achievement he identifies relates to a program in the United States for teenagers under 21 who have suffered abuse or abandonment in their home countries and are currently in the U.S. If someone takes guardianship of these individuals, they may eventually apply for residency. Edgar identified an obstacle to completing this process in the state: Nevada courts refused to certify the documentation required at the federal level. A rule required judges to approve the documentation so these teenagers could proceed with their federal applications.

Another program in Nevada called the Driver Authorization Card allows individuals to obtain a driver’s license even if they do not have a Social Security number. This essential documentation can positively impact the lives of undocumented individuals, enabling them to perform crucial tasks like transportation to work and improving their livelihoods.

Edgar acknowledges the contributions of his colleagues in consolidating these efforts. For him, the creation of regulatory frameworks designed explicitly for the needs of the Latino and migrant communities is significant.

The migrant community’s demands to political leaders include access to education, capital for investment, better wages, adequate healthcare, and the fight against corruption. These conditions have motivated or even forced people to leave their home countries. The senator believes that no one leaves their roots and family willingly.

Migrants come to the United States seeking the opportunity to work to support their families; they do not expect anything for free. In Nevada, in particular, the Latino community is hungry for entrepreneurship.

In this regard, access to banking is another sector with significant limitations for the migrant community. This puts them at a disadvantage when starting their businesses. “If someone wants to open a McDonald’s,” Edgar states, “the loan is approved quickly. However, if someone wants to open a taquería, it becomes complicated because bank personnel are not familiar with the needs or processes of these businesses.” Edgar fights to facilitate the community’s access to banks and government loans, emphasizing that the community is diverse. This diversity should be reflected in Nevada’s businesses—different customs, dishes, various business styles, and different tastes and needs. This representation of the community’s diversity in business would benefit the state’s economy.

Senator Edgar knows what he is talking about. In Las Vegas, there is a market called Broadacres Marketplace, filled with stalls selling clothing, food, fruits, sweets, hygiene and beauty products, electronics, toys, etc. The Mexican influence is undeniable. Many individuals start their first businesses here and learn the basics. Edgar’s family began there, selling ceramics and shining shoes. That is how he learned the fundamentals of business.

In the lead-up to elections in the United States, the political participation of migrant communities has historically been low. People have focused on working hard to get ahead, with a mindset directed toward that goal. For Edgar, in addition to economic contributions, it is also vital to have political power. There are different ways to achieve this; the first might involve placing someone from the community in a position of political power and decision-making. The second is voting and being politically active. In the mindset of a political figure, if a community votes and participates, those in public office will be compelled to engage with the community. They cannot count on their votes if they do not support projects and initiatives. Conversely, if a community does not vote or participate, politicians will feel no obligation and have no interest in their needs.

It is essential to demonstrate the Mexican and Hispanic community’s political and economic power in Nevada—through opening businesses, supporting a candidate, or making donations for campaigns.