Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas — Businessman Alonzo Cantu called on Rio Grande Valley leaders Tuesday to encourage voter registration and participation through the Advocacy Alliance Center of Texas, or AACT Now.
Cantu spoke during an AACT Now Rally the Vote luncheon attended by leaders from businesses, schools, health organizations, nonprofits and local governments.
The Edinburg luncheon was held on National Voter Registration Day. “The most important thing to remember is that we are a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization,” Cantu said. “While individuals may have their own political views, our work must remain nonpartisan.”
Cantu said the organization is not concerned with how people vote. Its purpose is to encourage eligible residents to register, vote, and help others participate.
“Our goal is simply to encourage as many people as possible to become involved in the civic process and exercise their right to vote, regardless of political affiliation,” Cantu said.
AACT Now reported that voter turnout across Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties was 48.5% in 2024. The organization said the counties ranked near the bottom statewide and established a regional turnout goal of 55% to 60%.
Cantu said increased participation could give the region a stronger voice when state leaders make decisions about infrastructure, highways, education and health care.
“If you want to change South Texas and be treated like the rest of the state, we need to vote,” Cantu said. “We don’t care how you vote. Just vote.”
AACT Now Executive Director Norma Flores Ruiz presented the Rally the Vote campaign and its Touch 10 initiative. The initiative asks participants to contact 10 people, provide accurate nonpartisan voting information, encourage them to make a voting plan, and follow up.
Flores Ruiz said AACT Now is building an outreach network through trusted organizations. Participating groups can identify ambassadors, distribute voter information, communicate with employees and connect the campaign with additional organizations.
Cantu encouraged attendees to use their workplaces and professional relationships to reach eligible voters. He asked participants to share Touch 10 cards and speak with people at banks, medical offices, universities, schools and other institutions.
AACT Now asked media organizations, advertisers and community partners to distribute public service announcements through broadcast, print, digital, social media and outdoor advertising. Its materials do not support or oppose candidates, parties or ballot measures.
“All we want is for you all to vote,” Cantu said. “If you want to do it, do it, and then bring some of your friends and bring some of your relatives.”
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