In late 2003, Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte led ten other 
Texas Senate Democrats to New Mexico as part of a protest against 
a Republican redistricting plan. The walkout of the "Texas Eleven" 
made national headlines; it also deprived the state senate of a 
quorum and temporarily froze all legislative action.

    As Sharon A. Navarro shows in Latina Legislator, the dramatic 
boycott is a fitting image for Van de Putte's life and career. Though 
she initially ran for office on a shoestring budget, Senator Van de 
Putte has successfully authored and sponsored legislation that has 
reformed the state welfare system, revamped the Juvenile Code, and 
provided a healthcare safety net for children in Texas. Multiple civic 
and community groups have recognized her as one of the most 
effective and influential lawmakers in Texas.

    With Van de Putte as her central case study, Navarro assesses 
the possibilities for other Latina and all female legislators. Further, 
her analysis of Van de Putte's record provides a context for judging 
legislative effectiveness and productivity. This book is invaluable 
for those interested in Texas and regional politics as well as 
women's and ethnic studies.

_________________________________________________________

SHARON A. NAVARRO is assistant professor of political science 
at the University of Texas at San Antonio.


Number Thirteen: Rio Grande/Río Bravo: Borderlands Culture and 
Traditions