Even though immigration gets all the attention, Latino voters consider education and the economy to be more important says a survey of over 1,400 voters who likely will participate in the November elections. The survey was taken in five states’ that have large populations of Hispanic residents.

Among likely Hispanic voters, jobs and the economy was the most important issue, while education was second. Residents participating in the poll were from Nevada, New Mexico, New Jersey, Florida and Arizona.

The American Federation for Children and the Hispanic Council on Reform and Educational Options both collaborated to make the survey on Attitudes of the Voters towards Education. Both advocate for public monies to pay for charter schools and for the expansion of the use of school vouchers.

The survey also included overwhelming support for both programs. Over 66% of those that answered the survey said they felt that competition and choice amongst schools helps to improve education. Only 25% of them said they felt it hurt education.

Many educational leaders, both American and Hispanic, have urged politicians, especially those running for the U.S presidency, to announce their stance on education and make it part of the debate during this campaign.

The population in general also feels it is important to try to improve the quality of education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Immigration was also behind, in the realm of importance, to jobs, the economy and even with reducing the federal deficit according to the recent poll.