Wild things happen in politics all the time – and that’s what Oscar De La Hoya hopes will push him to the presidency. The Mexican-American boxer announced his plans to run and challenge President Donald Trump in 2020.
“That’s the beauty of our nation,” he said, according to El Paso Times. “If Arnold (Schwarzenegger) can be governor, if (Donald) Trump can be President, then why can’t a Mexican-American who won an Olympic gold medal, who’s over 35 and a US citizen, run for presidency?”
ODLH confirmed the news (“It’s real,” he said) after rumors surfaced that he was getting ready to run for public office. He didn’t delve into his vision or any other details about running, but we’re certain that someone as beloved as ODLH will likely attract at least decent support. He already has the backing of former Mexican president Vicente Fox. “You are honored and respected all over the world. You are well known in California, supported by all which you’ve done,” he said, according to TMZ. “You are a fighter. You are a warrior. You do fight for human rights. You do protect and fight for Hispanics and Mexican Americans rights in the United States … that’s you, Oscar.”
Apparently, though, it’s not a decision Oscar arrived at impulsively. He’s thought of running for years, especially after many have tried to encourage him to seek public office.
“As I got older, I get wiser and as I get wiser, I get smarter and as I get smarter, I start to realize the millions and millions of people who’ve told me, ‘Oscar, why don’t you run for some kind of office? Because you can make a difference.’”