The Rising Power of Mexican-Americans in Shaping America’s Future

Mexican-American Influence

A Dynamic Force in America

With over 40 million people identifying as Mexican-American, this community represents nearly 11% of the U.S. population. Rooted in two nations yet shaping one future, Mexican-Americans are transforming America’s economy, politics, and culture.

As someone who has worked on both sides of the border, serving as mayor of a border city in Arizona, Director of the Arizona Department of Commerce, and Chief of Staff at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, I’ve witnessed how binational connections fuel innovation and growth. Today, through Intermestic Partners, the international business advisory firm I founded in 2011, we help leading companies harness these cross-border dynamics to drive development and opportunity.

Economic and Cultural Impact

Mexican-Americans contribute more than $1 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. They power key sectors such as agriculture, construction, and technology—often not just as workers, but as entrepreneurs. Their growing consumer power, projected at $1.7 trillion, shapes products, advertising, and the direction of national markets.

Culturally, their influence is everywhere. Mexican food, music, and art have woven themselves into the fabric of American life. Traditions such as Día de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo have become symbols of multicultural unity and celebration.

If the U.S. Mexican-American economy were its own country, it would rank among the world’s top 15 economies—larger than countries like Spain or Mexico itself.

Political Power and Social Progress

Politically, Mexican-Americans are a growing force. They’ve become decisive voters in swing states like Arizona, Nevada, and Texas. Their collective voice is shaping debates on immigration, education, and energy policy, helping bridge divides between two nations that share far more than a border.

Still, challenges persist—inequality, discrimination, and barriers to opportunity remain pressing issues. But these obstacles have only strengthened the resolve and unity of a community that continues to define the American story.

The Road Ahead

By 2060, Hispanics will make up nearly 30% of the U.S. population, with Mexican-Americans as the largest group. Their impact on culture, commerce, and politics will only expand. Businesses and policymakers who engage this community now will be investing in America’s shared future.

At Intermestic Partners, we believe in unlocking the full potential of North American leadership by strengthening the bonds that tie our economies and communities together.

Call to Action: The story of America’s future is being written in two languages. Let’s build it together. Connect with Intermestic Partners to explore how binational collaboration can power growth and inclusion across borders.