Lambda Theta Phi brothers winners on Election Day 2004

NEW JERSEY, November 3, 2004 - In the state where Lambda Theta Phi, the first nationally recognized Latino fraternity in the country was founded, two of its members garnished decisive political victories in New Jersey. Robert Menendez and Jorge Diaz came out winners in their congressional and city council races, respectively.

Robert Menendez, who joined the fraternity in 1985, began his political career in Union City, NJ, winning not only the mayorship, but seats in the State Legislature before going onto congress. His recent victory marks his re-election to New Jersey's 13th Congressional District, a post he has held for more than 10 years. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Democratic Caucus, is the 3rd-ranking Democrat in the U.S. House, and the highest ranking Latino in Congressional history. Since his Union City days, Menendez has enjoyed the enthusiastic support of individual Lambda Theta Phi brothers and, as he noted during the fraternity's 2003 National Awards Banquet, remains committed to supporting the Fraternity and its mission.

The election of Jorge Diaz to the Carteret, NJ City Council is particularly noteworthy, since it was his very first run for political office. One of two candidates elected to the Carteret Borough Council this week, 65% of those who voted cast one of their votes for Diaz. He was quick to thank the Lambda Theta Phi brothers who supported him. No stranger to fraternity support, this year Diaz completed an extremely successful two-term National Presidency of Lambda Theta Phi, and remains an active member of the organization. In addition, he was endorsed by a statewide organization that promotes the election of young leaders. Democrats 2000 has been remarkably successful in putting younger generation candidates in office and Diaz says he is both honored and pleased by the group's backing.

Although Lambda Theta Phi is a nonpartisan organization, it has a rich history of political activism and encourages its brothers to participate in the political process to the fullest. The members of Lambda Theta Phi wish both Congressman Menendez and Councilman Diaz much success in their respective posts.