CHARLOTTE, NC - New Census data indicates Latinos could play a critical role in the 2012 elections. This information comes out just as President Obama hits an all-time low with Hispanic support. And except for Texas Governor Rick Perry, Republican presidential candidates are taking a hard line on immigration. Does this mean an important voter bloc is up for grabs? 

"I love the music," said Chesterfield, S.C. resident Joan Pittman, as her and friends walked around the Latin American Festival in SouthPark.

Based on the long lines at food stands, attendees also loved the variety of Latino food. "It's nice to get out and experience other cultures," said Pittman.

For 17-year-old Sarah Rubinstein, she's a child of two cultures. With an American father and a Peruvian mother, she embraces what the Latin American Festival represents.

"It's a little like getting immersed," said Rubinstein. "You know, instead of being everyday where it's mostly English, here it's mostly Spanish."

And because she turns 18-years-old several months before the presidential election, it will be her first time to have a voice in politics.

"I'll be voting for the candidate that represents my beliefs," said Rubinstein.

And she won't be alone, as Hispanics increase in voter importance. They made up 7% of voters in the 2010 congressional races. That's the highest percentage ever in non-presidential years.

That's one reason why Mayor Anthony Foxx, running against Republican Scott Stone, attended the Latin American Festival. He was out shaking hands with potential supporters.

"We can't afford not to pay attention to the Hispanic voices in our community."

Candidates at the local and national level understand Hispanics care about issues like jobs and the economy, just like everyone else.

"So, if they don't attend to those needs," said Jennifer Geyer from the Latin American Coalition, "the voters will go which ever way they feel will be supportive."

But Hispanics are also following the national debate on immigration. With the exception of Texas Governor Rick Perry, Republican presidential candidates are taking a hard line on this issue. However, this doesn't mean Democrats get the Hispanic vote automatically.

President Obama campaigned on reform in 2008, but many Latinos feel he hasn't fulfilled his promises. The latest Gallup poll finds 48% of Hispanics approve of the way Mr. Obama is doing his job. That's a low mark since the President took office.

While immigration will not be the sole reason why Hispanics vote, they are expected to be politically informed on where candidates stand on all the issues.

"Well, everyone needs to be informed because we all make up one community," said Pittman.