Romney tells Hispanic voters: 'I care for the 100%'

MIAMI (AFP) - Sounding a note of inclusion that belied the socioeconomic tension coursing through the campaign in recent days, White House hopeful Mr Mitt Romney told Hispanic voters on Wednesday he would be president "for the 100 per cent" of Americans.

The Republican nominee, who trails President Barack Obama two to one among Latinos in the United States, also pledged that if elected he would create a permanent solution to immigration but would not "round up" undocumented workers for mass deportation.

Mr Romney made the economic argument that his policies in support of small businesses, education and training, and trade would serve Hispanic Americans better than Mr Obama. But it was his inclusive tone that highlighted key elements of his remarks.

"I care about the 100 per cent," he told viewers of Spanish language network Univision. "People in America are going to have a better future if they elect me the next president."