This post was written by Hatchet reporter Jeff Jacobson.

The newly-selected chair of the Democratic National Committee made her first public appearance since the announcement Tuesday, telling a group of College Democrats that Republicans will face election challenges in 2012 because of the party’s alienation of Hispanic voters.

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz said the GOP controlled statehouses may have the power to redistrict parts of the country, but that Democrats will still benefit from the higher percentage of Latino voters throughout the country.

“We’re looking to embrace all Americans,” Wasserman Schultz said. “I think we’re in great shape.”

She added, “Republicans haven’t exactly embraced Hispanic voters… [and] Democrats are the big tent party.”

The avid White House supporter said the Democratic Party needs to articulate its platform better for 2012 than it did for 2008.

“We have to be singularly focused on creating jobs and turning this economy around,” she said.

The Florida congresswoman said her tendency to be overlooked as a female politician encouraged her to work harder during her almost 20 years in office.

“Nobody was going to outwork me,” she said. “I might not convince you that I’m right every time…but I will never lose because I’ve been outworked.