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• Mel Martinez is a Republican Senator from the State of Florida. Martinez also served as the General Chairman of the Republican Party from 2006 to 2007. As a Cuban-American, Martinez represents a traditionally Republican voting bloc.International Herald-Tribune: Younger Cuban-Americans want a softer U.S. approach (April 29, 2008) He spoke prior to John McCain on the final night of the 2008 Republican Convention.

  In early December 2008, Martinez was expected to announce his retirement from politics following the end of his term as senator in 2010.WashingtonPost.com: Mel Martinez To Retire (December 2, 2008)

• Fast Facts:

  1. Born: October 23, Sagua La Grande, Cuba
  2. Alma Mater: Florida State University
  3. Spouse: Kitty Martinez
  4. Assumed Office: January 3, 2005
  5. Former Profession: Lawyer
  6. First Cuban-American to serve in the U.S. Senate
  7. Was the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under George W. Bush
  8. Announced retirement in December 2008, will not seek reelection in Senate in 2010WashingtonPost.com: Mel Martinez To Retire (December 2, 2008)

• Positions

  • In 2004, voted against government-sponsored abortion.
  • Supports constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage.
  • Voted against an additional $10.2 billion distribution for federal education programs.
  • Against redeploying non-essential U.S. troops out of Iraq.
  • Voted for comprehensive immigration reform in 2007.
  • In favor of a Guest Worker program.
  • Against granting the District of Columbia a seat in Congress.

• Related Pages on Mahalo

  U.S. Senate | U.S. House of Representatives | Cuba | 2008 Republican Convention | Fidel Castro | Republican Party

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