Mel Martinez told friends and supporters in an e-mail today that he's resigning from the Senate as soon as a replacement can be appointed. (He had already said he wouldn't seek a second term in 2010)
"My priorities have always been my faith, my family and my country and at this stage in my life, and after nearly twelve years of public service in Florida and Washington, it’s time I return to Florida and my family," he said in the e-mail.
In an extraordinary turn of events, Gov. Charlie Crist, the leading Republican to replace Martinez in the U.S. Senate, will have the power to appoint someone to fill the remainder of Martinez's term. Sources say Crist is unlikely to appoint himself -- but is expected to make an announcement before the end of the August recess when the Senate returns to Washington. Some names already surfacing: former Sen. Connie Mack, former Gov. Bob Martinez, and former Secretary of State Jim Smith.
Democrats may see opportunity in an early exit: they're likely to suggest parallels with former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who was widely assailed for resigning early. And they may use Martinez's retirement to suggest tension between Hispanics and the GOP. The first Cuban-American senator, Martinez was among only 9 Republican senators who voted for Sonia Sotomayor, and he sparred with party leaders over immigration reform. His election as chair of the Republican National Committee drew protests from the base and he left the post after a short stint.
His statement after the jump.
Because you’re a friend, I wanted you to know first about the decision I will announce today to step down from public office. Twelve years ago I offered myself as a candidate for public office in Florida out of a deep sense of appreciation for what America and the people of Florida did for me as a young immigrant to this country.
"In 1997, Kitty and I decided it was time to give back and we entered the public arena, first as Mayor of Orange County, then as a Member of the President’s cabinet and now as a United States Senator. Through those experiences I have gained the greatest respect for the people of Florida and have enjoyed serving their interests. When I began my term as Senator, I promised I wouldn’t simply warm a seat; I promised to take on the difficult issues and work to make a difference.
"Keeping that promise has meant pressing for help and assistance for families struggling to keep their homes, their jobs, and their confidence that our country is safe. And on that note, I am especially grateful to the men and women of our military and their families whom I have had the distinct honor of representing in Washington and I thank them for their service to our country.
"As a US Senator, I have also had a platform to speak against the oppression of the Cuban regime and my hope for a better future for the people of Cuba. I will continue that lifelong passion in the next phase of my life. I will always be grateful to the people of Florida for bestowing on me the singular honor of representing them in the United States Senate.
"My priorities have always been my faith, my family and my country and at this stage in my life, and after nearly twelve years of public service in Florida and Washington, it’s time I return to Florida and my family.
"So today I am announcing my decision to step down from public office, effective on a successor taking office to fill out the remainder of my term. I have enjoyed my time in the Senate and have the utmost respect for my colleagues and the institution. I especially thank Republican Leader Mitch McConnell for his guidance and insight."
I'm sure he is a very nice man, Don't let the door hit you in the A$$ on the way out, RINO. Another one bites the dust, and another one gone, and another one gone, another RINO bites the dust!!!!
Posted by: mickeybutane | August 12, 2009 at 09:11 AM