11/14/2006 7:21:00 PM
http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=76340kContact: Karen Finney or Damien LaVera, 202-863-8148; both of the DNC
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Following is a release from the Democratic National Committee:
Last week, Hispanic voters overwhelmingly rejected the GOP's failed agenda and divisive electoral strategies. Despite all their talk about reaching out to Hispanic voters, Bush Republicans have relentlessly pushed a radical, divisive agenda that has undermined opportunities for Hispanic families and scapegoated immigrants to win elections.
Now, by choosing a loyal Bush Republican like Florida Senator Mel Martinez as the next Chair of the Republican National Committee, Washington Republicans are telling Hispanic voters that they can expect more of the same from Washington Republicans. After all, Senator Martinez has been a loyal rubberstamp for President Bush's agenda, no matter how devastating it has been for the Hispanic community. And, when in came to his own comprehensive immigration reform amendment, Martinez couldn't even muster the political power to keep his colleagues from blocking real reform or stop them from using immigrants as scapegoats for political gain.
"Last week, Hispanic voters went to the polls and demanded a new direction for America because they have had enough of the Bush Republicans in Washington," said Democratic National Committee spokesman Luis Miranda. "From lower family income and an increasing number of families who lack health insurance, to voter suppression tactics and leaders who incite fear and division to win elections, the Hispanic community has paid a heavy price for the Republican Party's failed leadership. Now, by selecting a failed leader and loyal Bush Republican like Senator Martinez to chair the RNC, Republicans are signaling their commitment to stay the course with their failed, discredited agenda.
"Republicans don't need a new messenger; they need a new agenda, one that puts working families first and rejects the shameful tactics employed in last week's elections. Democrats are committed to providing that leadership and expanding opportunities for all our families."
more on Martinez record:
http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=76340http://journals.democraticunderground.com/bigtree