Gov. Martinez Generating National V.P. Speculation

As she wrestles with a natural gas crisis back home, one of the lead stories in Politico today mulls the possibility of New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez becoming a Republican candidate for vice president in 2012.

The article surveys the field of contenders for the GOP’s number two spot in 2012 and Martinez is one of numerous possibilities mentioned. Martinez’s photo also takes front-and-center in the article.

Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who appears to be laying the groundwork for his own presidential bid in 2012, specifically mentioned Martinez as a potential running mate for a Republican presidential nominee.

Here’s the Politico passage that discusses the New Mexico governor:

“For a candidate who struggles to connect with women voters, Sen. Kelly
Ayotte of New Hampshire or Govs. Nikki Haley of South Carolina and
Susana Martinez of New Mexico might help broaden the GOP’s reach.
Martinez, along with Rubio and Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval, could help a
nominee who’s unappealing to Hispanics.

And if the nominee has trouble firing up conservatives, nearly all the
previously mentioned names would likely do the trick, as would a
prominent state leader such as Texas Gov. Rick Perry.

At least one 2012 candidate has openly talked up the strength of the
vice presidential field. During a visit to Washington last month, former
Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty pointed to Sandoval, Martinez and Haley as
strong potential running mates, along with Puerto Rico Gov. Luis
Fortuno.”

“There will be no shortage of great talent” for the vice presidency, Pawlenty said.”