Martinez Gets Key Spot For Speech

Gov. Susana Martinez is getting a key, prime-time speaking slot at next week’s Republican National Convention in Tampa, taking the stage immediately before the convention’s keynote address, convention organizers said Tuesday.

Martinez’s podium invitation already had been announced, but the specific speaking assignment was only revealed Tuesday. The speaking slot, second only to keynoter Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey next Tuesday night, is traditionally reserved for party stars.

“Gov. Martinez has an inspiring story and will focus her remarks on what needs to be done to keep the promise of America for the next generation,” Martinez adviser Jay McCleskey said Tuesday.

In 2008, former presidential candidate Mike Huckabee spoke just before the convention’s keynote address.

New Mexico political analyst Brian Sanderoff said slotting Martinez immediately before the convention keynote is likely a calculated attempt by Republicans to engage undecided voters.

“They’re showcasing Susana Martinez as a conservative governor who is both Hispanic and female,” Sanderoff said.

Martinez, a former prosecutor, is the first elected female Hispanic state governor. Nikki Haley, the first female governor of South Carolina, and Condoleezza Rice, the first black woman to serve as secretary of state, also are expected to be featured prominently at the Republican convention.

Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus said in a statement Tuesday that the day’s convention theme “will honor the fact that it is the drive, determination and sacrifice of America’s job creators and millions of hardworking American men and women who made the United States the exceptional nation it is.”
— This article appeared on page A1 of the Albuquerque Journal