Martinez belongs to the genus of politicians who is more moderate than he was allowed to let on. His background in Central Florida was in non-partisan executive administration. He let consultants persuade him to turn into a conservative -- hey, he was impressionable and ambitious, but the clothes didn't quite fit right, and unlike his brother Republican, Charlie Crist, he didn't know how or when to pivot.
Martinez, born in Cuba, was thoroughly embarrassed by his party's position and tone on immigration but he was somewhat limited in what he could say about it, owing to his (then) job as party chair and his own re-election aspirations. Today, in defeat, his party is cocooning into a "not conservative enough" crouch, yards away from where Martinez stands.
Today, Martinez explained his departure:
"I thank all of those who helped me reach the highest elected office that an immigrant can hold in this great country. And I especially thank my family, who has supported me every step of the way - especially Kitty, who has sacrificed much more than me and without whom none of this would have been possible.Adam Smith of the St. Petersburg Times has a round-up of news and reaction to Martinez's announcement as well as a list of Democrats and Republicans who might be interested in the seat.
"Some might try to characterize this decision in terms of political affairs. Some will say a re-election campaign would have been too difficult. But I've faced much tougher odds in political campaigns and in life. My decision was not based on reelection prospects, but on what I want to do with the next eight years of my life.
"The thought of devoting more time to my roles as husband, dad, granddad, brother and son to the family I love and cherish, and to be "Mel" to the friends I miss - makes this decision far easier than one might think.
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