New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez, who is sometimes mentioned as a possible vice presidential pick, is critical of Mitt Romney's stance on immigration.
Martinez's criticism of Romney's call for self-deportation is mentioned in a Newsweek article that was posted online yesterday.
"Self-deport? What the heck does that mean?" Martinez is quoted as saying. "I have no doubt Hispanics have been alienated during this campaign. But now there's an opportunity for Gov. Romney to have a sincere conversation about what we can do and why."
Romney has advocated that illegal immigrants in the USA should "self-deport" and leave the country voluntarily. He has often described a situation in which illegal immigrants would apply for legal status and wait their turn to come back legally.
Romney's plan on immigration includes a tamper-proof employment verification system. He is opposed to "magnets," such as driver's licenses and in-state tuition benefits for illegal immigrants.
Former Florida governor Jeb Bush, who has endorsed Romney, has been vocal about the GOP's need to moderate its tone and work to improve its standing with Hispanics. The election of Martinez, Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio in 2010 -- all Republicans -- was viewed as a plus for the GOP in their efforts to make inroads with Hispanics.
We finally have some tough policies on Illegal trespassing and this Gov. Martinez, Sen. Rubio, Jeb Bush, and others are going soft. Contact their offices and let them know you disagree. I had phoned both Sen. Rubio & Gov. Martinez.
Gov. Susana Martinez (505) 476-2200
Sen. Marco Rubio (202) 224-3041
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