    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [December 2, 2008]
    [Page 1412]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senator Mel Martinez's Decision Not to Seek Reelection
    December 2, 2008

        Throughout his distinguished career, Senator Mel Martinez has been a
    wonderful public servant. Mel's life story is a testament to the power
    of the American Dream. Since immigrating to the United States from Cuba
    at the age of 15 as a part of Operation Pedro Pan, he has taken on big
    challenges and built a record of achievement.
        By becoming our country's first Cuban American Cabinet member as
    Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the first Cuban American
    United States Senator, he has been a source of inspiration to people all
    across our country. As general chairman of the Republican National
    Committee, he worked to strengthen our party and expand outreach to new
    audiences. In addition, he has been a passionate voice for freedom in
    his native country.
        Laura and I thank Mel for his leadership and
    friendship over the past 8 years, and we wish him and Kitty the best as he finishes his career in the
    Senate and afterward.