After Criticizing Romney-Ryan Budget, Governor Martinez Avoids Appearing with Mitt Romney During His First Visit to New Mexico

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, August 23, 2012

CONTACT: Matt Ross (505) 263-4879

Albuquerque, NM – Democratic Party of New Mexico Chairman Javier Gonzales issued the following statement today after Governor Susana Martinez avoided appearing with Mitt Romney during his first visit to New Mexico:

“After publicly stating she disagrees with parts of the Romney-Ryan budget, Governor Martinez made a smart move in avoiding appearing alongside Mitt Romney and his failed energy strategy today in Hobbs. Despite being slated for one of the top speaking slots at the Republican National Convention (RNC), Governor Martinez is distancing herself from Romney in her home state. That’s because she understands the devastating impact that the Romney-Ryan budget would have in New Mexico.

“Governor Romney’s plan would give over $5 trillion in tax breaks to millionaires and billionaires on the backs of New Mexico seniors and the middle class. The health of over 300,000 New Mexico seniors would be jeopardized by Romney and Ryan’s reckless plan to end Medicare as we know it. To make matters worse, over 900,000 middle-class New Mexicans would be at risk for a tax increase under their proposals.

“Governor Martinez must understand that more budget-busting tax cuts for the wealthy and fewer rules for Wall Street – the same formula that benefited a few, but crashed our economy and punished the middle class – are not the solutions to move New Mexico forward.”

Background:

In a recent interview, Governor Martinez stated, "I disagree with parts of [Ryan's budget proposals]. I certainly want our labs to be strong here in New Mexico. I will communicate that should Romney and Ryan win. I want New Mexico’s labs to remain just as they are.” [Capitol Report New Mexico, 8/13/2012]

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