Castro Regime Pitches a Fit Over HUD Nominee Martinez

The official Cuban "news" agency Prensa Latina said that Martinez's nomination was a "payback" for "the help [Bush] received from Cuban Americans in Florida, who helped him defeat his Democratic rival, Albert Gore."

Prensa Latina described Martinez as "a rabidly anti-Cuban Republican" and "an unconditional ally of the Bush family" who is "one of the political hacks in Florida's Cuban communities."

The Cuban "news" agency claimed Bush "stole the election, an act of fraud that bore the fingerprints of the extreme right of Florida's Cuban community."

Martinez's nomination, according to Prensa Latina, settles "Bush's debt of gratitude toward [Florida Cubans], the only Hispanics who voted in bloc against Gore because the Democratic administration authorized the return to Cuba of the kidnapped boy Elian Gonzalez."

Martinez had demanded that the Clinton administration allow the boy to remain free in the United States.

Martinez arrived in the United States at the age of 15 as a Cuban exile and lived in foster homes before being reunited with his family.

He is chairman of the Orange County, Fla., Board of Commissioners. He also served in top positions with the Orlando Utilities Commission and the Orlando Housing Authority.

Bush said Martinez is a "perfect pick" to run HUD. Martinez said the nomination fulfills his American dream.

Martinez vowed to work hard to make sure all Americans have "affordable housing."

While Martinez's nomination infuriated Cuba, it pleases the National Association of Home Builders.

NAHB President Robert Mitchell said Thursday, "Given his experience in dealing with growth management issues and his inclusive approach to identifying sound smart growth policies, Mel Martinez is well suited to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development."

Mitchell said the appointment sent a clear message that Bush "is committed to pursuing a housing policy that will promote affordable homeownership and rental opportunities for all Americans."

Martinez still must be confirmed by the Senate.

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