Mel Martínez

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Melquíades Rafael "Mel" Martínez (born October 23, 1946) is a Cuban-American politician and lawyer who served as a United States Senator from Florida from 2005 to 2009. He was also the 12th United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2003. Martínez is a member of the Republican Party.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Martínez was born in Sagua La Grande, Cuba. He immigrated to the United States in 1962 as part of Operation Peter Pan, a program that brought Cuban children to the U.S. to escape the Cuban Revolution. He lived with foster families until he was reunited with his family in Orlando, Florida.

Martínez attended Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1969. He then went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the Florida State University College of Law in 1973.

Legal Career[edit | edit source]

After completing his education, Martínez began practicing law in Orlando. He became a partner at the law firm of Wooten, Honeywell, Kimbrough, Gibson, and Martínez. He also served as the President of the Orlando Utilities Commission and was involved in various community organizations.

Political Career[edit | edit source]

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development[edit | edit source]

In 2001, President George W. Bush appointed Martínez as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. During his tenure, he focused on increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities, and addressing homelessness.

U.S. Senate[edit | edit source]

In 2004, Martínez ran for the U.S. Senate seat from Florida. He won the Republican primary and went on to defeat Democratic candidate Betty Castor in the general election. Martínez served in the Senate from 2005 to 2009. During his time in the Senate, he was a member of several committees, including the Senate Committee on Armed Services, the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, and the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

Martínez announced his resignation from the Senate in 2009, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. He was succeeded by George LeMieux, who was appointed by then-Governor Charlie Crist.

Post-Senate Career[edit | edit source]

After leaving the Senate, Martínez joined the law firm DLA Piper as a partner. He has also served on the boards of various organizations and companies.

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Martínez is married to Kitty Martínez, and they have three children. He is a practicing Roman Catholic and has been involved in various charitable activities.