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Mel Martinez resigns as HUD Secretary to pursue Florida senate seatAlphonso Jackson will replace himSEATTLE—December 15, 2003—Mel Martinez announced his resignation from President Bush's cabinet on December 9 to pursue a Senate seat from Florida. The Cuban refugee has been regarded as a front runner for this Senate seat throughout most of his term. In a brief statement Martinez said, "It has been a great privilege to serve the president's Cabinet and lead the 9,300 hardworking employees of HUD. President Bush understands the importance of our work and the many positive ways it is transforming families and communities. Together, we have extended homeownership opportunities to more Americans and helped countless others find affordable housing in communities of their choice." During the press conference, Jackson spoke briefly about his plans for the agency and his own viewpoints about his new position. "Our work at HUD defines the compassionate conservatism the President talks about often. HUD's mission calls on us to provide new opportunities and new tools to every American who seeks a better quality of life. And with our help and encouragement, many families can lift themselves toward prosperity. "I understand that journey in a very personal way. As the President said, I came from humble means, the last of 12 kids. My father, Arthur Jackson, juggled three jobs to keep food on the table. And even though he was not a high school graduate, he still managed to educate all of his children. Along with education, my mother and my father instilled in me early an important -- the importance of giving back. Today, I have been blessed with an opportunity to give back in a way I could never have imagined." Mr. Jackson's appointment must be confirmed by the Senate. |
