Martinez set to launch ads featuring Bush today

[Freddie Stubbs]

Brian E. Crowley
Tuesday, July 27, 2004



Mel Martinez's first political ads for the Republican U.S. Senate race, which will feature President Bush praising his former housing secretary, are expected to go on the air today.

The campaign was being officially coy in an effort not to tip off its rivals in the closely contested primary, but sources said former state GOP Chairman Al Cardenas will announce the statewide ad today in Tallahassee.

Called "Strong Conservative," the 30-second ad will be on the air today in Tampa and then quickly move into other television markets.

Martinez, who was Bush's Housing and Urban Development secretary, was recruited by White House political operatives to run for the Senate seat being vacated by Democrat Bob Graham, who is retiring after 18 years in the office.

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