Do Tell

Via the Tufts Observer:

The new RNC chair is Senator Mel Martinez of Florida, who decided to keep his office and leave the day-to-day operations to the General Counsel. Martinez, who was elected to the Senate in 2004, was a controversial choice. Many conservative Republicans did not approve of the decision and proponents of a harder stance on immigration found an enemy atop the RNC. Martinez has strong ties to the White House and Karl Rove, but also holds a pro-amnesty view towards illegal immigration and is seen as an advocate for illegal immigrants. While his appointment may ameliorate the fears of many Hispanic Republicans, many conservative Republicans argue that his views do not represent the views of the people that make up the GOP. The issue could split the GOP more than it did in 2006.

Texas GOP did its very best re: Martinez

How often does the Republican Party of a Republican President's home state pass a resolution like this?

Another "inside" report on the Martinez nomination

Via John Gizzi of Human Events, "Despite Protests, RNC Accepts Martinez". Excerpt:

[I]t won’t be with enthusiasm that the RNC gives its approval to the Martinez-Duncan team. As one committee member arriving in Washington for the RNC winter meeting told me, “We’re like the Politburo in the old Soviet Union. We go along with what the White House wants when there’s a Republican living there. But that doesn’t mean we like it.”

The Martinez vote: an insider's view

Thanks to RNC National Committeewoman Denise McNamara. Hat tip: Sandra Crosnoe and Associated Conservatives of America. McNamara has her own regularly updated blog.

Well, that didn't take long

Republican National Chairman Mel Martinez told the Washington Times that "I don't support deporting these people [illegal aliens] because I don't believe that's a realistic approach." (You can read the interview here.)

Martinez said that "My election to the RNC was not about immigration. It's about the president's belief that my voice could help the party win elections." He also said "My views on immigration are not well understood." Perhaps.

Thankfully, Martinez admitted that "There is some anger out there at our party's grass roots. We have to show them we've heard their message loud and clear and that we understand it"

Here's a hint: every time someone telephones an office of the United States government and is asked to "press one for English," they get angry.

English classes for illegal aliens aren't the issue. Having our government address all Americans in English is the issue.