'The Stakes Are Too High': Susana Martinez Endorses Rubio

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) scored the endorsement of the chairwoman of the Republican Governors Association, whose name is floated in some circles as a potential vice presidential pick.

Gov. Susana Martinez called Rubio “a compelling leader who can unite the country around conservative principles that will improve the lives of all Americans.”

“The stakes for our great country are too high — and the differences between the candidates too great — for me to remain neutral in this race,” Martinez added. “I wholeheartedly trust Marco to keep us safe and ensure a better tomorrow, and I look forward to campaigning with him later this week.”

Martinez will rally with Rubio at a Saturday event in Jacksonville, Fla., as the senator battles for his home state.

She is the first Hispanic woman governor in the country. At the 2012 Republican National Convention, she spoke about her experience growing up in El Paso, working as a security guard before getting her law degree.

Rubio also today picked up the endorsement of the Miami Herald, which called the “native son” the “best remaining candidate with a mostly positive message and a practical chance to win the nomination.”

“Donald Trump would have voters believe his campaign has gained unstoppable momentum, but a deeper look raises doubt,” the editorial board wrote. “Despite the big wins, Mr. Trump is not yet on track to secure the nomination, according to a delegate count by the Associated Press. Thirty-five states have yet to be heard from. His negatives remain very high, especially among important sectors of the electorate (80 percent negative among Latinos). In seven of the states up for grabs on Super Tuesday, he received no more than 35 percent.”

“Two of the states that haven’t voted yet are particularly important: Florida and Ohio, the nation’s biggest swing states, crucial for candidates who want to win the ultimate showdown in November. Both states still have a favorite son in the GOP race. Ohio Gov. John Kasich has remained above the fray throughout, avoiding the taunts and invective, but his poor showing in nearly every race makes him the longest of long shots,” the Herald continued. “Floridians have a better practical option close to home.”