Mel Martinez Replaces Jeb Bush Leading USGLC's Florida Efforts

Former U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez, R-Fla., is replacing former Gov. Jeb Bush as the co-chairman of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalitions (USGLC) Florida Advisory Committee. The USGLC is backed by 400 businesses and nonprofits and supports more federal funding for the State Department and foreign affairs, greater support for Israel and an active foreign policy.

Its clear that active U.S. engagement in the world is great for Florida, our residents and our economy. It has been rewarding to work with the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition in strengthening our state and our countrys vision for American leadership, said Bush on Tuesday. With his strong record of leadership and public service, Mel Martinez will be an exceptional leader for this important organization.

With our world-class ports and gateway location to Latin America and beyond, our state doesnt just tolerate internationalism, we embrace it, said Martinez. With so much going on in the world today, its important that Americans understand the benefits staying engaged in the world brings to our country, and to the state of Florida.

Martinez will work with former Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, and outgoing Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford on the advisory committee.