Susana Martinez

“The criminal justice system should have the authority to determine the immigration status of all criminals, regardless of race or ethnicity, and report illegal immigrants who commit crimes to federal authorities.”

“I hope I've been able to show other young girls that as long as you work hard and you're committed to fight for your education, that anything's possible.”

“Success, they taught me, is built on the foundation of courage, hard-work and individual responsibility. Despite what some would have us believe, success is not built on resentment and fears.”

“Our laws are too lax, our justice system too weak - particularly when it comes to violent, dangerous offenders.”

“I've always known that my father's father and grandfather and grandmother were from Mexico. I've never denied it. I've always said it.”

“Success is the American Dream. And that success is not something to be ashamed of, or to demonize.”

“I think politicians nationwide have earned a reputation sometimes that is very unfavorable because they will say things and then do something else when they get into office.”

“It's extremely important that we elect people that look like the population they serve.”

“New Mexico's agricultural economy is primarily composed of dairy and range livestock production.”

“I do think we do have to respect the position of the presidency.”

“New Mexico is an environment where we are open for business.”

“I don't think there's ever a silver bullet to any problem. There are always several answers and solutions to a problem.”

“Sometimes you pay a price for standing up.”

“New Mexico should be a tech jobs leader and a haven for innovation, a place where the best and the brightest come to bring their products to market.”

“I have to deliver the results I promised because, as the first Hispanic female governor, I'm going to pave a path of some kind. I want it to be one that little Hispanic girls will want to follow.”

“As the first Hispanic female governor in history, little girls often come up to me in the grocery store or the mall. They look and point, and when they get the courage, they ask 'Are you Susana?' and they run up and give me a hug.”

“You want to earn the vote of every single person you can... It doesn't matter whether individuals are in need of assistance of the government or individuals who are in college; it doesn't matter.”

“I know what not being able to read can do to a child's confidence.”

“Certainly, cutting spending is one of the things that can transcend to the federal government. I mean, I think the federal government has grown by leaps and bounds, and they need to look where do they need to cut.”

“I absolutely advocate for comprehensive immigration reform.”