Susana Martinez wins New Mexico governor’s race

New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez rolled to a second term Tuesday, furthering her national reputation as a Republican who can appeal to Hispanics and voters who cross party lines.

Martinez said in a speech to supporters that she hoped her strong win would send a message that the state wants “leaders who choose to work across party lines and not point fingers.”

She also said her victory was personally important as the nation’s only Latina governor.

King’s campaign never gained traction against Martinez despite the state’s weak economy and nagging social problems, such as the nation’s second-highest poverty rate. King said, “we’re very dedicated to carrying on the fight.”

Martinez maintains that she’s uninterested in a national political office and has pledged to serve a full four-year term if re-elected.