A group called Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund began airing a radio ad in Orlando today questionning Sen. Mel Martinez’s commitment to Florida’s beaches and tourism industry.

"Senator Martinez has repeatedly claimed that he values Florida’s coastline, so we’re puzzled by the fact that he has authored a drilling deal that allows oil rigs in the Gulf and gives oil companies access to previously protected areas," stated Rodger Schlickeisen, president of Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund.

Last week, Martinez and senate leaders announced a bipartisan deal Wednesday to open much of the eastern Gulf of Mexico to oil and gas exploration, while providing significant protections for Florida's west coast over the next two decades.