New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez made her debut on the national political stage.

Wednesday night, Martinez shared her story to millions of viewers of how she went from being a Democrat to a Republican.

Republicans hoping her story will influence the crucial Hispanic demographic to get on board with their party.

"I was a Democrat for many years, so were my parents," said Martinez, "Before I ran for district attorney, two Republicans invited my husband and me to lunch, and I knew a party-switch was exactly what they wanted. So, I told Chuck, 'We'll be polite, enjoy a free lunch and then say goodbye.'"

Martinez also said that success is the American dream, and only Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney can protect that dream.

New Mexico's governor has a lot of roots associated with the borderland.

She grew up in El Paso's Lower Valley and went to Riverside High School, but borderland residents are split on her decisions.

"I do not follow her platform," said Lower Valley resident Salvador Salcedo, "Also not once did she mention that she was from El Paso or that she was from riverside. To me that was sort of a blow on our city."

"She's actually someone to look forward to like somebody to look up to," said Central El Paso resident Jose Ortega, "I think she'll have the great a followers of Hispanic people."

In Wednesday's speech, she mentioned growing up as a middle class citizen to the leader she is now.