Adam Hasner Wins Pasco County Straw Poll

Former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner took 51 percent in the Republican Party of Pasco Countys straw poll Tuesday of candidates looking to challenge Democrat incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012. U.S. Rep. Connie Mack placed a distant second with 25 percent.

"I think today's results demonstrate that Florida Republicans are looking for a proven fighter with the record and ability to make the necessary changes needed to save our country, Hasner said in a statement late Tuesday. The coming elections represent a line-in-the-sand moment for America and more than ever we need leaders who won't go along to get along, but instead will faithfully work to forward limited-government solutions. It's not going to be easy and this election won't be decided by straw poll victories alone. But the road to changing Washington begins in town halls, straw polls, and small gatherings across Florida.

"I'd also like to thank Bill Bunting, Pasco County Chairman Randy Maggard, and all the activists who took part in today's straw poll, Hasner added. I was able to win due to tremendous support from the grass roots and their willingness to stand up against the tide. It's through their continued dedication that we'll unite our party around conservative principles, defeat Senator Nelson, and elect a conservative majority to the U.S. Senate."