With Father Ailing, Marco Rubio Pulls Out of Meet the Press Debate

The campaign team of former House Speaker Marco Rubio, the Republican candidate in the U.S. Senate race, announced that its candidate will not be attending a debate scheduled for Sunday on Meet the Press with U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, the Democratic nominee in the race, due to his fathers poor health. Gov. Charlie Crist, who is running without party affiliation, chose to skip the event.

Unfortunately, the health of Marcos father, Mario Rubio, has significantly deteriorated in the last 48 hours, said Alex Burgoson Friday morning, a spokesman for the Rubio campaign. As a result, Marco plans to stay with his father and family during this time, and will be unable to participate in this Sundays debate on Meet the Press.

Mario Rubio is 83 years old and suffers from emphysema and lung cancer, added Burgos. We have informed both NBC and Kendrick Meeks campaign about our need to reschedule this debate, and appreciate their understanding and kind words for the Rubio family during this difficult period.