George LeMieux Unveils Support in Orange County and First Coast

Former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux, who is running for the Republican nomination to challenge Democrat incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in November, unveiled the support of former Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty and former Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton on Tuesday.

I am honored to have the support of Mayor Rich Crotty, said LeMieux. Mayor Crotty has been a leader in reshaping our economy to a knowledge-based economy to provide good jobs for Central Floridians.

With high foreclosure and unemployment rates, Central Florida is facing real problems and we need a senator we know will offer serious solutions, said Crotty.George LeMieux proved his abilities while serving in the U.S. Senate. When George returns, he will fight for Central Florida to get us back on track.

LeMieux also praised Peyton.

From his efforts to foster early-childhood reading to his promotion of an environment for job creation, Mayor John Peyton understands that strong communities help strong businesses thrive, said LeMieux. I am proud to have Mayor Peyton on our team.

While in the Senate, George LeMieux was a friend to Jacksonville and I know he will continue to fight for our great city when he returns, said Peyton. George also understands business and recognizes the crippling effect budget deficits and a growing national debt have on our economy and our future.He will work to cut wasteful spending, remove burdensome regulations and red tape, while keeping taxes low. Jacksonville businesses need an ally in Washington and that's why I'm endorsing George LeMieux for U.S. Senate."

Neither LeMieux nor his chief rivals for the GOP nod -- U.S. Rep. Connie Mack and businessman Mike McCalister -- have many ties in Orange County or the First Coast. Look for the Senate candidates to continue their efforts in both regions. Back in January, LeMieux unveiled his team on the First Coast-- and Peyton, who served two terms as mayor and whose family is well respected in Jacksonville for their work with Gate Petroleum, is a solid addition to it.