Jeff Atwater Backs Mike Haridopolos for U.S. Senate in 2012

Before being elected as state CFO in 2010, Jeff Atwater served as the state Senate president -- so its no surprise that he is backing current state Senate President Mike Haridopolos in the Republican primary to take on Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012.

Mike Haridopolos is the proven fiscal conservative in this race with a strong record of restraining and reforming government that is badly needed in Washington," said Atwater on Friday. "While others may talk the talk, Mike has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to tackle the tough issues and walk the walk. Mike Haridopolos has passed fiscally conservative policies that reduce spending, lower taxes, and provide the necessary certainty and stability to private-sector employers so they can start hiring again. I am confident that he is the candidate that will defeat Bill Nelson."

"It's a great honor to have the support of Chief Atwater in this campaign and I am humbled to have such a strong leader standing with me," said Haridopolos. "During the 2010 elections, no one received more votes statewide than Chief Atwater did and I am humbled that he has chosen to support me with as much vigor as Floridians supported him.