Mike Haridopolos Responds to News of RPOF Chair's Illness

It emerged Friday that Dave Bitner, who was elected chairman of the Republican Party of Florida in January, was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease.

Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, issued the following statement in support of Bitner and his family:

"Stephanie and I today send our love and support to Republican Party of Florida Chairman Dave Bitner and his wife Wendy. Chairman Bitner is a good man and I know hes prepared for the days ahead of him.

"During his short tenure as head of the Republican Party of Florida, Chairman Bitner has done an outstanding job of leading the party. I continue to support him as chairman and know hell lead the Republican Party through a very successful 2012 election cycle.

"More importantly, though, my prayers are with him and I know hell fight this upcoming personal battle with courage and the support of millions of Floridians," Haridopolos said.