Sam Brownback Endorses Dave Weldon in GOP Senate Contest

While former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux dropped out of the Republican primary to challenge Democrat incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and threw his support to U.S. Rep. Connie Mack on Wednesday, one of the other candidates battling for the GOP nod showed signs of staying in the race.

Hours after LeMieux pulled out of the contest, former U.S. Rep. Dave Weldon announced that he was being endorsed by Gov. Sam Brownback of Kansas who was a staunch conservative during his time in the U.S. Senate and made a bid for the Republican presidential nomination during the 2008 election cycle.

Brownback praised Weldon for his conservatism in a statement on Wednesday.

"Dave will be a conservative hero in the US Senate, said Brownback. His expertise, sound principles and strong personal character will make him a uniquely effective advocate for Florida's values and interests."

Its truly an honor to have the endorsement of true conservative like Sam Brownback, said Weldon. Sam has been good friend and weve fought many battles for conservatism over the years. Like Sam, I realize our economic prosperity is inextricably linked to strong families. If elected I will fight for fiscal responsibility and remained engaged on all social issues because limited government and strong families made this country great.