Winter Park Mayor Ken Bradley, Businessmen Back Craig Miller

Craig Miller, the Central Florida businessman who is running for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012, announced his financial leadership on Tuesday.

Miller, the former CEO of Ruth's Chris and Uno Restaurants, unveiled the backing of Winter Park Mayor Ken Bradley, Republican activist Armando Gutierrez Jr., restaurant owner Gale Lemerand, businessman Doug Long, and Dick Rivera --another veteran of the restaurant industry.

Ive come to know these individuals over the years and consider each of them a friend, said Miller in a statement. Im honored that they have volunteered to take up leadership roles with my campaign. The five of them understand that our country cannot continue on its present path and they recognize whats at stake in next years election. Its time to send someone to the Senate who understands job creation and economic growth and is in touch with Main Street. With the help of Ken, Armando, Gale, Doug and Dick, our campaign is going to retire 40-year career politician Bill Nelson in 2012.

I am excited to support a veteran who knows the meaning of true service, said Lemerand in a statement. Im voting for Craig because hes the only candidate in this race that comes from a business background and understands how jobs are created. Craig Miller has a real record of accomplishment and isnt just another career politician. With leaders like Craig in the Senate, we can put our country back on the path to prosperity and undo the damage that politicians like Bill Nelson have done.