Former U.S. Rep. Allen West, R-Fla., is handing off the chairmanship of his Allen West Guardian Fund PAC -- now no longer bearing his name -- to U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Ga.
"Congressman Loudermilk is the type of leader who can be entrusted with the future of our nation and inspire other servicemen and women to exercise their voices and talents on Capitol Hill," West said on Wednesday.
West left Florida to move to Texas to take over as CEO of the National Center for Policy Analysis. The former congressman, a favorite of the tea party movement and conservatives across the nation, noted that his new role prevents him from staying at the PAC.
Due to my new position as the CEO of the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) I cannot remain as the fund's chairman, West noted in an email to supporters sent on Wednesday. However, the Guardian Fund's mission remains steadfast and unwavering and will continue moving forward with new leadership in 2015. In saying farewell, I just want to thank the thousands of you who have loyally supported the Guardian Fund and all of its efforts over the years.
"The foundation laid by my friend Colonel West at the Guardian Fund is solid, Loudermilk said. With great victories like Tom Cotton, Joni Ernst, Mia Love and Steve Russell, to name a few, both the House and the Senate are more conservative. I welcome the opportunity to help continue the mission of finding and supporting principled conservative veterans and minorities. Strong leaders are essential to achieving the America we want to pass on to our children and grandchildren -- an America that is free, safe and full of opportunity."
Loudermilk, a former Georgia legislator who was elected to Congress for the first time last year, had the PACs backing in 2014.
Founded in 2012 after West lost his bid for a second term to Democrat Patrick Murphy, the PAC has backed almost 30 conservative candidates and raised more than $6 million. West ruled out a run for office in 2014 but has left the door open for a future try at federal office.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
