Former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux, who is running in a crowded primary field of Republican candidates looking to beat Democrat incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012, unveiled his team in Broward County on Thursday.
For years, I have worked alongside these amazing people to further Republican causes in Broward County, LeMieux said in a statement. Broward County has always been a source of great influence in state politics and the people here know how to win elections. The support of my neighbors means a great deal to me and I am honored to receive their endorsements in my bid for the U.S, Senate.
LeMieux announced that he had won the support of Barbara Collier, who had chaired the county Republican Party and currently serves as the chairwoman of the Broward Christian Coalition. In her endorsement of LeMieux, Collier played up the former senators record on social issues.
"It is imperative any candidate I support has a strong pro-life, pro-family record, said Collier. That's why I am endorsing George LeMieux for U.S. Senate.George has already proven he will fight to protect the sanctity of life and I know he will continue that fight when he returns to the Senate."
While Collier focused on LeMieuxs social record, Broward County Commissioner Chip LaMarca praised his record on fiscal issues.
"At this critical time in our country, George LeMieux is the right man for the job, LaMarca said. George's record in the Senate proves he is a true fiscal conservative and will vote his conscience, and his Four Freedoms plan lays out a path to jump-start our economy and get Americans back to work. I am proud to endorse George LeMieux for U.S. Senate and I know he will serve Florida well."
LeMieux also garnered the support of four other former chairmen and two former vice chairmen of the Broward County Republican Party. Rep. George Moraitis, R-Fort Lauderdale, who announced back in September that he was endorsing the former senator, will also help lead LeMieuxs team in Broward County.
Other Broward County Republicans backing LeMieux on Thursday include three Coral Springs commissioners -- Vince Boccard, Tom Powers and Larry Vignola. Two Lighthouse Point commissioners -- Michael Long and Glenn Troast -- also backed LeMieux.So did Commissioner Javier Garcia of Hillsboro Beach, Commissioner Troy Samuels of Miramar, Councilman Steve Breitkreuz of Southwest Ranches, former Councilman Jerry Fadgen of Plantation, Councilwoman Susan Starkey of Davie and former Davie Mayor Tom Truex.
Besides LeMieux, other candidates for the Republican nomination include former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, retired Army officer Mike McCalister, and restaurant executive Craig Miller.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.
