Staff
Marco Rubio, a candidate for the U.S. Senate and former state Speaker of
the House, spoke to a packed house at Lake City
Community College Thursday.
More than 30 Suwannee County residents attended the Columbia Federated
Republican Women's first fundraising event since organizing earlier this
year.
"Every time I hear Marco Rubio speak, I am more energized than before," said Sherri Ortega, State Committeewoman for the Suwannee County Republican
Party.
"His message is nothing new to everyone who holds our Constitution dear to their
heart. Freedom from big government control is what truly makes this country
great, and not having to apologize for having those principles is
refreshing," Ortega said.
Rubio is in the running against Florida Governor Charlie Crist for the Republican nomination in the 2010 Senate race. Though the underdog, Rubio has garnered considerable support since he announced his campaign back in May. A Quinnipiac University poll released Oct. 21 showed support for Rubio at 35 percent versus Crist's 50 percent. Those numbers were up for Rubio from 26 percent compared to Crist's 55 percent back in August.
Suwannee County supporters of Rubio were encouraged by his words at the Thursday gathering.
"Marco Rubio is a welcome change from the 'business as usual' politicians," said Cheryl Ann Jackson, a library staff member at Suwannee Elementary School.
"His conservative values, honesty and youthful energy are what our country
needs now."
