Published: October 27, 2009 04:56 pm      

Senate hopeful Rubio makes a nearby stop

Supporters from Suwannee rallied in attendance

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."