McCollum
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Legal Newsline) - Former two-term Florida Gov. Jeb Bush has thrown his support for the state's upcoming gubernatorial election behind Attorney General Bill McCollum.
"Tough time requires proven leadership," Bush said in an endorsement video. "Bill McCollum is a principled conservative with a record of doing what's right for Florida."
McCollum's only serious opposition in the Republican primary is businessman Rick Scott after the withdrawal of state Sen. Paula Dockery from the race.
"Governor Bush and I share the belief that, during these challenging times, what Floridians are really looking for is proven leadership and a clear vision for how to tackle the challenges we face head on with real solutions," McCollum said in a statement, Examiner.com reports.
"We also share a passion for policy, an unwavering commitment to limited government and personal responsibility and, above all, an optimism about what the future holds for our families and businesses when we make decisions based on principle, not politics."
McCollum is leading in the polls against Democrat Alex Sink.
McCollum was an officer in the United States Navy and Naval Reserve and served for 20 years in Congress before becoming Florida's attorney general.
"Our state is facing some of the most difficult short- and long-term challenges we have seen in decades," McCollum said.
"We need a leader who will tackle these obstacles and turn them into opportunities. We need to continue strong public policies that preserve a business environment where taxes are low, government red tape is minimal, and companies are encouraged to locate and expand in the Sunshine State."