Statement by RPOF Chairman Lenny Curry on Thanksgiving

“During this time of thanks and reflection, I am most thankful that my wife and I have the opportunity to raise our children in Florida, the greatest state in our nation. I am also grateful to have the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, so that I may work with Governor Scott and leaders across the state to ensure that we continue to advance our vision of keeping Florida great. I am especially thankful that Floridians are getting back to work, with new data showing that more than 100,000 jobs have been added since January. While we still have more work to do, Florida is headed in the right direction, and that is something we can all be grateful for today.”

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Statement by Adam Putnam on Newly-Elected RPOF Chairman Lenny Curry

Orlando, FL — Today, members of the Republican Party of Florida elected Lenny Curry as chairman. Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam issued the following statement:

“With my friend Lenny Curry at the helm, the Republican Party of Florida is well-positioned to continue to strengthen grassroots, increase momentum and make gains in the 2012 elections.

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RPOF: Memorial Services Set for RPOF Chairman David Bitner

TO: Interested Parties

FROM: Brian Hughes, RPOF Communications Director

DATE: September 9, 2011

RE: Celebration of Life Service for Chairman Bitner

On behalf of the Bitner family, please find the details for a gathering to celebrate the life of Dave Bitner, the Republican Party of Florida Chairman.

WHAT: Celebration of Life memorial services

WHEN: Thursday 3:00 PM, Sept. 15, 2011

WHERE: WC Dover Farms, 534 Dover Road, Havana, FL 32333

Additional memorial services will also be held at a later date in Port Charlotte, FL.

Gov. Scott and Chairman Bitner to Make Presidency 5 Announcement

Tallahassee, FL- Today, Governor Rick Scott and RPOF Chairman Dave Bitner held a joint conference call to announce the newly expanded Presidency 5 website that now allows Florida Republicans to apply to become a delegate to the straw poll.

“It is my honor to officially announce the expanded version of www.presidency5.com, the official website for the Presidency 5 debate and straw poll,” said Governor Rick Scott. “Florida continues to be the largest and most important swing state, and I anticipate all serious Presidential candidates to participate, making this another important chapter in the rich history of the Florida straw poll. This event will be a great economic boost to the state and give Presidential hopefuls the opportunity to discuss issues that matter to Floridians.”

Presidency 5 will be the biggest political event in Florida this year, kicking off the 2012 election cycle.

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RPOF: KEEPING PROMISES Fiscal Responsibility, Personal Freedom, Job Creation

Friends,

It has been awhile since my last e-mail so I wanted to give you an update on what has been going on in Tallahassee.

U.S. Senator Rubio

Today, Senator Rubio votes for H.R. 4, legislation to repeal the 1099 regulation contained in the ObamaCare health care law which he co-sponsered. Introduced by U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC), the legislation’s intent is to fully repeal the health care bill that President Obama signed into law on March 23, 2010. Read more at http://tinyurl.com/3tuh4ye.

Governor Scott:

Governor Rick Scott, along with Attorney General Pam Bondi, has created a new Drug Enforcement Task Force for Florida. The task force will serve as a helpful tool to local law enforcement agencies around the state by providing intelligence as well as investigative support. You can listen to Governor Scott discuss the Drug Enforcement Task Force in his latest weekly address at http://tinyurl.com/3b3ryhu

The Governor has also implemented part of his 7-7-7 plan by signing the Student Success Act into law. The new law will help ensure Florida classrooms have the highest quality teachers. It also will hold teachers accountable to their teaching by the performance of their students and replace tenure with annual contracts, keeping teachers effective. Read more about the Student Success Act at http://tinyurl.com/3frtsxs.

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Chairman Bitner’s Statement on Florida’s Republican Primary

Tallahassee, FL: Republican Party of Florida Chairman Dave Bitner released the following statement on Florida’s Republican primary.

“As chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, my primary concern is what is in the best interest of Florida and Florida Republicans. I commend our Legislature for standing up for Florida voters, by ensuring we have an early voice in the presidential primary process. Florida is one of the most economically and financially diverse states in the nation and provides the perfect litmus test for selecting the most viable Republican presidential nominee. As the largest swing state with 29 electoral votes, Florida is critically important to the 2012 presidential election.

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Republican Party of Florida Launches “Greatest Generation” Website

Tallahassee, Fl- Republican Party of Florida Chairman David Bitner announced the launch of the “Greatest Generation” site where both veterans of World War II and those who would like to honor them can get information on and sign up for “Greatest Generation” events in their area. … Continue Reading

Republican Party Of Florida Announces 2011 “Presidency 5″ Debate And Straw Poll

RPOF To Partner With FOX News To Host September Debate

Tallahassee, FL – Republican Party of Florida Chairman Dave Bitner announced today that the RPOF will host the Presidency 5 Straw Poll from the 22nd through the 24th of September, 2011 in Orlando, Florida. The Presidency 5 Straw Poll will be a critical test of grassroots support for Republican presidential candidates.

Additionally, RPOF is expanding the Presidency 5 Straw Poll to include a Republican presidential debate on Thursday, September 22nd. The Party will once again be partnering with FOX News to host the debate, which will give presidential candidates an opportunity to speak directly to Floridians, as well as the nation.

“I am proud to announce the details of this important event,” said Chairman Bitner. “Presidency 5 will give the candidates an opportunity to bring their message directly to the people of Florida while allowing voters to participate in a poll that has historically predicted the eventual Republican nominee for President. We are also very excited to partner again with Fox News on another critical debate that will kick off the 2012 election season.”

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RPOF: Nelson Watch: Senator Nelson’s Anniversary Present To Taxpayers- No Jobs and More Debt

Tallahassee, FL – Two years after President Obama charged the $787 billion stimulus package to the taxpayer’s credit card, Washington Politician Bill Nelson (D-FL) still cannot explain where the money went.

Bill Nelson sold the stimulus package as an investment that would create and save jobs. Today, Florida’s unemployment rate is lingering at 12%, leaving the taxpayers stuck with the bill and no way to pay for it. … Continue Reading

RPOF Chairman Bitner Demands Democratic Party Chairman Rod Smith Clarify His Statement On Fund Raising During Legislative Sessions

Tallahassee- Today, Republican Party of Florida Chairman David Bitner issued the following statement regarding Democratic Chairman Rod Smith’s comment on fundraising during legislative sessions.

“Chairman Smith should clarify his statement about fund raising activities during legislative sessions. Did he mean to say that Senator Bill Nelson will not be accepting any money leading up to, or during the federal legislative session? Will he also request that the Senator return any of the approximately 1.2 million dollars he has accepted from lobbyists during the legislative sessions since 2002?

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Save the Date: Miami-Dade County’s Lincoln Day Dinner With Congressman David Rivera And Honored Guest U.S. Senator Marco Rubio

Save the Date
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Miami-Dade County’s
Lincoln Day Dinner

With

Congressman David Rivera

Honored Guest
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio

And

A Special Surprise Guest

More Details to Follow

Contact Information:
Erik Fresen/ J.C. Hernandez
305.591.3840
Republican_party@bellsouth.net

Statement from Miami Dade County Republican Party Chairman Erik Fresen on the Passing of Amanda Ros

“On behalf of all the members of the Miami-Dade Republican Executive Committee and their families, I offer our deepest condolences to Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, her father Enrique and their entire family on the passing of Amanda Ros earlier today. Our hearts go out to the Ros and Ros-Lehtinen family in this difficult moment, as we offer them the support of our thoughts and prayers.”

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RPOF Announces New Executive Director

Tallahassee—Republican Party of Florida Chairman David Bitner announced today the selection of Andy Palmer as the Party’s Executive Director.  Palmer’s responsibilities begin immediately.

“I am pleased to announce that we have appointed Andy Palmer to serve as the RPOF’s Executive Director,” said Chairman Bitner.  “Andy is well qualified for this endeavor, with an outstanding work ethic, commitment to the job, and character.  I look forward to having Andy at my side every step of the way.” … Continue Reading

Statement by RPOF Chairman Dave Bitner on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

Tallahassee—Republican Party of Florida Chairman Dave Bitner released the following statement today regarding the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday:

“Today we celebrate freedom. In remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., community service projects across the nation allow Americans to ‘take the day on’ instead of taking the day off.”

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RPOF: After Voting For the Obama Agenda, Bill Nelson Now Lashing Out at Obama as His Election Nears

After Voting For the Obama Agenda, Bill Nelson Now Lashing Out at Obama as His Election Nears

TALLAHASSEE – Sen. Bill Nelson has been a reliable vote for the Obama Washington agenda of record spending and debt. He supported the failed “stimulus,” Obamacare, and countless other policies that Floridians rejected and have only resulted in higher unemployment, record spending, and record debt. Yet, now, with a reelection campaign on the horizon, Sen. Nelson is suddenly lashing out at President Obama.

According to the Politico today, “…typically mild-mannered Bill Nelson of Florida – lit into President Obama during an unusally tense air-clearing caucus session on Thursday… Nelson told colleagues Obama’s unpopularity has become a serious liability for Democrats in his state and blamed the president for creating a toxic political environment….”
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RPOF Congratulates Governor-elect Rick Scott on a Great Victory

RPOF Chairman John Thrasher issued the following statement on Governor-elect Rick Scott’s victory:

“I congratulate Governor-elect Rick Scott on a hard-fought victory. Millions of Florida voters spoke this election, and the message was loud and clear that they want a Governor who will be focused on jobs and the economy, keeping taxes low and making sure our kids receive a first class education. Rick’s extensive business experience, true outsider credentials, and 7-7-7 plan to help turn Florida’s economy around will be great assets in Tallahassee. His clear vision for Florida’s future was invaluable in this election and Floridians look forward to his leadership over the next four years. We have great challenges ahead, but I know that Rick will dive in immediately. Let’s get to work!”

Florida House Republicans Win 81 Seats

TALLAHASSEE – Speaker-Designate Dean Cannon (R-Winter Park) tonight congratulated House Republicans on winning 81 seats, giving the Republican House Conference a majority of more than two-thirds. En route to winning the 81 seats, Republicans defeated five incumbent Democrats.

“Tonight’s successes demonstrate the strength of our slate of Republican members and candidates and highlight the fact that Republican values of lower taxes, less spending and limited government continue to resonate with voters across the Sunshine State,” said Speaker-Designate Cannon. “I look forward to joining our returning members as well as our more than 30 new Republican members as we work to cultivate a fertile economic environment by shrinking the size and scope of government, empowering the individual, and promoting the family.”

Republican victories in incumbent Democrat seats include are as follows: Elizabeth Porter defeated Debbie Boyd (D-Newberry) in House District 11. Larry Ahern defeated Janet Long (D-Seminole) in House District 51. Jeff Brandes defeated Dave Heller (D-St. Petersburg) in House District 52. Ray Pilon defeated Keith Fitzgerald (D-Sarasota) in House District 69. Gayle Harrell defeated Adam Fetterman (D-Port St. Lucie) in House District 81.

Additionally, in a strongly contested race in House District 119, Republican Frank Artiles defeated Katie Edwards, retaining the seat previously held by Representative Juan Zapata (R-Miami) who could not seek re-election due to term limits.

“Maintaining the strong legacy of Republican leadership in the Florida House is critical as we work to address the challenges facing our state during these difficult economic times,” said Representative Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel). “The growth in our Republican majority will ensure that we can continue our work to keep taxes low and to foster an economic climate where businesses are encouraged to locate and expand here in Florida.”

“Our state is facing many challenges that will require difficult choices, and I am confident that our Republican majority will work to address those challenges in a conservative manner,” said Representative Chris Dorworth (R-Lake Mary) “I am honored to welcome our new members to the Florida House and looking forward to continuing to serve alongside my returning colleagues.”

RPOF Congratulates Pam Bondi On Her Decisive Victory Tonight for Attorney General

TALLAHASSEE – Republican Party of Florida Chairman John Thrasher issued the following statement on Attorney General-elect Pam Bondi’s decisive victory tonight:

“I congratulate Attorney General-elect Pam Bondi on a great victory tonight. Millions of Florida voters spoke this election, and the message was loud and clear in her favor. Pam will be an excellent Attorney General. Her experience as a prosecutor, outsider credentials, and passion for justice will be invaluable as she fights to uphold our constitutional rights and continues General McCollum’s fight against Obamacare, an oppressive federal mandate that will be a financial disaster for Florida.

“I look forward to working with General-elect Bondi, and I’m confident she’ll be an excellent public servant, an invaluable part of the Cabinet, and a great leader for Florida.”

RPOF Congratulates Agriculture Commissioner-elect Adam Putnam On His Decisive Victory Tonight

TALLAHASSEE – Republican Party of Florida Chairman John Thrasher issued the following statement on Agriculture Commissioner-Elect Adam Putnam’s decisive victory tonight:

“I congratulate Commissioner-elect Adam Putnam on a great victory tonight. Millions of Floridians voted this election and they showed overwhelmingly they want Adam to represent them. Adam comes from a fifth generation family of Florida farmers, and it shows. He has exceptional knowledge of the state, the people, our resources and the challenges we face. Florida produces world-class agricultural products and we need a leader like Adam to fight for Florida’s farmers – and work to sell those great products across the world.

“I look forward to working with Commissioner-elect Putnam and I’m confident he’ll be an excellent public servant, an invaluable part of the Cabinet and a great leader for Florida.”

RPOF Congratulates CFO-elect Jeff Atwater On His Decisive Victory Tonight

TALLAHASSEE – Republican Party of Florida Chairman John Thrasher issued the following statement on Chief Financial Officer-Elect Jeff Atwater’s decisive victory tonight:

“I congratulate CFO-elect Jeff Atwater on a great victory tonight. Millions of Floridians spoke clearly this election, and they know Jeff Atwater is the right man for the job. As a former banker and a well-respected legislator, Jeff Atwater’s experience will be crucial as he undertakes the considerable feat of cleaning up the Office of CFO after his predecessor’s disappointing record. With near 12% unemployment thanks to the Obama-Pelosi agenda, Jeff will be getting right to work to help turn our economy around and ensure fiscal responsibility in Florida.

“I look forward to working with CFO-elect Atwater and I’m confident he’ll be an excellent public servant, an invaluable part of the Cabinet and a great leader for Florida.”