Mack Beats Weldon In GOP Race, Faces Nelson

MERRITT ISLAND, Florida -- U.S. Congressman Connie Mack (R-FL) handily beat former U.S. Congressman Dave Weldon in the August 14, 2012 Florida Republican Primary for U.S. Senate 58.7% to 20.14%.  

Weldon formerly represented Florida's Space Coast and beat Mack 58.73% to 27.45% locally in Brevard County, Florida.  Weldon had voted for the TARP bank bailout prior to leaving office while Mack voted against the bank bailout which earned Mack the support of Florida Tea Partiers and the endorsement of U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY).  Weldon, who was unwilling to acknowledge defeat early in the night, left the following succinct message on his campaign website this morning: "Thank You."

“Tonight, the election has begun in earnest. Florida’s Democrats have chosen Bill Nelson as their nominee. And I am honored that Florida Republicans haven chosen me as theirs," said Mack.  “It's a clear choice and I am confident Florida will choose Mitt Romney and give the new President a Senator who he can work with and who shares his values.   We must give Mitt Romney a new Senate majority and the nation knows the 51st seat depends on victory in Florida. And with that victory, we will move America forward."

Mack will go on to face incumbent Florida U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) who easily won the Democratic primary last night 78.82% to 21.18% over challenger Glenn A. Burkett.  “The experts and the polls show this race to be very, very close.  Some polls show Bill Nelson ahead by a couple of points.  Some show me ahead by a couple.  Some show it absolutely tied," said Mack.

Nelson has gone on the attack claiming that "Connie Mack IV has been “a promoter for Hooters with a history of bar room brawling, altercations and road rage.”