Happy St. Patty’s Day: Irish Republicans endorse Marc O’Rubio

The Irish-American Republicans (IAR), a 130-year-old coalition of Irish-Americans in the Republican Party, today announced their enthusiastic endorsement of Marco Rubio for U.S. Senate.

“Marco Rubio is a principled and effective leader who will help limit government, lower taxes, defend America and preserve our freedoms,” said IAR Regional Chairman Jim Bomford. “Marco Rubio has a proven record of public service and is a real patriot who will not only oppose big government disasters like the stimulus and ObamaCare, but also offer thoughtful, policy-based alternatives.

“Although we endorsed Charlie Crist for governor in 2006, we have been disappointed
by his support for wasteful stimulus spending, cap-and-trade, tax increases and his opposition to scrapping ObamaCare,” he added. “We trusted him to govern as a Jeb Bush Republican, but have been roundly disappointed by his stewardship of Florida.”

IAR National Chairman Grant Lally added, “The Irish-American Republicans are proud to endorse Marco Rubio for Senate. During this period of economic uncertainty, the Senate needs a leader like Marco Rubio who will courageously challenge Washington’s big-spending ways and ensure the next generation of Americans inherits a strong and prosperous nation.”In accepting this endorsement, Rubio said, “For over a century, the Irish-American Republicans have been an important part of the Republican Party’s heritage. I am honored to have their support in my campaign and wish all Irish-Americans in Florida and across the country a Happy St. Patrick’s Day.”

The Irish American Republicans are a national organization, originally organized in 1868 and chartered in 1880, dedicated to promoting the principles of the Republican Party, building Republican support among the 45-million-strong Irish-American community, strengthening relations between Ireland and the United States, and supporting the cause of justice and peace in Northern Ireland. The Irish-American Republicans’ Advisory Chairs include former Governor George Pataki (NY) and U.S. Senator John McCain (AZ), while its Board is comprised of Irish-American leaders from the business, political, media and legal communities.