Current Hillsborough County Commissioner Jim Norman picked up a nice endorsement of his D-12 state Senate Republican primary campaign against current state Rep. Kevin Ambler on Wednesday.

Former Gov. Jeb Bush said in a release that he supports Norman's candidacy.

"Since we walked door-to-door in my first campaign for governor, I have worked with Jim to advance conservative solutions to the challenges Florida has faced," Bush said in the statement. "Jim is a conservative leader who will fight to strengthen Florida's economy, advance education reform and do what's right for the people of Florida."

Norman giddily had hinted at a major announcement Wednesday on his Facebook page. This apparently is it.

"I am honored to have Jeb's endorsement of my campaign," Norman said in the release. "As I walk neighborhoods across the district, I am often asked if I have his support. Obviously, this endorsement means a lot."

The District 12 seat represents part of northern Hillsborough County and central and eastern Pasco County.

Bill Varian, Times staff writer

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