So much for staying on the sidelines. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, endorsed Charlie Crist for the Senate, minutes after the governor announced his candidacy. Not a good day for Marco Rubio.

“I am pleased today to endorse Gov. Charlie Crist for the United States Senate. With his record of reform in Florida, I know that Gov. Crist will bring a fresh perspective to Washington in our efforts to fight for lower taxes, less government and new job creation for all Americans. Charlie Crist is a tireless advocate on behalf of all Floridians and one of only three Governors who earned an ‘A’ from the CATO Institute for his efforts to restrain spending and cut taxes last year," Cornyn said. 

“While I believe Marco Rubio has a very bright future within the Republican Party, Charlie Crist is the best candidate in 2010 to ensure that we maintain the checks and balances that Floridians deserve in the United States Senate. Gov. Crist is a dedicated public servant and a dynamic leader, and the National Republican Senatorial Committee will provide our full support to ensure that he is elected the next United States Senator from Florida.”

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