GOVERNOR BUSH ENDORSES BLACKWELL

COLUMBUS - Citing the Ohioan's bold agenda for job creation, Florida Governor Jeb Bush today announced his support for Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Ken Blackwell.

"Ken Blackwell understands two of the most important things a governor can do is create jobs and keep jobs," said Bush. "He has a clear and achievable agenda for both."

"Governor Bush has provided governors and future governors with a road map to economic prosperity through government and education reforms," said Blackwell. "We share similar visions for reforming Medicaid and expanding school choice. His endorsement of my candidacy is a great honor."

"Florida has a strong and growing economy because we challenged the status quo and moved forward with bold, brave ideas," added Bush. "Ken Blackwell's strong leadership and courageous initiatives will move Ohio forward."

Governor Bush is the third Republican governor to endorse Blackwell's candidacy. Texas Governor Rick Perry and South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford have previously extended endorsements.

Also, Blackwell has received endorsements from U.S. Senator John McCain (R- Arizona), U.S. Senator Sam Brownback (R-Kansas), former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, former U.S. Senator and Georgia Governor Zell Miller, and former HUD Secretary and vice presidential candidate Jack Kemp among others.

He also enjoys the support from Ohio Right to Life, Cincinnati Right to Life, the Republican National Coalition for Life (RNC for Life), Concerned Women for America, The Eagle Forum, Family First and Moms for Ohio.

In addition, Blackwell has been endorsed by the Fulton, Hamilton, Miami and Summit county Republican parties. In January, he reported the highest GOP fundraising totals in the last campaign finance period, out-raising his opponent by more than $700,000 in the last year. He leads all candidates for governor with over 12,000 individual campaign contributors, with an average gift of $167.87.

He enjoys double-digit leads over his opponent among Republican primary voters in five polls released within the last 30 days.