Press Release:

“As we welcome the New Year, this is an important opportunity to reflect on both the victories and setbacks of the past 12 months and determine the direction we must take Florida in 2010.

“This year, our state faced the most challenging economic straits in decades. Too many of our neighbors lost their jobs and are weighed down by concerns of higher taxes and rising household bills. Americans across the nation witnessed an unprecedented growth of the federal government and billions racked up in new spending and debt.

“Now, we embark on a new decade, steadfast in our belief that the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of our fellow Floridians will bring us a stronger economy in 2010. It is time to rededicate ourselves to making Florida the most attractive business climate in the nation. We need to foster job creation, keep taxes low, improve education and cut government waste and frivolous spending – my top priorities as Florida’s next governor.

“As families across the Sunshine State gather to ring in the New Year this evening, Ingrid and I share our best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010."