Rubio Suspends Senate Race On Father's Death
March Rubio had already canceled a Sunday morning debate with Kendrick Meek on account of his father's health
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MIAMI BEACH, FL - APRIL 21: Republican candidate for U.S. Senate Marco Rubio speaks to the media before being introduced at the Latin American Business Association at the Fountain Blue hotel and resorts on April 21, 2010 in Miami Beach, Florida. Rubio has recently built a double-digit lead in the polls in his challenge to Florida Gov. Charlie Crist for the GOP nomination. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Marco Rubio
The father of Republican Senate candidate Marco Rubio has died after a long illness. He was 83.
Rubio's campaign announced Saturday night that Mario Rubio died at Baptist Hospital in Miami. He had been suffering from emphysema and lung cancer.
The campaign announcement said Mario Rubio was accompanied by his wife of 61 years, his four children and other relatives.
The candidate was forced Friday to cancel a debate with Democrat Kendrick Meek because of his father's declining condition.
Rubio says his father "was especially determined to provide his children opportunities he himself never had."
Meek extended his condolences, saying political differences took a back seat to caring for family.
Copyright Associated Press
Posted Sunday, Sep 5, 2010 - 9:51 AM EST
