(CNN) – Florida Republican Senate candidate Marco Rubio is pulling out of what would have been his first debate with Democratic opponent Kendrick Meek, citing the health of his father.
The debate – in which independent candidate and current Florida Gov. Charlie Crist was not scheduled to participate – was set to air on NBC's Meet the Press.
"Unfortunately, the health of Marco's father, Mario Rubio, has significantly deteriorated in the last 48 hours. As a result, Marco plans to stay with his father and family during this time, and will be unable to participate in this Sunday's debate on Meet the Press," said campaign spokesman Alex Burgos.
Rubio's father, Mario, is 83 years old and has emphysema and lung cancer, according to Burgos.
Recent polls suggest Rubio and Crist essentially tied while Meek is running a distant third.
From CNN Politics
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I can't understand why anyone would be suspicious of Rubio's reasons for not debating at this time. Regardless of whether you agree with his views, he is incredibly articulate and has nothing to fear from a debate.
What fick suckers you libtards are. Put yourself in his position. Rubio is not the kind of person to pass up an opportunity to debate and get his message across, unless he really has to. Have sympathy? Not you loons.
I'll give him the benefit of the doubt, but it's fairly sad that it wouldn't suprise me if this is a response to Crist getting a big Dem backer.
Ok, you have used your father as excuse, is your mom still alive? If yes, you can do it one more time!
Tulsa, said, "So will family illness also prevent him from doing his duties as Senator. I don't want anyone to have to deal with an ill Parent. It's an awful thing. However, if one is seeking public office, they must make sacrifices. Rubio seems to be running FROM a debate, not being a good son."
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Spoken like a true heartless, hypocrite that was probably abandoned at a young age.
When Obama backed out of his debate in NC April 2008 did u happen to have a problem with that? Obama's reason for backing out, “time constraints and logistical issues.”. I guess Obama does not have to make the same sacrifices as u expect of Rubio.
Why don't u talk about the sacrifies being made today by Congress as the economy deteriorates? In case u do not know they are all on break campaigning. But no objection fr you right?
Screw it...can't help myself. Gee, Rubio, doesn't it make you wonder how it would feel if your dad didn't have and couldn't get insurance because of his illness?
Hope his father well , but is suspect at this moment ......SOoooooooooooooo
Run Rubio Run !!!!
AWAY