The Florida Credit Union Association announced it has endorsedSen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) in the Florida Republican Senateprimary.

The announcement came after a vote by the board of the League ofSoutheastern Credit Unions & Affiliates, a group that includescredit unions in the Sunshine State and Alabama. Rubio, who mountedan unsuccessful campaign for the GOP presidential nomination, wasfirst elected to the Senate in 2010.

Rubio had not been expected to run for re-election, but heannounced on June 22 that he would indeed seek another term.

In announcing the endorsement, the Florida association said thatRubio has been a strong advocate of regulatory relief for financialinstitutions, in particular community-based institutions.

The association said during his presidential campaign, Rubiooften spoke about the need to repeal or amend the Dodd-FrankAct.

Rubio faces four Republicans in the Aug. 30 GOP primary.

“Credit unions have had the pleasure of working with SenatorRubio for the past six years on the issues important to ourindustry and members,” LSCU President/CEO Patrick La Pine said.“His keen understanding of the needs of his constituents and hisconcern for Florida's small businesses align with the ideals of ourorganization and our members. We are proud to support Sen. Rubioand look forward to working with him during his next term.”

Earlier this year, the Alabama affiliate of the league endorsed Senate Banking Committee Chairman Richard Shelby(R-Ala.) in his re-election campaign.