While most eyes will be focused next week on the presidential candidates speaking at the Republican Party of Florida’s Presidency 5 summit and the American Conservative Union’s Conservative Political Action Conference meeting in Orlando, the field of Republicans aiming to replace Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012 will also be on stage.

At the CPAC event, which will be held on Friday, Sept. 23, the four leading Republicans looking at taking on Nelson -- former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux, retired Army Col. and businessman Mike McCalister, and businessman Craig Miller -- will speak at a forum. They will also be competing in a straw poll at the CPAC event.

Looking to shore up their support, two of the Republican candidates unveiled endorsements on Tuesday.

Hasner picked up the latest in a series of endorsements from prominent national conservatives when Colin Hanna, president of right-of-center policy group Let Freedom Ring, backed his bid for the Republican nomination. The Hasner camp released a statement with the endorsement.

"Adam Hasner is far and away the best candidate for Floridians looking for a leader with a consistent record of supporting constitutional government, economic freedom, and traditional values," Hanna said. "America is at a critical crossroads, and if we're going to make the changes we need in Washington to turn our country around, we're going to need proven, limited-government champions like Adam Hasner leading the effort."

"I'm honored by Colin Hanna's support of our campaign," said Hasner. "Colin has been a pivotal part of a movement of everyday Americans who are working to change Washington by electing a new generation of reform-minded leaders."

Hasner has also been backed by other nationally prominent conservatives, including Ken Blackwell, Monica Crowley, Erick Erickson and Mark Levin.

Miller, the former CEO of Ruth's Chris and Uno Restaurants, announced his financial leadership team on Tuesday when he unveiled the backing of Winter Park Mayor Ken Bradley, Republican activist Armando Gutierrez Jr., restaurant owner Gale Lemerand, businessman Doug Long, and Dick Rivera -- another veteran of the restaurant industry. The Miller team released a statement on Tuesday with the endorsements.

“I’ve come to know these individuals over the years and consider each of them a friend,” Miller said. “I’m honored that they have volunteered to take up leadership roles with my campaign. The five of them understand that our country cannot continue on its present path and they recognize what’s at stake in next year’s election. It’s time to send someone to the Senate who understands job creation and economic growth and is in touch with Main Street. With the help of Ken, Armando, Gale, Doug and Dick, our campaign is going to retire 40-year career politician Bill Nelson in 2012.”

“I am excited to support a veteran who knows the meaning of true service,” Lemerand said. “I’m voting for Craig because he’s the only candidate in this race that comes from a business background and understands how jobs are created. Craig Miller has a real record of accomplishment and isn’t just another career politician. With leaders like Craig in the Senate, we can put our country back on the path to prosperity and undo the damage that politicians like Bill Nelson have done.”

Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.