Locals react to Rubio's campaign stop in New Smyrna Beach

Photos by Henry Frederick.

Republican U.S, hopeful Marco Rubio addresses an enthusiastic crowd Thursday in New Smyrna Beach.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- Here is a sampling of the enthusiastic support by local residents and community leaders to Thursday's visit by Republicam U.S. Senate hopeful Marco Rubio to American Aero Services at the New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport:

Margie Patchett, candidate for Volusia County Council at-large and founder of Volusia Tax Reform, goes over some campaign flyers with Rubio.

"He is wonderful. His message comes from his heart. He was speaker of the (Florida) house, when we took 17 buses up to Tallahassee in 2007, to push for reform measures. We need him in Washington. He's a true American -- a true conservative."

-- Margie Patchett

New Smyrna Beach Attorney Glenn Storch and Rubio share a light moment together.

"I like his optimism for the future of this county."

-- Glenn Storch

Ellen Darden, president elect of the Southeast Volusia Board of Realtors watches as Rubio works the crowd.

"It was an honor to have him here in New Smyrna Beach and his message was clearly well received."

-- Ellen Darden