Marco Rubio: US debt top issue

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) -- The national debt is Senator-elect Marco Rubio's top concern, saying America's enemies dream of the country falling into a debt crisis as much as they do another Sept. 11-like terrorist attack.

Rubio, speaking to reporters Wednesday after beating independent Charlie Crist and Democrat Kendrick Meek to win Florida's open Senate seat, said that greatest national security threat is the national debt.

Rubio said: "Our enemies understand that if America's economy is not vibrant, we cannot afford to defend ourselves or our allies."

Rubio also said he hopes Republicans realize the Tuesday's elections are not about the nation favoring Republicans, but rather giving them a second chance to follow through on promises of being fiscally responsible.

© 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.