Diaz-Balarts Rescind Crist Endorsement

Two Republican lawmakers and brothers jointly rescinded their backing of Florida Gov. Charlie Crist for the U.S. Senate, using vague language to explain that they're out of the endorsement game.

"We take our endorsements seriously, but the governor knows why we withdrew and he left us with no alternative," said Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, speaking on behalf of his brother, Mario.

Balart Chief of Staff Ana Carbonell told Fox News said the brothers aren't going to turn around and back Crist opponent, former House Speaker Mario Rubio, who has moved up in primary polls ahead of next year's vote.

The decision to withdraw backing for Crist was made weeks ago and has nothing to do with Rubio's recent rise, Carbonell said, leaving open the door for a future endorsement of Rubio. The two first endorsed Crist in July.

The withdrawal has surprised many in Florida, though Crist spokeswoman Andrea Saul appeared unfazed.

"Gov. Crist is enthused by the support he continues to receive across the state for next year's primary. He looks forward to working with the Diaz-Balarts and the entire congressional delegation to better the lives of Floridians as Florida's next U.S. senator," she said.

Fox News' Serafin Gomez contributed to this report.