NRCC chairman says embattled Florida Republican ‘doing a very good job’

Asked if he shares Cantor’s concern, Sessions emphasized that the questions surrounding Rivera emanate entirely from his time as a member of the Florida Legislature.

“I would just say that the issues that David is dealing with were entirely those from his service in Florida,” he said. “I have not seen many reports other than a newspaper that’s pushing a lot of these things.”

Rivera is sure to be a top Democratic target next year should he end up back on the ballot. Republicans are reportedly looking at potential candidates to replace him should he be unable to serve out his term or decide not to stand for reelection.

Sessions would not say whether the issues surrounding Rivera would have any bearing on how the NRCC treats his reelection prospects come 2012.

“It would be very appropriate to say that I understand and that David understands that was from his prior service,” he said.

—Russell Berman contributed to this report.