BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) -- The head of Alabama's Republican Party is praising GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney's pick for a running mate as a "bold choice" who brings with him detailed knowledge of the federal budget.

Alabama GOP Chairman Bill Armistead said Saturday that Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan understands the federal budget and debt.

Armistead said that knowledge will be important to build a stronger middle class if Romney wins the White House this fall.

Romney officially announced his choice of a running mate at a rally in Virginia.

President Barack Obama's campaign said Romney's decision to pick Ryan shows a commitment to what it called "budget-busting tax cuts" for the wealthy and "greater burdens" on the middle class and seniors.

AP-WF-08-11-12 1511GMT