Yesterday, U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-Orlando) made an announcement that shook up Florida politics and triggered national headlines. He will not seek re-election in 2010.Two FAMU supporters, U.S. Congressmen Allen Boyd (D-Monticello) and Kendrick Meek (D-Miami), have expressed interest in running for the open seat.
"I have been considering a run for the U.S. Senate in 2010, prior to Sen. Martinez's announcement today,” Boyd told reporters.
“I will continue to discuss the race with state and national party leaders and with my supporters in North Florida and throughout the state. Most importantly, I'll talk about this with my family, and I expect we'll make a final decision very early next year."
Boyd is also mentioned as a possible candidate for the position of Florida commissioner of agricultural and consumer services.
After news of Martinez’s retirement broke, reporters quickly inquired
about Meek’s plans, as well.A Meek spokesperson confirmed that he’s “definitely looking into it.”
Boyd, whose district includes FAMU, and Meek, a FAMU alumnus, both have strong records of supporting the university.
Other possible Democratic candidates include: Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, state Sen. Dan Gelber, and U.S. Congresspersons Ron Klein and Kathy Castor.
The potential GOP field is also very large. Former Gov. Jeb Bush, Gov. Charlie Crist, Attorney General Bill McCollum, U.S. Congressman Connie Mack, former House Speaker Marco Rubio, and former House Speaker Allan Bense are all considered possible contenders.
JEB BUSH!!!!! 86!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteStrong AT-SIX! Rubio and the bunch, lol.
ReplyDeleteChiefl Financial Officer Alex Sink has already said that she's not interested in the job. Heard it this a.m. on the riddio. Don't know about the others.
ReplyDeleteAlex Sink said she's reconsidering, now that Martinez says he's definitely out the race.
ReplyDeleteI read that Jeb Bush is interested. After George W, America may be sick of Bushes.
ReplyDeleteYeah, but you can never count the Bushes out. Bush has name recognition and the best fundraising network of any Florida politician.
ReplyDeleteIf the Democrats want this U.S. Senate seat back, then they need to send Obama, Hillary, and Bill Richardson out on the campaign trail to rev up the base.