Ex-HUD Chief Files for Fla. Senate Race

[Frodo]

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Mel Martinez began his run for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate on Monday, saying he is not banking on his presidential connections to win the primary

Of course not! - It's the other way around!

Martinez, 57, rejected earlier overtures from the White House to run for Senate because he preferred to run for governor when Gov. Jeb Bush's second term ends in 2006. But he reconsidered after Graham announced his retirement in November and fresh White House appeals. He has been planning his campaign since he resigned his Cabinet post last month.

- - Clip - -

The White House repeatedly urged Martinez to run, hoping his candidacy would shove aside Harris, who was at the center of the controversial 2000 presidential recount. The president's political advisers fear her candidacy would drive up turnout by angry Democrats, hurting Bush's chances of carrying the state, which will be vital to his re-election prospects.


Democrats seeking the seat include former Education Commissioner Betty Castor of Tampa, U.S. Rep. Peter Deutsch of the Fort Lauderdale area and Miami-Dade County Mayor Alex Penelas.




http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=536&e=5&u=/ap/20040105/ap_on_el_se/martinez_senate

[Racenut20]

1. Fmr. Congressman McCullum & Fl Speaker Byrd

Gotta love this. Means they will get none of the millions passed out by BushCo. Look for them to withdrawl. Florida Republicans typically do everything possible to avoid a primary election.

[Frodo]

2. Whereas WE go out of our way to make it bloody?

I take it that's your point?

We've got two or three legitimate candidates that will end up beating each other up while the Republicans "come together" behind one candidate?


I was hoping Harris would run.... sigh.