Fla. attorney general to run for governor
By BRENT KALLESTAD
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Attorney General Charlie Crist became a formal candidate for governor Monday when his paperwork was delivered to Florida elections officials by "America's Most Wanted" host John Walsh.
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The filing kicks off a Republican contest to succeed Gov. Jeb Bush that could involve several of the state's best-known officeholders. Bush is barred by state law from seeking a third term.
"I think it'll be a competitive, spirited race, and I think it will be one that's hopefully based on noble ideas that different people have that are in there," Crist said.
Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher and Lt. Gov. Toni Jennings are other prominent Republicans considering the race along with Crist, who also served two years as education commissioner. He became attorney general in 2002.
Several polls in recent months have indicated Crist enjoys significant name recognition and support among Republicans.
On the Democratic side, state Sen. Rod Smith and U.S. Rep. Jim Davis have already filed to run. Former state Democratic Party Chairman Scott Maddox is another possible candidate.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/apelection_story.asp?category=1134&slug=Florida%20Governor
