IT'S OFFICIAL: SMITH RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR

There's actually a race for governor now: State Senator Rod Smith (D - Gainsville) has told the Palm Beach Post that he would file papers today to run and would send a letter to the state Democratic Party this week. This is according to Adam C. Smith in today's St. Petersburg Times (the Post Web site did not have a link to the story as of 6:00 AM this morning)

Smith apparantly feels that his more moderate views on many issues would win back rural Floridians, mostly in North Florida, who have turned to Republican candidates in recent elections. He is in favour of the death penalty, pro-gun, and is chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

His early entry will give the Alachua County legislator time to build name recognition across the state. At present the only other Democrat in the race is Lawton "Bud" Chiles, III, an unknown entity as he has not run for public office before. Also considering a possible run next year are Florida Democratic Party chairman and former Tallahassee mayor Scott Mattox, former Education Commissioner/USF President/Senate candidate Betty Castor, and Congressman Jim Davis (D - Tampa).

Among the Repubs being touted as possible candidates: Attorney General Charlie Crist, Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher, and Lieutenant Governor Toni Jennings.