Charlie Crist, popular governor of Florida, known as the “People’s Governor” has thrown his hat in the race for the Senate seat to be vacated by Mel Martinez (R-FL). He is considered to be the favorite but will face some competition from Marco Rubio, a Miami conservative who believes that Crist has compromised too much. Already the Democratic Party has produced an ad video attacking Crist as a “quitter” leaving Floridians with a “mess.”

It is unlikely that this will have much of an effect on his candidacy given his high approval ratings in Florida and name recognition. At stake is the balance of the Senate, which right now is in the hands of the ruling party in the United States: the Democrats. The primary race will give us an idea of whether Republicans are willing to compromise some principles to win elections or whether the Republicans will stick to their guns on small government and less spending. It could prove to be an interesting match.

Here is Marco Rubio, the conservative contender, firing the first shot:

I like it.

-AG