Third Florida Dem Mulling Run for Senate

by Michael O'Brien - 01/27/09 1:47 PM ET

A third Florida politician is considering entering the Democratic primary to run for the state’s open Senate seat in 2010.

Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio is considering throwing her hat into the ring for the race, The Tampa Tribune reported Tuesday.

Rep. Kendrick Meek (D) and state Sen. Dan Gelber have both formally announced their intent to seek the Democratic nomination.

“It was not something I was considering when there was a possibility that [Florida Chief Financial Officer] Alex Sink (D) might run,” Iorio said, adding that she has no timetable for her decision. “But since she bowed out, I have had people talk to me about it. So I am analyzing it, and that’s where I am right now. I have not ruled it out.”

Iorio could benefit from a split primary base between Gelber and Meek, who both represent the Miami area.

Former state House Speaker Marco Rubio is expected to seek the Republican nomination.

The candidates are running to fill the open seat left by Sen. Mel Martinez (R), who announced his retirement after one term last year.

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