The Palm Beach Post is reporting that Governor Charlie Crist has sent out a document entitled "Questionnaire for Senate Appointment," to three men [link to pdf]. The first two names have been mentioned widely before: former Secretary of State Jim Smith, and former US Attorney Bob Menendez. But the third is a bit of a surprise: Miami area Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart.
Though the questionnaire is expected to be sent to others.
If Diaz-Balart was appointed it would, obviously, create an opening for his House Seat. He also would have to oblige not to run for election to the seat, so it could mean the end of his congressional career after his place-holder time is up.
It would also mean a special election would be called to fill his seat.
Diaz-Balart has already endorsed Crist's own 2010 Senate bid.