Woah, boy. Grumpy Sen. Mel Martinez has apparently had enough of this "serving the people" stuff. Several sources report he will resign, possibly as early as today. His term would expire in early 2011, and he had previously promised to serve the rest of it. But the race to replace him had already begun, with Gov. Charlie Crist as the current leader in polls and fundraising.
Usually in Senate races where there's such a powerful early frontrunner such as Crist, there's not much drama. But the Florida Senate race is already a full-fledged soap opera. It's now more complicated by the fact that as governor, Crist will have to appoint Martinez's replacement.
Technically, Crist could appoint himself, but that's unlikely to happen. Instead, he'll most likely appoint a placeholder -- someone who won't run for the seat him- or herself. Some of the names being floated: former Gov. Bob Martinez, former Sen. Connie Mack, and former Florida Secretary of State Jim Smith.
As for what Martinez will do next: He has stuck to the line that he'll return to private law practice, but apparently he has a habit of going back on his word. His name has been mentioned as a possible replacement for T. K. Wetherell as FSU's president.
Update: Martinez's letter explaining his resignation to his supporters is after the jump. He cites family reasons.
Because you're a friend, I wanted you to know first about the decision I will announce today to step down from public office.
Twelve years ago I offered myself as a candidate for public office in Florida out of a deep sense of appreciation for what America and the people of Florida did for me as a young immigrant to this country.
In 1997, Kitty and I decided it was time to give back and we entered the public arena, first as Mayor of Orange County, then as a Member of the President's cabinet and now as a United StatesSenator. Through those experiences I have gained the greatest respect for the people of Florida and have enjoyed serving their interests.
When I began my term as Senator, I promised I wouldn't simply warm a seat; I promised to take on the difficult issues and work to make a difference. Keeping that promise has meant pressing for help and assistance for families struggling to keep their homes, their jobs, and their confidence that our country is safe.
And on that note, I am especially grateful to the men and women of our military and their families whom I have had the distinct honor of representing in Washington and I thank them for their service to our country.
As a US Senator, I have also had a platform to speak against the oppression of the Cuban regime and my hope for a better future for the people of Cuba. I will continue that lifelong passion in the next phase of my life. I will always be grateful to the people of Florida for bestowing on me the singular honor of representing them in the United States Senate.
My priorities have always been my faith, my family and my country and at this stage in my life, and after nearly twelve years of public service in Florida and Washington, it's time I return to Florida and my family.
So today I am announcing my decision to step down from public office, effective on a successor taking office to fill out the remainder of my term.
I have enjoyed my time in the Senate and have the utmost respect for my colleagues and the institution. I especially thank Republican Leader Mitch McConnell for his guidance and insight.
I look forward to continuing to be an active and constructive voice on issues vital to Florida and our nation, and being an active member of Florida's Republican Party.
Lastly, Kitty and I would like to thank you for all your support. You have been helpful in countless ways. As I begin this new chapter in my life, I look forward to seeing more of you and your family
