Possible Hillary Challenger Martin O'Malley to Hobnob in Miami With Ex-Mayor Manny Diaz's Help

Apparently Hillary Clinton won't be able to count on the same support in Miami she had in 2008. Back then, sitting Mayor of Miami Manny Diaz emerged as one of Clinton's stronger supporters and local surrogates. He appeared with Hillary at numerous primary campaign stops across Florida. 

Clinton may seem even more guaranteed of the eventual Democratic nomination now than she was in 2008, but that doesn't necessarily mean she won't face any primary challenger. Former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley is mentioned as the most likely possible opponent, and it just so happens that he'll be stopping in Miami next month.

And guess who will be playing host and introducing him to potential donors? None other than Manny Diaz

The Buzz points that O'Malley's PAC sent out an invite to a meet-and-greet with the governor on May 9 at Perricone's Marketplace and Cafe on Brickell with Diaz listed as host. 

"As sitting Mayors, Martin and I worked closely together and have maintained a strong friendship through the years. He recently finished his second term as Governor of Maryland. I would like to introduce you to my friend. No commitments. No checks. Only a cup of coffee, a handshake and a simple hello," wrote Diaz. 

Indeed, O'Malley's time as mayor of Baltimore overlapped greatly with Diaz's time as Miami mayor (though O'Malley would move to the Governor's Office before Diaz's time as president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors). 

O'Malley hasn't taken any official steps towards running for president, but he has hosted similar low-key events and made appearances in swing states and donor rich areas in the past year. The Boston Globe chronicled a seemingly random appearance O'Malley made in New Hampshire last month for example. 

It is, however, unusual that he's getting help from a former Clinton-supporter. 

Though, back in 2008 it seemed that if Diaz's run in elected politics might not be over. He has been mentioned in the past as a possible candidate for races as varied as county mayor, governor, attorney general, and U.S. representative, but has never actually moved forward with a run.

In 2008, backing Clinton was backing the Democratic establishment. In 2014, it seems Diaz isn't too worried about the future implications of who he aligns himself with.