The American Spectator

Washington Prowler

(Page 2 of 2)

br> Karl Rove is going to have to step into the Republican Florida Senate primary soon if the GOP is to have a legitimate shot at retaking a seat in the Sunshine state. /p>

Former Rep. Bill McCollum, who was trounced by Sen. Bill Nelson in 2000, has announced plans to run for the Senate again, this time for the seat currently held by Sen. Bob Graham, who may run for president instead of for re-election.

McCollum, coming off his job as a House manager in President Bill Clinton's impeachment, ran unopposed in the Senate primary in 2000. Then he got buried by Nelson. McCollum's poor showing last time out probably does not bode well for him this time around, even if the Democrat in the race won't be Graham. Republicans in Florida are hoping the White House will step in and persuade McCollum not to run. There are several other figures who would make stronger GOP candidates. Already, Rep. Mark Foley, has indicated he will run for the seat, and has been lining up support in the Washington lobbying community for fundraising support.

"Foley is a better pick. He's just more appealing," says a Republican National Committee Staffer. "But the Senatorial campaign committee hasn't made a decision yet. They've just started looking at options. But I just don't think McCollum is going to be the guy. He had his shot and didn't perform well at all."

topics:
Bill Clinton, NATO