Two More Floridians Say ‘No’ to Senate Bid

Wed, January 28, 2009 - 3:38 PM

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd of Monticello has decided against running for the Senate seat being vacated by Republican Mel Martinez.

In a statement released this afternoon, Democrat Boyd said it is his “intent to continue serving the people of North Florida and run for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010.”

The announcement comes one day after state Sen. Dan Gelber of Miami said he is in the race for the Democratic nomination for the seat, and more than a week after U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek of Miami said he’d also seek the nomination.

But Boyd said he is a “unique position” with 12 years of experience in the House “to build on past legislative accomplishments, and I will have an even stronger voice in policy decisions that will affect our economy and fiscal outlook.”

“At home, I will continue to work hard to support North Florida's military bases, the rural and coastal communities, and our colleges and universities,” he said. “The U.S. House of Representatives will allow me to address the serious challenges we face and make positive changes for the benefit of the people of North Florida.”

Boyd’s decision not to run came on the same day that state Attorney General Bill McCollum, a Republican, also announced that he does not intend to run for Martinez’s Senate seat, but instead seek re-election to his current post.

Billy House, Media General News Service.