2010 United States Senate election in Florida

none January 2025 December 2017 2010 United States Senate election in Florida Florida presidential no 2004 United States Senate election in Florida 2004 2016 United States Senate election in Florida 2016 November 2, 2010 x150px Marco Rubio, Official Portrait, 112th Congress.jpg Marco Rubio Republican Party (United States) 2,645,743 48.89% Charlie Crist official portrait crop.jpg Charlie Crist Independent 1,607,549 29.71% Kendrick Meek official_portrait (cropped).jpg Kendrick Meek Democratic Party (United States) 1,092,936 20.20% 300px County results 300px Congressional district results 300px Precinct results 1 Rubio: #FFC8CD 30–40% #FFB2B2 40–50% #E27F7F 50–60% #D75D5D 60–70% #D72F30 70–80% #C21B18 80–90% #A80000 >90%Crist: #E6E6E6 30–40% #D9D9D9 40–50% #BDBDBD 50–60% #969696 60–70% #737373 70–80% #555555 80–90% #333333 >90% Meek: #BDD3FF 30–40% #A5B0FF 40–50% #7996e2 50–60% #6674de 60–70% #584cde 70–80% #3933e5 80–90% #0d0596 >90%Tie: #DECDE6 30–40% #d2b1d9 40–50% #ae8bb1 50% #808080 No votes U.S. Senator George LeMieuxIn September 2009, LeMieux was appointed by Governor Charlie Crist to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Senator Mel Martínez. Republican Party (United States) Marco Rubio Republican Party (United States) The 2010 United States Senate election in Florida took place on November 2, 2010, concurrently with other elections to the United States Senate in other states, as well as elections to the United States House of Representatives, and various state and local elections. Incumbent Republican Senator Mel Martínez, who was elected in a very close race against Democrat Betty Castor with 49% of the vote in 2004, did not seek re-election to a second term,http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/12/02/sen-martinez-wont-seek-reelection/?eref=politicalflipper Sen. Martinez won't seek reelection CNN.com Dana Bash and Ted Barrett December 2, 2008 December 2, 2008 May 20, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090520054854/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/12/02/sen-martinez-wont-seek-reelection/?eref=politicalflipper dead and stated on August 7, 2009, that he would resign prior to the end of his term.http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/08/07/florida-senator-to-resign-seat CNN First on the CNN Ticker: Florida senator to resign seat May 12, 2010 August 7, 2009 December 28, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091228045014/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/08/07/florida-senator-to-resign-seat/ dead As his successor, the governor of Florida, Republican Charlie Crist, appointed his former chief of staff, George LeMieux. LeMieux, who replaced Martínez in the Senate on September 10, 2009, was a placeholder and did not seek election, as Crist aimed at the seat himself. This was one of the five Republican-held Senate seats up for election in a state that Barack Obama won in the 2008 presidential election. Despite the resignation of Martínez, this was not a special election, 2010 was one of the two states, along with Colorado, was already planned as a normal Senate election. Crist publicly launched his campaign for the seat in mid-2009. When he declared his candidacy, he received many Republican endorsements, including the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Martínez, and 2008 Republican presidential nominee John McCain. However, his support of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 hurt his popularity among conservatives, and Tea Party candidate Marco Rubio, the former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, surged in the polls. In April 2010, Crist dropped out of the Republican primary and ran as an Independent. The National Republican Senatorial Committee withdrew its endorsement of Crist and demanded a refund of its campaign funds that it provided for the Crist campaign.http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/apr/29/gop-donors-vow-to-take-cash-back-if-crist-leaves-p If Crist leaves party, GOP donors vow to take cash back Washington Times April 29, 2010 June 14, 2010http://blogs.abcnews.com/thenote/2010/04/cornyn-on-crist-i-want-my-money-back.html Cornyn on Crist: I Want My Money Back - The Note Blogs.abcnews.com April 29, 2010 June 14, 2010https://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/Politics/marco-rubio-charlie-crist-party-switch-florida-senate/story?id=10508166&page=2 Marco Rubio on Charlie Crist Party Switch in Florida Senate Race - ABC News Abcnews.go.com February 18, 2010 June 14, 2010 Rubio went on to win the Republican primary against only token opposition. U.S. Representative Kendrick Meek was the first Democrat to declare his intention to run and he defeated billionaire businessman Jeff Greene in his party's primary. Also on the ballot were Alexander Snitker of the Libertarian Party,http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/content/libertarian-alexander-snitker-joins-us-senate-race Libertarian Alexander Snitker joins U.S. Senate race. Tampa Bay Times Lee Logan April 21, 2010 December 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20140525213906/http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/content/libertarian-alexander-snitker-joins-us-senate-race May 25, 2014 dead mdy-all Bernie DeCastro of the Constitution Party, and five other independent candidates. Polling initially showed Crist neck and neck with Rubio, but by the end of August, Rubio opened up a solid and consistent lead. He was supported by Republican and some Independent voters whereas Democratic and other Independent voters were split between Crist and Meek. Rubio went on to win the election with 49% of the vote to Crist's 30% and Meek's 20%. Background thumb|190px|left|Widely regarded to be one of the most vulnerable incumbent Senators, faced with lagging poll numbers and poor approval ratings, Mel Martínez did not run for re-election to a second term. Republican Mel Martínez, the former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, was elected to the Senate in 2004, defeating Democrat Betty Castor, the former president of the University of South Florida and former Florida Education Commissioner, by 82,663 votes, 49.4% to 48.3%. He succeeded retiring Democratic incumbent Bob Graham. Throughout 2008, opinion polls found that Martínez was consistently unpopular with a plurality of Florida voters. Public Policy Polling surveys taken in June, July/August, and September 2008 found that his job approval rating was 23%, 24% and 23%, respectively, with 43%, 40% and 37%, respectively, disapproving of his job performance.http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/pdf/2008/PPP_Release_Florida701.pdf Obama, McCain close in Florida; Martinez vulnerable Public Policy Polling July 1, 2008 May 25, 2014http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/pdf/2008/PPP_Release_Florida_805.pdf McCain takes small Florida lead Public Policy Polling August 5, 2008 May 25, 2014http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/pdf/2008/PPP_Release_Florida_909.pdf McCain expands Florida lead Public Policy Polling September 9, 2008 May 25, 2014 A Quinnipiac University Polling Institute survey in November 2008 found him with a higher job approval rating, with 42% approving of his job performance, 33% disapproving and 25% unsure. However, the same survey also found that only 36% of Florida voters thought he deserved to be re-elected, compared to 38% who did not and 26% who were unsure. 36% also said that if the 2010 election were held on that day, they would vote for Martínez, while 40% said they would vote for his Democratic opponent, with 24% unsure. Furthermore, his personal approval rating was 31%, with 28% having an unfavourable opinion of him and 40% saying they had no opinion of him.http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1297.xml?ReleaseID=1230 https://web.archive.org/web/20090104230337/http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1297.xml?ReleaseID=1230 Gov. Crist Is Man To Beat In Florida, Quinnipiac University Poll Finds; Sen. Martinez Gets Mixed Grades From Voters Quinnipiac University Polling Institute November 18, 2008 May 25, 2014 January 4, 2009 In head-to-head matches against specific Democratic opponents, the same Public Policy Polling surveys found Martínez tied with U.S. Representative Robert Wexler and trailing Chief Financial Officer of Florida Alex Sink, former senator Bob Graham, U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, U.S. Representative Allen Boyd and U.S. Representative Ron Klein, by margins of between 1 and 20 points. In its November 2008 ratings of the 2010 Senate elections, The Cook Political Report rated the Florida race as a "tossup"http://www.cookpolitical.com/charts/senate/raceratings_2008-11-14_09-22-07.php https://web.archive.org/web/20081120131626/http://www.cookpolitical.com/charts/senate/raceratings_2008-11-14_09-22-07.php 2010 SENATE RACE RATINGS The Cook Political Report November 14, 2008 May 25, 2014 November 20, 2008 and various media outlets identified Martínez as one of the most vulnerable incumbent senators.https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/1208/Sink_not_running_against_Martinez.html Sink not running against Martinez Politico Josh Kraushaar December 1, 2008 May 25, 2014http://firstread.nbcnews.com/_news/2008/12/02/4431112-martinez-wont-run-again-in-2010 Martinez won't run again in 2010 NBC News December 2, 2008 May 25, 2014http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/riptide/2008/12/mel_martinez_decides_one_term.php Mel Martinez Decides One Term is Enough, 2010 Senate Race Wide Open Miami New Times Kyle Munzenrieder December 2, 2008 May 25, 2014http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/national/sen-mel-martinez-resigns-crist-will-appoint-replacement/1025671 Sen. Mel Martinez resigns; Crist will appoint replacement Tampa Bay Times Alex Leary Adam C. Smith August 7, 2009 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140525213532/http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/national/sen-mel-martinez-resigns-crist-will-appoint-replacement/1025671 May 25, 2014 dead mdy-all background:#cff Hypothetical polling with Mel Martínez border:solid 1px silver; padding:8px; background:var(--background-color-base); color:var(--color-base) Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error MelMartínez (R) AllenBoyd (D) Other UndecidedPublic Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling September 6–7, 2008 986 LV ± 3.1% 33% 37% — 30% Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error MelMartínez (R) BobGraham (D) Other UndecidedPublic Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling July 30 – August 2, 2008 807 LV ± 3.5% 31% 51% — 18% Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error MelMartínez (R) RonKlein (D) Other UndecidedPublic Policy Polling September 6–7, 2008 986 LV ± 3.1% 33% 37% — 30% Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error MelMartínez (R) AlexSink (D) Other UndecidedPublic Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling June 26–29, 2008 723 LV ± 3.6% 31% 37% — 32% Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error MelMartínez (R) DebbieWasserman Schultz (D) Other UndecidedPublic Policy Polling July 30 – August 2, 2008 807 LV ± 3.5% 37% 38% — 25% Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error MelMartínez (R) RobertWexler (D) Other UndecidedPublic Policy Polling June 26–29, 2008 723 LV ± 3.6% 33% 33% — 34% Martínez was reported to be planning to run for re-election, but was not expected to make an official statement until January 2009.https://thehill.com/homenews/news/14726-sink-decision-to-come-very-soon/ Sink decision to come 'very soon' The Hill Aaron Blake November 25, 2008 May 25, 2014 On December 1, Alex Sink declared that she would run for re-election as Chief Financial Officer rather than for the Senate. The following day, Martínez stated that he would not seek re-election, saying that he wanted to spend more time with his family.http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2008/12/mel-wants-more.html https://web.archive.org/web/20081204094408/http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2008/12/mel-wants-more.html Martinez wants more time with family Tampa Bay Times Adam C. Smith December 2, 2008 May 25, 2014 December 4, 2008 Republican primary Background Upon Senator Martínez's not seeking re-election, early speculation surrounded former Governor Jeb Bush.https://www.theatlantic.com/archives/2008/12/jeb_bush_ponders_florida_senat.php Jeb Bush Ponders Florida Senate Run The Atlantic Marc Ambinder December 2, 2008 December 2018 InternetArchiveBot yes It was thought that if Bush decided to run, other potential Republican candidates would allow Bush to run uncontested. After consideration,http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2008/12/jeb-is-consider.html https://web.archive.org/web/20090621052903/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2008/12/jeb-is-consider.html Jeb is considering the Senate Orlando Sentinel Aaron Deslatte December 2, 2008 May 25, 2014 June 21, 2009 Bush decided not to run.http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/01/06/jeb-bush-not-running-for-senate CNN.com Jeb Bush not running for Senate January 6, 2009 May 27, 2010 November 19, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20101119094442/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/01/06/jeb-bush-not-running-for-senate/ dead Other potential candidates included Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum, former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives Marco Rubio, Florida Senate President Jeff Atwater, Florida House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty and U.S. Representatives Vern Buchanan, Lincoln Díaz-Balart, Mario Díaz-Balart, Connie Mack IV and Adam Putnam.http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/dcblog/2008/12/adam_hasner_for_us_senate_how.html Adam Hasner for U.S. Senate? How about Rubio, McCollum, or Gelber? Sun-Sentinel William E. Gibson December 2, 2008 May 25, 2014 Florida Governor Charlie Crist was initially not thought likely to run, instead preferring to run for re-election.https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/02/AR2008120203239.html Florida's Martinez Says He Will Retire in 2010 The Washington Post Chris Cillizza December 3, 2008 May 25, 2014 Mack and Rubio were thought the most likely to run, with both preparing their campaigns behind the scenes.http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2008/12/sink-will-reass.html https://web.archive.org/web/20081204094413/http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2008/12/sink-will-reass.html Sink, Rubio, McCollum ponder Senate race Tampa Bay Times December 2, 2008 May 25, 2014 December 4, 2008https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0109/Boyd_not_running_for_Senate.html Boyd, McCollum not running for Senate Politico Josh Kraushaar January 28, 2009 May 25, 2014 On January 28, 2009, McCollum decided not to seek a Senate seat.http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2009/01/mccollum-boyd-out-of-senate-race.html McCollum, Boyd out of Senate race Miami Herald Beth Reinhard January 28, 2009 May 25, 2014 On February 9, Joe Scarborough, a cable news host for MSNBC and former U.S. Representative from Florida, told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune that he may run for office again, and was considering running for the Senate.http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090209/COLUMNIST/902090340/2257/NEWS?Title=Question___Morning_Joe__or_Sen__Joe_ Question: 'Morning Joe' or Sen. Joe? Sarasota Herald Tribune Jeremy Wallace February 9, 2009 February 10, 2009 February 12, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090212034113/http://www.heraldtribune.com//article//20090209//COLUMNIST//902090340//2257//NEWS?Title=Question___Morning_Joe__or_Sen__Joe_ dead An MSNBC spokesman refuted the idea that Scarborough might run,https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0209/A_Scarborough_Senate_campaign.html A Scarborough Senate campaign? Josh Kraushaar Politico February 9, 2009 and the following day, Scarborough, while interviewing White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, dismissed the idea that he would run.https://www.politico.com/story/2009/02/gibbs-grills-senator-scarborough-018661 Gibbs grills 'Senator Scarborough' Politico Andy Barr February 10, 2009 In early February, speculation increased that Charlie Crist was considering running and that Martínez, who had previously pledged to serve out the rest of his term, would resign. The possibility of Crist appointing himself to the Senate was ruled out by Jim Greer, the chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, but it was further speculated that Crist could also resign, allowing his Republican Lieutenant Governor, Jeff Kottkamp, to appoint Crist to the Senate.http://www.rollcall.com/news/-31954-1.html Martinez Eyeing Early Exit as Crist Looks at Senate Seat Roll Call David M. Drucker February 2, 2009 May 25, 2014https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0209/Charlie_Crist_for_Senate.html Charlie Crist for Senate? The Washington Post Josh Kraushaar February 2, 2009 May 25, 2014 The race was essentially "frozen" as potential candidates waited for Crist to declare his intentionshttps://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0409/A_CristRubio_Senate_primary.html A Crist-Rubio Senate primary? Politico Josh Kraushaar April 3, 2009 May 25, 2014http://members.jacksonville.com/opinion/columnists/ron_littlepage/2009-04-05/story/political_intrigue_already_is_starting_to_mount Political intrigue already is starting to mount The Florida Times-Union Ron Littlepage April 5, 2009 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140526052153/http://members.jacksonville.com/opinion/columnists/ron_littlepage/2009-04-05/story/political_intrigue_already_is_starting_to_mount May 26, 2014 dead mdy-all and almost immediately, he began to receive criticism from the right of the Republican Party. This dissatisfaction, which had begun soon after he was elected, "snowballed" when he began considering running for the Senate, centring on his perceived moderate positions, his environmental policies, his appointment of James E. C. Perry to the Supreme Court of Florida when conservatives favoured another candidate, his willingness to give President Obama "a shot", and his support of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.https://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/23/us/politics/23governors.html Governors' Fight Over Stimulus May Define G.O.P. The New York Times Robert Pear J. David Goodman February 22, 2009 May 25, 2014http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orange/orl-younggop2209feb22,0,6995357.story https://web.archive.org/web/20090225131810/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orange/orl-younggop2209feb22,0,6995357.story Jeb Bush's son chides Gov. Crist for seeking stimulus Orlando Sentinel February 22, 2009 May 25, 2014 February 25, 2009http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/apr/06/na-crist-facing-conservative-uprising/news-politics https://web.archive.org/web/20090408042757/http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/apr/06/na-crist-facing-conservative-uprising/news-politics Crist Facing Conservative Uprising The Tampa Tribune April 6, 2009 May 25, 2014 April 8, 2009 On March 5, Rubio formed an exploratory committee to run for the Senate, though Rubio said that he would run for governor instead if Crist ran for the Senate, with Crist saying that he would make a decision at the end of the legislative session in May.https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0309/Rubio_forms_Senate_exploratory_committee.html Rubio forms Senate exploratory committee Politico Josh Kraushaar March 5, 2009 May 25, 2014http://wokv.com/localnews/2009/04/congress-meek-campaigns-for-se.html https://web.archive.org/web/20090413085059/http://wokv.com/localnews/2009/04/congress-meek-campaigns-for-se.html Congress Meek Campaigns for Senate Seat WOKV Jared Halpern April 6, 2009 May 25, 2014 April 13, 2009 However, towards the end of March, Rubio began openly criticizing Crist for his support of the stimulus and expanded gambling.https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0309/Is_Rubio_criticizing_Crist.html Is Rubio criticizing Crist? Politico Josh Kraushaar March 20, 2009 May 25, 2014https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0309/Rubio_tweaks_Crist_on_Facebook.html Rubio tweaks Crist on Facebook Politico Josh Kraushaar March 24, 2009 May 25, 2014 In early April, Politico reported that Rubio was likely to stay in the Senate race even if Crist ran, following disapproval of Crist from the party's base. A Mason-Dixon poll from March/April found that only 23% of Republicans would "definitely" vote for Crist, compared to 18% who would "definitely not". During the first fundraising quarter, Rubio raised a "solid" $250,000https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0409/Rubio_raises_250K.html Rubio raises $250K Politico Josh Kraushaar April 14, 2009 May 25, 2014 and confirmed that he would likely continue his campaign, regardless of what Crist did.http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/in-shift-marco-rubio-is-willing-to-battle-charlie-crist-for-senate/992341 In shift, Marco Rubio is willing to battle Charlie Crist for Senate Tampa Bay Times April 14, 2009 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140526092559/http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/in-shift-marco-rubio-is-willing-to-battle-charlie-crist-for-senate/992341 May 26, 2014 dead mdy-all On April 2, Mack stated that he would not be a candidate, telling Crist: "I will be your strongest supporter and champion - regardless of whether you seek re-election or election to the Senate."http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/42337777.html US Rep. Mack Won't Seek Florida Senate Seat WJHG-TV April 2, 2009 May 25, 2014 May 26, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140526042342/http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/42337777.html dead An article in The Tampa Tribune reported on the growing opposition to Crist, which quoted, among others, former state representative Dennis K. Baxley, who said that the disappointment with Crist was "the kind of disappointment that's going to have people looking in other directions for leaders... the conservative movement needs a strong leader." Former Pinellas County Republican Party Chairman Tony DiMatteo said that Crist was more likely to receive a primary challenge to if he ran for the Senate because: "In Tallahassee, there's a conservative Republican Legislature to balance the governor... A lot of people around the state feel the same way I do. We didn't leave Charlie; Charlie left us." Conversely, Republican consultant Adam Goodman said: "He's looked upon as such a popular and compelling figure that the sky's the limit. There are always going to be people to his right and to his left both in the party and in general. As long as he maintains his anti-tax platform, he'll be fine." Political scientist Darryl Paulson said that "Given Crist's ability to raise substantial amounts of money and his appeal to crossovers and independents, I couldn't name anybody who would have even a reasonable shot at defeating him in a primary." A surprise entry into the race came on April 9, when former New Hampshire senator Bob Smith entered the race. Smith, who had lost his seat in New Hampshire in 2002, subsequently moved to Florida, and briefly ran for the Senate in 2004.http://thehill.com/campaign-2008/former-sen.-bob-smith-weighs-a-run--in-florida-2009-01-29.html https://web.archive.org/web/20090207084857/http://thehill.com/campaign-2008/former-sen.-bob-smith-weighs-a-run--in-florida-2009-01-29.html Former Sen. Bob Smith Weighs a Run... In Florida The Hill Aaron Blake January 29, 2009 May 25, 2014 February 7, 2009https://www.politico.com/blogs/on-congress/2009/04/snowbird-smith-running-in-florida-again-017459 Snowbird Smith running in Florida -- again Politico Glenn Thrush April 9, 2009 May 25, 2014 He formally declared his candidacy on June 8.https://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/09/us/politics/09smith.html Former Senator Seeking Old Job in New State The New York Times June 8, 2009 May 25, 2014 At the end of April, with Crist's decision nearing, he was reported to be a "near-lock" to run for the Senatehttp://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/senate/crist-nears-a-senate-decision.html https://web.archive.org/web/20130201061448/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/senate/crist-nears-a-senate-decision.html dead February 1, 2013 Crist Nears a Senate Decision The Washington Post Chris Cillizza April 27, 2009 May 25, 2014 and, in the wake of moderate Republican senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania's switch to the Democrats, speculation began about whether there was "room" in the party for a moderate like Crist.http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/gubernatorial/after-specters-switch-focus-turns-to-crists-future-in-gop/997754 After Specter's switch, focus turns to Crist's future in GOP Tampa Bay Times Chris Cillizza May 3, 2009 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140527213151/http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/gubernatorial/after-specters-switch-focus-turns-to-crists-future-in-gop/997754 May 27, 2014 dead mdy-all The National Republican Senatorial Committee endorsed Charlie Crist.https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0509/NRSC_to_endorse_Crist.html NRSC endorses Crist - The Scorecard Politico.Com June 14, 2010 After widespread speculation that he would resign before the end of his term,http://www.rollcall.com/news/31954-1.html Martinez Eyeing Early Exit as Crist Looks at Senate Seat Roll Call David M. Drucker February 2, 2009 Martínez stated that he would do so on August 7, 2009, leaving Crist in the position to appoint a replacement. He requested applications from U.S. Representative Lincoln Díaz-Balart, attorney Bob Martínez (no relation to Mel Martínez or former governor Bob Martinez) and former Florida Attorney General and Secretary of State of Florida James C. Smith. Appointing Díaz-Balart would create a special election for his then-open House seat and it was suggested that this would prove to be a "tempting proposition" for Rubio, who would then drop down to run for the House instead.http://www.rollcall.com/news/-37782-1.html Lincoln Diaz-Balart in Mix for Florida Senate Appointment Roll Call Lauren W. Whittington August 15, 2009 May 25, 2014http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2009/08/the-case-for-sen-lincoln-diazbalart.html The case for Sen. Lincoln Diaz-Balart The Miami Herald Beth Reinhard August 16, 2009 May 25, 2014 Rubio's campaign dismissed speculation he would do anything other than run for the Senate and Crist appointed his chief of staff, George LeMieux, to the Senate instead. Democrat Kendrick Meek expressed disappointment, asserting that Crist should have appointed someone qualified rather than one of the top names "in his cell phone." The Democratic Party of Florida issued an email the same day titled, "George LeMieux (R-Cronyism)", echoing the disapproval of Crist's choice, who was the Deputy Attorney General under Crist, and his chief of staff. In December, Lincoln Díaz-Balart and his brother Mario, also a U.S. Representative, withdrew their endorsements of Crist. They declined to reveal the reason why, saying that "the governor knows why we withdrew and he left us with no alternative", although it was suggested that Crist's appointment of LeMieux and his passing over of a prosecutor that Lincoln Díaz-Balart had recommended for a county judgeship in North Florida were the reasons.http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/broward/blog/2009/12/diazbalarts_yank_endorsement_o.html Diaz-Balarts yank endorsement of Crist for Senate Sun Sentinel Russell Small December 22, 2009 May 25, 2014 thumb|Christ and Rubio exchanging words at an August 2009 event in Kissimmee thumb|Rubio speaking at an August 2009 campaign event in TallahasseeFormer New Hampshire Senator Bob Smith, who had barely featured in opinion polls, withdrew from the race on March 30, 2010, citing poor fundraising.http://politicalinsider.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11105/smith-drops-out-of-senate-race-again https://web.archive.org/web/20110711163820/http://politicalinsider.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11105/smith-drops-out-of-senate-race-again Smith drops out of Senate race again Sarasota Herald-Tribune Jeremy Wallace March 30, 2010 May 25, 2014 July 11, 2011http://www.independentpoliticalreport.com/2010/04/bob-smith-ends-senate-race Bob Smith Ends Senate Race Independent Political Report Trent Hill April 23, 2010 May 25, 2014 After being behind in the polls, Rubio began to cut into Crist's lead, mostly as a reaction to Crist's support of the stimulus bill, which Rubio opposed.http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/feb/04/rubio-crists-stimulus-support-horrifying Rubio: Crist's stimulus support 'horrifying' The Washington Times February 4, 2009 Crist subsequently fell behind Rubio by over 20 points. On April 16, Crist's campaign manager, Connie Mack IV, resigned. Ostensibly as a reaction to Crist's veto of a controversial education bill that tied teacher's pay to their students' test scores, Crist's increasingly poor showing in the polls was widely speculated to have been a factor in Mack's decision.http://cbs4.com/local/Governor.Charlie.Crist.2.1636417.html Connie Mack Quits Crist Campaign CBS4.com April 15, 2010 April 17, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100421013406/http://cbs4.com/local/Governor.Charlie.Crist.2.1636417.html April 21, 2010 dead mdy-all Speculation began that Crist would drop out of the Republican primary and run as an independent before April 30, the Florida filing deadline. Polling showed that although Crist was trailing Rubio considerably in the Republican primary, were he to run as an independent, the three-way race would become more competitive; Rubio was leading Meek and Crist in aggregate three-way polling as of June 2010.http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2010/senate/fl/florida_senate_rubio_vs_meek_vs_crist-1456.html Election 2010 - Florida Senate - Rubio vs. Meek vs. Crist RealClearPolitics June 14, 2010 On April 28, Crist campaign officials confirmed that Crist would be running as an independent and planned to drop out of the Republican primary.http://liveshots.blogs.foxnews.com/2010/04/28/crist-to-run-as-independent-in-fl-sen-race Crist to Run as Independent in FL Sen Race « Liveshots Fox News April 28, 2010 June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100503140412/http://liveshots.blogs.foxnews.com/2010/04/28/crist-to-run-as-independent-in-fl-sen-race/ May 3, 2010 dead mdy-all http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/28/crist-to-run-for-senate-as-independent-candidate CNN Crist to run for Senate as independent candidate May 27, 2010 May 1, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100501151249/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/28/crist-to-run-for-senate-as-independent-candidate/? dead thumb|Rubio campaigning in Orlando in January 2010 The primary was held on August 24, 2010. Running virtually unopposed, Rubio won with almost 85% of the vote. Candidates These candidates formally qualified to appear on the Florida Republican primary ballot. William Escoffery, physician and attorney William Billy Kogut, realtorhttp://www.ourcampaigns.com/CandidateDetail.html?CandidateID=45591 Our Campaigns - Candidate - William Billy Kogut Marco Rubio, former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives Endorsements Charlie Crist All made while Crist was running as a Republican State/local officeholders Mayor of Miami-Dade County Carlos Alvarez https://web.archive.org/web/20090726124938/http://www.charliecrist.com/news/press-releases/miami-dade-county-mayor-carlos-alvarez-endorses-charlie-crist-for-senate July 26, 2009 Former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida Al Cárdenas. Florida House of Representatives Speaker designate Dean Cannon of Winter ParkFlorida House GOP Leaders Endorse Charlie Crist for the United States Senate http://www.charliecrist.com/news/press-releases/florida-house-gop-leaders-endorse-charlie-crist-for-the-united-states-senate September 26, 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090914200758/http://www.charliecrist.com/news/press-releases/florida-house-gop-leaders-endorse-charlie-crist-for-the-united-states-senate September 14, 2009 State Representative Chris Dorworth of Lake Mary State Representative Ron Reagan of Bradenton State Representative Bill Galvano of Bradenton State Representative Ritch Workman of Melbourne State Representative Steve Crisafulli of Merritt Island State Representative Juan C. Zapata of Miami State Representative Ed Hooper of Clearwater State Representative Julio Robaina of Miami State Representative Marcelo Llorente of Miami State Representative Jimmy Patronis of Panama City State Representative John Tobia of Satellite Beach State Representative Nick Thompson of Fort Myers State Representative Carl Domino of Jupiter State Senator Mike Fasano of Florida's 11th District State Senator Dennis Jones of Florida's 13th District State Senator Durrell Peaden of Florida's 2nd District State Senator Rudy Garcia of Florida's 40th District State Senator Charles Dean of Florida's 3rd District State Senator Lee Constantine of Florida's 22nd District State Senator Alex Villalobos of Florida's 38th District State Senator Don Gaetz of Florida's 4th District State Senator Victor Crist of Florida's 12th District State Senator Evelyn Lynn of Florida's 7th District Federal officeholders Former U.S. Senator Mel Martínezhttp://www.charliecrist.com/news/endorsements Endorsements: Charlie Crist for United States Senate 2010 June 25, 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090611065021/http://www.charliecrist.com/news/endorsements June 11, 2009 U.S. Senator from Tennessee Lamar Alexander U.S. Senator and Minority Leader from Kentucky Mitch McConnell U.S. Senator and 2008 Republican nominee for President from Arizona John McCain U.S. Senator from South Carolina Lindsey Graham U.S. Senator and chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee from Texas John Cornyn U.S. Senator from Arizona Jon Kyl Congressman Connie Mack IV of Florida https://web.archive.org/web/20090726022741/http://www.charliecrist.com/news/press-releases/congressman-connie-mack-endorses-charlie-crist-for-senate July 26, 2009 Congressman Vern Buchanan of FloridaCongressman Vern Buchanan Endorses Charlie Crist for United States Senate http://www.charliecrist.com/news/press-releases/congressman-vern-buchanan-endorses-charlie-crist-for-united-states-senate September 26, 2016 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090730064143/http://www.charliecrist.com/news/press-releases/congressman-vern-buchanan-endorses-charlie-crist-for-united-states-senate July 30, 2009 Others RNC (Republican National Committee) National Committeeman Paul Senft National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) Fraternal Order of Police Police Benevolent Association Florida Dental Hygiene Association National Association of Realtors Fraternal Order of Police Florida Association of State Troopers (FAST) Retired Colonel and Medal of Honor recipient involved in Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, Bud Dayhttp://www.nwfdailynews.com/articles/day-27423-charlie-senate.html Bud Day endorses Charlie Crist day, charlie, senate - Election News - Northwest Florida Daily News Nwfdailynews.com March 29, 2010 June 14, 2010 Donald Trumphttp://www.politifact.com/florida/statements/2015/aug/07/marco-rubio/marco-rubio-says-donald-trump-supported-charlie-cr Marco Rubio says that Donald Trump supported Charlie Crist September 26, 2016 All made while Crist was running as an Independent State/local officeholders Former Congressman Robert Wexler of Florida Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California State Representative Ed Homan of Tampa Former Democratic Candidate for Florida's 5th congressional district John Russell State Senator Al Lawson of Tallahassee Former Mayor Dick Greco of Tampa Former State Senator Skip Campbell of Tamarac Marco Rubio State/local officeholders Governor of Puerto Rico Luis FortuñoPuerto Rico Governor Luis Fortuño Endorses Marco Rubio For U.S. Senate https://web.archive.org/web/20100608204609/http://www.marcorubio.com/puerto-rico-governor-luis-fortuno-endorses-marco-rubio-for-u-s-senate June 8, 2010 May 6, 2010. Retrieved May 7, 2010. Former Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas Former Governor Mitt Romney of Massachusettshttps://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gTukcfTSVtJlwIXLYjPrfXa0j54AD9F4D0201 April 17, 2010 dead Romney to endorse Rubio over Crist for Fla. Senate https://web.archive.org/web/20100419175438/https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gTukcfTSVtJlwIXLYjPrfXa0j54AD9F4D0201 April 19, 2010 Former Governor Jeb Bush of Floridahttp://www.marcorubio.com/governor-jeb-bush-endorses-marco-rubio-for-u-s-senate https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20101001135121/http://www.marcorubio.com/governor-jeb-bush-endorses-marco-rubio-for-u-s-senate/ dead October 1, 2010 Marco Rubio for US Senate Marcorubio.com June 14, 2010 Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giulianihttp://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/02/giuliani-backs-rubio-over-crist-in-florida-contest/?fbid=iA5EGLCIJo9 CNN Giuliani backs Rubio over Crist in Florida contest May 27, 2010 October 5, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121005224059/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/02/giuliani-backs-rubio-over-crist-in-florida-contest/?fbid=iA5EGLCIJo9 dead State Senator Steve Oelrichhttp://www.gainesville.com/article/20091105/ARTICLES/911059853/1002/NEWS01?Title=Crist-Rubio-spar-at-local-Republican-fundraiser Crist, Rubio spar at local Republican fundraiser Gainesville.com November 5, 2009 June 14, 2010 State Representative Steve Precourthttp://vodpod.com/watch/1862816-steve-precourt-endorses-marco-rubio-at-orlando-tea-party Steve Precourt Endorses Marco Rubio at Orlando Tea Party Video Vodpod.com June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20110716120758/http://vodpod.com/watch/1862816-steve-precourt-endorses-marco-rubio-at-orlando-tea-party July 16, 2011 dead mdy-all State Representative Will Weatherford of Wesley ChapelFebruary 2011 Federal officeholders Former Vice President Dick Cheneyhttp://www.wibw.com/nationalnews/headlines/91833734.html Cheney Endorses Rubio For Senate Wibw.com April 22, 2010 June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100426123832/http://www.wibw.com/nationalnews/headlines/91833734.html April 26, 2010 dead mdy-all Congressman Jeff Miller of Floridahttp://www.jaxobserver.com/2009/06/27/congressman-miller-endorses-rubio-in-senate-gop-primary-race Congressman Miller Endorses Rubio in Senate Primary Race The Jacksonville Observer Jaxobserver.com June 27, 2009 June 14, 2010 June 29, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090629071643/http://www.jaxobserver.com/2009/06/27/congressman-miller-endorses-rubio-in-senate-gop-primary-race/ dead Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite of Florida Wilson Reid Brown-Waite endorses Rubio in Senate race The Hill September 17, 2009 https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/50527-brown-waite-endorses-rubio-in-senate-race/ September 17, 2009 Congressman Eric Cantor of VirginiaCantor Endorses Rubio in Florida Senate Race FOXNews.com April 20, 2010. Retrieved April 20, 2010. Congressman Mike Pence of IndianaJOSH KRAUSHAAR https://www.politico.com/story/2010/02/pence-endorses-rubio-032697 Pence endorses Rubio - Jessica Taylor Politico.Com March 9, 2010 June 14, 2010 Congressman Paul Ryan of WisconsinDavis Susan https://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2010/01/06/floridas-rubio-gets-endorsement-from-wisconsins-rep-ryan Florida's Rubio Gets Endorsement from Wisconsin's Rep. Ryan - Washington Wire - WSJ Blogs.wsj.com January 6, 2010 June 14, 2010 Congressman Christopher Smith of New Jersey Congressman Tom Price of GeorgiaMcArdle John http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/eyeon2010/2010/03/coburn-endorses-rubio.html Florida: Coburn Endorses Rubio - The Eye (CQ Politics) Blogs.cqpolitics.com March 31, 2010 June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100406061447/http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/eyeon2010/2010/03/coburn-endorses-rubio.html April 6, 2010 dead mdy-all U.S. Senator from South Carolina Jim DeMinthttps://www.politico.com/story/2009/06/senator-endorses-crist-opponent-023754 Jim DeMint backs Marco Rubio in Florida governor race - Manu Raju June 15, 2009 Politico.Com June 14, 2010 U.S. Senator from Oklahoma James Inhofehttp://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2009/10/jim-inhofe-or-the-pba-you-decide.html Jim Inhofe or the PBA? You decide… – Central Florida Political Pulse – Orlando Sentinel Blogs.orlandosentinel.com October 20, 2009 June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20091023064055/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2009/10/jim-inhofe-or-the-pba-you-decide.html October 23, 2009 dead mdy-all U.S. Senator from Oklahoma Tom Coburnhttp://liveshots.blogs.foxnews.com/2010/03/31/coburn-endorsing-marco-rubio-for-senate/?test=latestnews Coburn Endorsing Marco Rubio for Senate « Liveshots Fox News March 31, 2010 June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100406022515/http://liveshots.blogs.foxnews.com/2010/03/31/coburn-endorsing-marco-rubio-for-senate/?test=latestnews April 6, 2010 dead mdy-all Former U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania Rick SantorumEric Kleefeld http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/04/gingrich-endorses-rubio-in-florida-senate-race.php Gingrich Endorses Rubio In Florida Senate Race TPMDC Tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com April 23, 2010 June 14, 2010 June 24, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100624101043/http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/04/gingrich-endorses-rubio-in-florida-senate-race.php dead Former House Majority Leader Dick Armeyjoel frewa says http://www.marcorubio.com/former-u-s-house-majority-leader-dick-armey-endorses-marco-rubio-for-u-s-senate https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20101001140836/http://www.marcorubio.com/former-u-s-house-majority-leader-dick-armey-endorses-marco-rubio-for-u-s-senate/ dead October 1, 2010 Marco Rubio for US Senate Marcorubio.com July 14, 2009 June 14, 2010 Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich Others Former President George W. Bush's political adviser Karl RoveChuck Todd http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2009/10/05/2089960.aspx https://web.archive.org/web/20091007231649/http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2009/10/05/2089960.aspx dead October 7, 2009 First Read - Rove for Rubio MSNBC October 5, 2009 June 14, 2010 Prominent conservative author and talk show host Mark Levinhttp://marklevinshow.com/sectional.asp?id=32930# Mark Levin Marklevinshow.com June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100612221403/http://www.marklevinshow.com/sectional.asp?id=32930 June 12, 2010 dead mdy-all Prominent conservative talk show host Laura Ingrahamhttp://209.157.64.200/focus/f-news/2256630/posts Laura Ingraham to Hold Event(s) for Florida's Marco Rubio 209.157.64.200 June 14, 2010 May 29, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110529233356/http://209.157.64.200/focus/f-news/2256630/posts dead Jeb Bush Jr.https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2009/05/2010-the-friskier-jeb-bush-endorses-marco-rubio/18344 2010: The Friskier Jeb Bush Endorses Marco Rubio The Atlantic May 27, 2009 June 14, 2010 George P. Bushhttp://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/11/jeb-jr-and-george-p-bush-raising-money-for-marco-rubio.html https://web.archive.org/web/20091113082619/http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/11/jeb-jr-and-george-p-bush-raising-money-for-marco-rubio.html dead November 13, 2009 Jeb Jr. and George P Bush raising money for Marco Rubio Blogs.tampabay.com November 10, 2009 June 14, 2010 Family Research Council President Tony Perkinshttps://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS211011+05-Nov-2009+PRN20091105 https://archive.today/20120913194715/http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS211011+05-Nov-2009+PRN20091105 dead September 13, 2012 FRC Action PAC Endorses Marco Rubio for U.S. Senate Reuters November 5, 2009 June 14, 2010 Americans for Tax Reform President Grover NorquistWHAT FELLOW CONSERVATIVES HAVE TO SAY ABOUT MARCO'S RECORD http://www.marcorubio.com/the-facts November 18, 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20091112014842/http://www.marcorubio.com/the-facts November 12, 2009 President of the Club for Growth Chris ChocolaJune 2010 Former Republican presidential candidate Steve Forbeshttp://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2010/01/steve-forbes-endorses-rubio.html https://archive.today/20120707055818/http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2010/01/steve-forbes-endorses-rubio.html dead July 7, 2012 Steve Forbes endorses Rubio Blogs.tampabay.com January 28, 2010 June 14, 2010 Eagle Forum PAChttp://www.eagleforum.org/election/endorse-2010.html Candidates Endorsed By Eagle Forum PAC 2010 Eagleforum.org November 15, 2009 June 14, 2010 The Republican Revolution (Facebook Club)http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/The-Republican-Revolution/224768044026?ref=ts Niet compatibele browser Facebook June 14, 2010 Florida Medical Associationhttp://www.fmaonline.org/FMA_PAC_Recommends_Marco_Rubio_for_US_Senate_Race.aspx FMA PAC Unanimously Recommends Marco Rubio for US Senate Race June 26, 2010 July 30, 2010 June 2024 InternetArchiveBot yes Polling Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Margin oferror CharlieCrist MarcoRubio Other UndecidedQuinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac UniversityApril 8–13, 2010497± 4.4%33% 56%1%10%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsApril 8, 2010500± 4.5%28% 57%3%12%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsMarch 18, 2010494± 4.5%34% 56%1%8%The Florida Times UnionThe Florida Times UnionMarch 9, 2010512± 4.0%26% 60%4%––Public Policy PollingPublic Policy PollingMarch 5–8, 2010492± 4.4%28% 60%––12%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsFebruary 18, 2010442± 5.0%36% 54%4%7%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsJanuary 27, 2010449± 5.0%37% 49%3%11%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac UniversityJanuary 26, 2010673± 3.8%44% 47%––8%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsDecember 14, 2009431± 5.0%43%43%5%9%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsOctober 20, 2009466± 4.5% 49%35%4%12%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac UniversityOctober 12–18, 2009396± 4.9% 50%35%1%12%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen ReportsAugust 19, 2009470± 5.0% 53%31%5%11%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac UniversityAugust 12–17, 2009446± 4.6% 55%26%1%18%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac UniversityJune 2–7, 2009486± 4.5% 54%23%1%21% background:#cff Hypothetical polling border:solid 1px silver; padding:8px; background:var(--background-color-base); color:var(--color-base) Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error AllanBense VernBuchanan CharlieCrist ConnieMack IV BillMcCollum MarcoRubio Other Undecided Quinnipiachttp://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1284.xml?ReleaseID=1287&What=&strArea=;&strTime=0 https://web.archive.org/web/20090418181533/http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1284.xml?ReleaseID=1287&What=&strArea=;&strTime=0 Republican Disapproval Up, But Obama Strong In Florida, Quinnipiac University Poll Finds; Voters Want Crist To Stay In Tallahassee Quinnipiac University Polling Institute April 16, 2009 May 25, 2014 April 18, 2009 April 6–13, 2009 570 ± 4.1% 2% 8% 54% — — 8% 2% 27% 3% 16% — — — 11% 2% 68% Quinnipiachttp://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1297.xml?ReleaseID=1264 https://web.archive.org/web/20090227050023/http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1297.xml?ReleaseID=1264 Florida's Crist Has Pick Of Gov. Or Senate Race, Quinnipiac University Poll Finds; Voters Back Seminole Casino Plan Quinnipiac University Polling Institute February 18, 2009 May 25, 2014 February 27, 2009 February 11–16, 2009 433 ± 4.7% 2% 5% 53% 13% — 3% 2% 22% 4% 11% — 34% — 6% 2% 43% Quinnipiachttp://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1297.xml?ReleaseID=1249 https://web.archive.org/web/20090124210445/http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1297.xml?ReleaseID=1249 Florida Voters Like Gov. Crist As Much As Obama, Quinnipiac University Poll Finds; U.S. Senate Race Is Cloudy With Unknown Candidates Quinnipiac University Polling Institute January 21, 2009 May 25, 2014 January 24, 2009 January 14–19, 2009 522 ± 4.3% 2% 10% — 21% 22% 6% — 40% Results Republican primary resultsAugust 24, 2010 Primary Election https://results.elections.myflorida.com/Index.asp?ElectionDate=8/24/2010&DATAMODE= Florida Department of State - Division of Elections Marco Rubio Republican Party (United States) 1,069,936 84.62% William Kogut Republican Party (United States) 112,080 8.86% William Escoffery Republican Party (United States) 82,426 6.52% 1,264,442 100.0% Democratic primary Background Many Democratic politicians were mentioned as potential candidates for the race, including U.S. Representatives Allen Boyd, Kathy Castor, Ron Klein, Kendrick Meek, Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Robert Wexler, State Senators Dave Aronberg and Dan Gelber and Mayor of Orlando Buddy Dyer. Alex Sink also reconsidered her decision not to run. Wasserman Schultz and Wexler stated in December 2008 that they would not run for the Senate. thumb|Meek campaigning in Jacksonville in August 2009 Meek was the first major candidate of either party to declare his candidacy, on January 13, 2009.http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/sources-rep.-meek-to-enter-senate-race-2009-01-12.html https://web.archive.org/web/20090116022018/http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/sources-rep.-meek-to-enter-senate-race-2009-01-12.html Sources: Rep. Meek to enter Senate race The Hill January 12, 2009 May 25, 2014 January 16, 2009 After "serious and careful thought", three days later, Sink reiterated her decision not to seek a Senate seat.http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/01/sink-is-out-of.html https://web.archive.org/web/20090122090920/http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/01/sink-is-out-of.html Sink won't seek Senate seat Tampa Bay Times January 16, 2009 May 25, 2014 January 22, 2009 Following her decision, Dan Gelber said that he "had been really waiting for her" and had been "prepared to fully support [her]." He also said that "I expect I'll be entering the race in the coming weeks."http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2009-01-16/news/0901260190_1_gelber-steve-schale-senate Sink rejects 2010 U.S. Senate bid, plans to run again for CFO post Sun-Sentinel Russell Small January 16, 2009 May 25, 2014 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140525195808/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2009-01-16/news/0901260190_1_gelber-steve-schale-senate dead On January 27, he declared his candidacy.http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/content/gelber-jumping-senate-race Gelber jumping into Senate race Tampa Bay Times Adam C. Smith January 29, 2009 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140526044918/http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/content/gelber-jumping-senate-race May 26, 2014 dead mdy-all The following day, Allen Boyd also declined to run. In March, it was reported that while Gelber was "consumed" with the legislative session, Meek was raising money and collecting endorsements, including from former president Bill Clinton. Gelber replied, "Frankly the practicality is, it's just hard to find hours in the day to make phone calls right now."http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/florida-democrat-kendrick-meek-builds-support-war-chest-for-senate-run/982110 Florida Democrat Kendrick Meek builds support, war chest for Senate run Tampa Bay Times March 7, 2009 May 25, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140526042234/http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/florida-democrat-kendrick-meek-builds-support-war-chest-for-senate-run/982110 May 26, 2014 dead mdy-all At the end of the first fundraising quarter, Meek reported raising $1.5 million.http://www.rollcall.com/news/-33722-1.html Meek to Report $1.5 Million 1st-Quarter Haul Roll Call John McArdle April 1, 2009 May 25, 2014 He also decided to gain ballot access via petitions, rather than paying the standard filing fee. He said that collecting the required 100,000 petitions would "keep me engaged with the people of Florida". Congressman Kendrick Meek was the first Democrat to declare his intention to run.http://www.pnj.com/article/20090615/NEWS01/90615017 Endorsements already rolling out for 2010 races pnj.com - Pensacola News Journal June 16, 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090618054248/http://www.pnj.com/article/20090615/NEWS01/90615017 June 18, 2009 Upon Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink's decision to run for governor,https://www.politico.com/blogs/scorecard/0109/Sink_not_running_for_Senate.html Sink Not Running For Senate Politico January 9, 2009 State Senator Dan Gelber formed an exploratory committee.http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2009/01/with-sink-out-g.html With Sink out, Gelber getting into the Senate race Aaron Deslatte Orlando Sentinel January 16, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090119012650/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2009/01/with-sink-out-g.html January 19, 2009 However, Gelber ultimately decided not to run, so as to avoid a divisive primary. Congressman Meek enlisted the aid of former President Bill Clinton, who hosted a fundraiser for him in Jacksonville.http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/03/bill-clinton-ra.html https://web.archive.org/web/20090308235343/http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2009/03/bill-clinton-ra.html dead March 8, 2009 Bill Clinton raising more money for Meek Adam Smith St. Petersburg Times March 4, 2009 Term limited North Miami mayor Kevin Burns, also declared himself a candidate for the Senate seat.http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami_dade/northeast/story/906176.html Ex-North Miami mayor to seek Senate Seat Miami Herald February 16, 2009 On April 30, 2010, Palm Beach billionaire Jeff Greene declared his candidacy.January 2024 thumb|Maurice Ferré campaigning at a July 2010 picnic hosted in Tallahassee by the Democratic Club of North Florida The primary took place on August 24, 2010.http://election.dos.state.fl.us/voting/voting-info.shtml General Voting Information State of Florida March 6, 2010 March 6, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100317083239/http://election.dos.state.fl.us/voting/voting-info.shtml March 17, 2010 dead mdy-all Candidates These candidates formally qualified to appear on the Florida Democratic primary ballot.http://election.dos.state.fl.us/candidate/CanList.asp Official State of Florida Division of Elections Website Election.dos.state.fl.us June 14, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100831154715/http://election.dos.state.fl.us/candidate/CanList.asp August 31, 2010 dead mdy-all Glenn A. Burkett, businessman Maurice Ferré, former mayor of Miami Jeff Greene, businessman Kendrick Meek, U.S. representative Endorsements Jeff GreeneOur Campaigns - FL US Senate - D Primary Race - Aug 24, 2010http://www.jeffgreene.com/news/item/2010-06-jeff-greene-picks-up-endorsements-following-democrati Jeff Greene Picks Up Endorsements Following Democratic Debate Jeffgreene.com June 24, 2010 November 3, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100815003318/http://www.jeffgreene.com/news/item/2010-06-jeff-greene-picks-up-endorsements-following-democrati August 15, 2010 dead mdy-all Joseph Abruzzo, state rep. Joe Angelo, city commissioner of Wilton Manors Carol Roberts, former mayor of West Palm Beach James Waldman, state rep.http://www.jeffgreene.com/news/item/2010-08-jeff-greene-endorsed-by-state-representative-jim-wald Jeff Greene Endorsed By State Representative Jim Waldman Jeffgreene.com August 12, 2010 November 3, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20110713101129/http://www.jeffgreene.com/news/item/2010-08-jeff-greene-endorsed-by-state-representative-jim-wald July 13, 2011 dead mdy-all Bradenton Heraldhttp://www.bradenton.com/2010/08/12/2499611_we-recommend-jeff-greene-dem-us.html We recommend: Jeff Greene, Dem., U.S. Senate BRADENTON HERALD EDITORIAL Political outsider's business skills are a plus - Our Take - BradentonHerald.com Bradenton.com August 12, 2010 November 3, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20110807054658/http://www.bradenton.com/2010/08/12/2499611_we-recommend-jeff-greene-dem-us.html August 7, 2011 dead mdy-all Kendrick MeekEndorsements | Kendrick Meek https://web.archive.org/web/20101001004256/https://donate.kendrickmeek.com/content/endorsements October 1, 2010 Barack Obama, U.S. president Joseph Biden, U.S. vice president Bill Nelson, U.S. senator (D-FL) Corrine Brown, U.S. congresswoman Kathy Castor, U.S. congresswoman Ted Deutch, U.S. congressman Alan Grayson, U.S. congressmanhttp://www.kendrickmeek.com/index.php/weblog/archive/kendrick_meek_kicks_off_real_dem_express_bus_tour_at_rally_in_orlando Kicks Off Real Dem Express Bus Tour At Rally in Orlando Kendrick Meek February 12, 2010 November 3, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20101105012113/http://www.kendrickmeek.com/index.php/weblog/archive/kendrick_meek_kicks_off_real_dem_express_bus_tour_at_rally_in_orlando/ November 5, 2010 dead mdy-all Allen Boyd, U.S. congressman Alcee Hastings, U.S. congressman Ron Klein, U.S. congressman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, U.S. congresswoman Bill Clinton, former U.S. president Bob Graham, former U.S. senator and governor Alex Sink, Florida CFO Al Sharpton, Civil rights activist and reverend Congressional Hispanic Caucus members Representative from California and Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus Xavier Becerra Representative from Texas Charles A. Gonzalez Representative from Texas Rubén Hinojosa Representative from Colorado John Salazar Representative from California Joe Baca Representative from California Dennis Cardoza Representative from California Jim Costa Representative from Texas Henry Cuellar Representative from Arizona Raúl M. Grijalva Representative from Illinois Luis V. Gutierrez Representative from New Mexico Ben Ray Luján Representative from Texas Solomon P. Ortiz Representative from Arizona Ed Pastor Representative from Puerto Rico Pedro Pierluisi Representative from Texas Silvestre Reyes Representative from Texas Ciro Rodriguez Representative from California Lucille Roybal-Allard Representative from California Linda Sánchez Representative from New York Jose Serrano Representative from New Jersey Albio Sires Organizations American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employeeshttp://briefingroom.thehill.com/2009/04/13/afscme-backs-meek-in-senate-bid https://web.archive.org/web/20090416021125/http://briefingroom.thehill.com/2009/04/13/afscme-backs-meek-in-senate-bid AFSCME backs Meek in Senate bid The Hill April 13, 2009 May 25, 2014 April 16, 2009 Florida Service Employees International Union International Union of Painters and Allied Tradeshttp://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2009/03/meek-gets-another-endorsement.html Meek gets another endorsement Miami Herald Beth Reinhard March 12, 2009 May 25, 2014 United Teachers of Dade Polling Poll source Date(s)administered GlennBurkett MauriceFerré JeffGreene KendrickMeekQuinnipiacQuinnipiac August 21–22, 2010 –– 3% 29% 39%Public Policy PollingPublic Policy PollingAugust 21–22, 2010––4%27% 51%Mason-DixonMason-Dixon July 2016 InternetArchiveBot yes August 17–19, 2010––5%30% 42%QuinnipiacQuinnipiacAugust 11–16, 2010––6%28% 35%Ipsos/Florida NewspapersIpsos/Florida Newspapers August 2024 medicmedicAugust 6–10, 2010––4% 35%31%Mason DixonMason DixonAugust 2–4, 2010––––29% 33%QuinnipiacQuinnipiacJuly 22–27, 2010––4% 33%23%Public Policy PollingPublic Policy PollingJuly 16–18, 20104%6%25% 28%QuinnipiacQuinnipiacJune 2–8, 2010––3%27% 29% background:#cff Hypothetical polling border:solid 1px silver; padding:8px; background:var(--background-color-base); color:var(--color-base) Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error AllenBoyd DanGelber PamIorio RonKlein KendrickMeek AlexSink Other Undecided Quinnipiac April 6–13, 2009 474 ± 4.5% — 5% 15 8% 16% — — 55% Quinnipiac February 11–16, 2009 367 ± 5.1% — 5% 16% 14% 16% — 2% 47%Research 2000Research 2000 January 26–28, 2009 400 ± 5% 8% 3% — — 17% — — 72% Quinnipiac January 14–19, 2009 442 ± 4.7% 8% 1% — 9% 13% 15%Poll was in the field when Sink decided against seeking a Senate seat — 54% Results thumb|County results Democratic primary resultshttps://www.politico.com/2010/maps/#/Senate/2010/FL The 2010 Results Maps Politico.Com November 3, 2010 August 23, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100823031212/http://www.politico.com/2010/maps/#/Senate/2010/FL dead Kendrick Meek Democratic Party (United States) 528,266 57.53% Jeff Greene Democratic Party (United States) 284,948 31.03% Glenn Burkett Democratic Party (United States) 59,840 6.52% Maurice Ferré Democratic Party (United States) 45,219 4.92% 918,273 100.0% General election Candidates Major These candidates had received at least 5% in pre-election polling. Charlie Crist (I), governor Kendrick Meek (D), U.S. representative Marco Rubio (R), former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives Minor Qualified either by paying filing fee or with the 112,446 signatures to appear on ballot. Lewis Jerome Armstrong (I) Sue Askeland (I) Bobbie Bean (I) Bernie DeCastro (Constitution) Bruce Ray Riggs (I) Alexander Snitker (Libertarian)http://snitker2010.com Alex Snitker for Senate 2010 Florida's Liberty Candidate Snitker2010.com June 14, 2010http://www.independentpoliticalreport.com/2010/04/florida-us-senate-election-libertarians-qualify-for-first-time-democrats-petition-way-on-major-republican-may-switch-to-independent Florida US Senate election: Libertarians qualify for first time, Democrat petitions way on, major Republican may switch to independent April 23, 2010 Independent Political Report June 14, 2010 Rick Tyler (I) Write-ins These candidates qualified for the general election as write-in candidates. Piotr Blass George Drake Howard Knepper Carol Ann Joyce LaRosa Richard Lock Robert Monroe Belinda Quarterman-Noah Campaign Musician David Byrne sues Florida governor over campaign song thumb|Rubio (center) speaks at an October 2010 rally in Orlando, accompanied by RNC Chairman Michael Steele (seated at left) and Florida Republican Party Chairman John Thrasher (seated at right) thumb|Crist (right) accepting an endorsement from Al Lawson (left) Charlie Crist argued, "If you want somebody on the far right, you get Marco Rubio. If you want someone on the far left, you have Kendrick Meek. If you want someone who will fight for you and apply common sense, you have me."http://www.wtsp.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=151189&catid=250 Meek, Rubio, Crist take each other on in debate Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota WTSP.com November 3, 2010http://cbs4.com/campaign2010/us.senate.debate.2.1950477.html Gloves Come Off In Florida U.S. Senate Debate cbs4.com October 6, 2010 November 3, 2010 December 2018 InternetArchiveBot yes Meek said, "Marco Rubio has always been the Tea Party candidate and yesterday Charlie Crist says he wants to crash the Tea Party, too. I'm the only candidate who's fighting for the middle class."https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2010/10/sorry-charlie-kendrick-meek-does-not-plan-on-dropping-out/64306 Sorry, Charlie: Kendrick Meek Does Not Plan on Dropping Out - Nicole Allan - Politics The Atlantic October 8, 2010 November 3, 2010 Rubio argued, "If you like 'Obamacare,' if you like the stimulus plan, you can vote for Charlie Crist or Kendrick Meek."http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/oct/07/na-senatedebate-is-round-robin-of-rhetoric Senatedebate is round robin of rhetoric .tbo.com October 7, 2010 November 3, 2010 It was reported that former President Bill Clinton attempted to convince Meek to drop out of the race in October while they campaigned together, as Meek and Crist appeared to be splitting the Democratic vote, allowing Rubio to win.https://www.politico.com/story/2010/10/clinton-pushed-meek-to-quit-fla-race-044337 Bill Clinton pushed Kendrick Meek to quit Florida race - Ben Smith October 28, 2010 Politico.Com November 3, 2010 Meek denied the report.Evan McMorris-Santoro http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/10/report-kendrick-meek-agreed-to-drop-fl-sen-bid-changed-mind.php Democrat Meek Denies Agreeing To Clinton-Arranged Deal To Drop FL-SEN Bid And Endorse Charlie Crist TPMDC Tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com October 28, 2010 November 3, 2010 August 2026 InternetArchiveBot In the final week of the campaign, an advisor confirmed that Crist would caucus with the Democrats if elected to the Senate.Wallsten Peter https://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2010/10/29/crist-would-caucus-with-democrats-advisor-says Crist Would Caucus With Democrats, Advisor Says - Washington Wire - WSJ Blogs.wsj.com October 29, 2010 November 3, 2010 Debates thumb|Meek arriving at the WFTV studio for a debate Friday, September 17 WLTV-Univision 23 Debate Miami, FL Tuesday, September 28 WTVT-FOX 13 Tampa Bay Debate Tampa, FL Wednesday, October 6 ABC News, WFTV-ABC 9 Orlando & WFTS-ABC 28 Tampa Moderated by George Stephanopoulos and two local media panelistsDemocracy 2010: Florida Senate Debate https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTAWZVYlXuU YouTube September 2, 2026 October 6, 2010 Orlando, FL Wednesday, October 20 Leadership Florida Debate Ft. Lauderdale, FL Sunday, October 24 CNN/St. Petersburg Times Debate Moderated by Candy Crowley Tampa, FL Tuesday, October 26 NBC News & WESH-NBC 2 Orlando Debate Moderated by David Gregory Orlando, FL Predictions Source Ranking As of Cook Political Reporthttp://cookpolitical.com/senate Senate Cook Political Report October 26, 2010 Solid R October 26, 2010 Rothenberghttp://rothenbergpoliticalreport.com/ratings/senate Senate Ratings Rothenberg Political Report October 26, 2010 Safe R October 22, 2010 RealClearPoliticshttp://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2010/senate/2010_elections_senate_map.html Battle for the Senate RealClearPolitics October 26, 2010 Likely R October 26, 2010 Sabato's Crystal Ballhttp://www.centerforpolitics.org/crystalball/articles/category/2010-senate 2010 Senate Ratings Sabato's Crystal Ball October 26, 2010 October 28, 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20101028092918/http://www.centerforpolitics.org/crystalball/articles/category/2010-senate/ dead Safe R October 21, 2010 CQ Politicshttp://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?docID=ratings-senate Race Ratings Chart: Senate CQ Politics October 26, 2010 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20101028234525/http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?docID=ratings-senate October 28, 2010 Likely R October 26, 2010 Polling Graphical summary Opinion polling for the 2010 United States Senate election in Florida.chart Opinion polling for the 2010 United States Senate election in Florida.tab 700px Poll source Date(s)administered Margin oferror CharlieCrist (I) MarcoRubio (R) KendrickMeek (D)Public Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling October 30–31, 2010 ± 3.5% 30% 47% 21%Sunshine State News/VSSSunshine State News/VSS October 30–31, 2010 ± 2.49% 31% 48% 20%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac University October 25–31, 2010 ± 3.2% 31% 45% 18%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports October 27, 2010 ± 4.0% 30% 50% 16%Sunshine State News/VSSSunshine State News/VSS October 26–27, 2010 ± 2.47% 27% 47% 23%Mason-Dixonhttps://archive.today/20130130232809/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/os-mason-dixon-senate-race-20101029,0,4028841.story Mason-Dixon October 25–27, 2010 ± 4.0% 28% 45% 21%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac University October 18–24, 2010 ± 3.5% 35% 42% 15%ZogbyZogby October 18–21, 2010 ± 3.5% 33% 40% 18%St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9 October 15–19, 2010 ± 4.1% 26% 41% 20%CNN/Time/Opinion ResearchCNN/Time/Opinion Research October 15–19, 2010 ± 2.5% 32% 46% 20%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports October 18, 2010 ± 4.0% 32% 43% 20%Suffolk UniversitySuffolk University https://web.archive.org/web/20101022152714/http://www.suffolk.edu/44188.html October 22, 2010 October 14–17, 2010 ± 4.4% 31% 39% 22%Public Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling October 9–10, 2010 ± 4.6% 33% 44% 21%Sunshine State News/VSSSunshine State News/VSS October 6–10, 2010 ± 4.6% 33% 44% 21%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac University October 6–10, 2010 ± 3.0% 29% 45% 22%Rasmussen Reports October 7, 2010 ± 4.0% 25% 50% 19%Mason DixonMason Dixon October 4–6, 2010 ± 4.0% 27% 42% 21%Public Opinion StrategiesPublic Opinion Strategies September 27–30, 2010 ± 3.46% 33% 40% 16%Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac University September 30, 2010 ± 2.9% 33% 46% 18%CNN/TimeCNN/Time September 30, 2010 ± 3.5% 31% 42% 23%TCpalm.com/ZogbyTCpalm.com/Zogby https://web.archive.org/web/20101009234823/http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2010/oct/05/exclusive-zogby-florida-senate-poll-results/ October 9, 2010 September 27–29, 2010 ± 3.5% 33% 39% 18%Rasmussen Reports September 28, 2010 ± 4.0% 30% 41% 21%RCP AverageRCP Average September 21–22, 2010 ± 4.0% 29% 40% 22%Mason-DixonMason-Dixon September 14, 2010 ± 4.0% 28% 40% 23%Rasmussen Reports September 14, 2010 ± 4.0% 30% 41% 23%Reuters/IpsosReuters/Ipsos September 10–12, 2010 ± 4.0% 26% 40% 21%FOX NewsFOX News September 11, 2010 ± 3.0% 27% 43% 21%Sunshine State NewsSunshine State News https://web.archive.org/web/20100911123425/http://www.sunshinestatenews.com/story/marco-rubio-holds-double-digit-lead-senate-race September 11, 2010 September 1–7, 2010 ± 3.0% 29% 43% 23%CNNCNN September 2–7, 2010 ± 3.5% 34% 36% 24%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports August 25, 2010 ± 4.0% 30% 40% 21%Public Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling August 21–22, 2010 ± 3.0% 32% 40% 17%QuinnipiacQuinnipiac August 11–16, 2010 ± 3.0% 39% 32% 16%Mason DixonMason Dixon July 2016 InternetArchiveBot yes August 9–11, 2010 ± 4.0% 33% 38% 18%Ipsos/Florida Newspapersmedic August 6–10, 2010 ± 4.0% 33% 29% 17%Rasmussen Reports August 9, 2010 ± 4.0% 33% 38% 21%McLaughlin & AssociatesMcLaughlin & Associates July 31 – August 1, 2010 ± 4.0% 38% 36% 16%The Florida Poll/NY TimesThe Florida Poll/NY Times https://web.archive.org/web/20110613222644/http://www.theledger.com/article/20100730/NEWS/7305081/1410?Title=Governor-Surges-Into-Lead June 13, 2011 July 24–28, 2010 ± 4.0% 41% 30% 12%QuinnipiacQuinnipiac July 22–27, 2010 ± 3.2% 39% 33% 13%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports July 21, 2010 ± 4.0% 33% 35% 20%Public Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling July 16–18, 2010 ± 3.26% 38% 29% 13%Ipsos/ReutersIpsos/Reuters July 9–11, 2010 ± 4.0% 34% 29% 18%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports July 6, 2010 ± 4.5% 34% 36% 15%Florida Chamber of CommerceFlorida Chamber of Commerce June 9–13, 2010 ± 4.0% 42% 31% 14%QuinnipiacQuinnipiac June 1–7, 2010 ± 4.7% 40% 33% 14%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports June 7, 2010 ± 4.5% 37% 37% 15%St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9 May 14–18, 2010 ± 4.0% 30% 27% 15%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports May 16, 2010 ± 4.5% 31% 39% 18%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports May 3, 2010 ± 4.5% 38% 34% 17%McLaughlin & AssociatesMcLaughlin & Associates April 24–25, 2010 –– 33% 29% 15%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports April 21, 2010 ± 4.5% 30% 37% 22%QuinnipiacQuinnipiac April 8–13, 2010 ± 4.4% 32% 30% 24%Rasmussen ReportsRasmussen Reports March 18, 2010 –– 22% 42% 25%Public Policy PollingPublic Policy Polling March 5–8, 2010 ± 3.4% 27% 34% 25%Miami HeraldMiami Herald January 31, 2010 ± 3.46% 26% 31% 24% background:#cff Hypothetical polling border:solid 1px silver; padding:8px; background:var(--background-color-base); color:var(--color-base) Poll source Date(s)administered Samplesize Marginof error BillMcCollum (R) AlexSink (D) Other Undecided Quinnipiac January 14–19, 2009 1,370 ± 2.7% 36% 35% — 29% Fundraising Candidate (party) Receipts Disbursements Cash on hand Debt Marco Rubio (R) $21,231,831 $21,024,726 $207,105 $938,803 Charlie Crist (NPA) $13,655,044 $13,504,327 $150,715 $42,271 Kendrick Meek (D) $8,704,516 $8,083,976 $63,628 $96,507 Alexander Snitker (L) $42,014 $37,500 $5,008 $0 Bernie DeCastro (C) $51,886 $18,596 $33,270 $0 Source: Federal Election Commissionhttp://www.fec.gov/DisclosureSearch/HSProcessCandList.do?category=stateS_all&stateName=FL&election_yr=2010 2010 House and Senate Campaign Finance for Florida fec.gov March 18, 2010 November 2018 InternetArchiveBot yes Results thumb|250px|County flips: Independent #696969 Flip Republican #f48882 Hold #ca0120 Flip Democratic #92c5de Hold 2010 United States Senate election in Floridahttp://election.dos.state.fl.us/elections/resultsarchive/Index.asp?ElectionDate=11%2F2%2F2010 Florida Department of State - Election Results December 30, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20120521132257/http://election.dos.state.fl.us/elections/resultsarchive/Index.asp?ElectionDate=11%2F2%2F2010 May 21, 2012 dead mdy-all Republican Party (United States) Marco Antonio Rubio 2,645,743 48.89% -0.54% Independent Charles Joseph Crist Jr. 1,607,549 29.71% +29.71% Democratic Party (United States) Kendrick Brett Meek 1,092,936 20.20% -28.12% Libertarian Party (United States) Alexander Snitker 24,850 0.46% N/A Independent Sue Askeland 15,340 0.28% N/A Independent Rick Tyler 7,394 0.14% N/A Constitution Party (United States) Bernie DeCastro 4,792 0.09% N/A Independent Lewis Jerome Armstrong 4,443 0.08% N/A Independent Bobbie Bean 4,301 0.08% N/A Independent Bruce Riggs 3,647 0.07% N/A 108 0.00% ±0.00% 5,411,106 100.00% Republican Party (United States) Counties that flipped from Democratic to Republican Monroe (largest city: Key West) Hernando (largest municipality: Spring Hill) Pasco (largest municipality: Wesley Chapel) Hillsborough (largest municipality: Tampa) St. Lucie (largest municipality: Port St. Lucie) Alachua (largest city: Gainesville) Flagler (largest city: Palm Coast) Volusia (largest city: Deltona) Hamilton (largest municipality: Jasper) Jefferson (largest municipality: Monticello) Madison (largest municipality: Madison) Franklin (largest city: Eastpoint) Liberty (largest city: Bristol) Wakulla (largest city: Sopchoppy) Counties that flipped from Democratic to Independent Broward (largest city: Fort Lauderdale) Palm Beach (largest city: West Palm Beach) Leon (largest city: Tallahassee) Pinellas (largest municipality: St. Petersburg) Notes References External links Florida Secretary of State - Division of Elections U.S. Congress candidates for Florida https://web.archive.org/web/20100930121316/http://www.votesmart.org/election_congress_state.php?state_id=FL September 30, 2010 at Project Vote Smart Florida U.S. Senate from OurCampaigns.com Campaign contributions from Open Secrets 2010 Florida Senate Election graph of multiple polls from Pollster.com Election 2010: Florida Senate from Rasmussen Reports 2010 Florida Senate Race from Real Clear Politics 2010 Florida Senate Race from CQ Politics Race profile from The New York Times Debates Florida Senate Democratic Primary Debate on C-SPAN, August 2, 2010 Florida Senate Democratic Primary Debate on C-SPAN, August 10, 2010 Official campaign websites (archived) Charlie Crist for U.S. Senate Kendrick Meek for U.S. Senate Marco Rubio for U.S. Senate News stories Sen. Mel Martinez resigns; Crist will appoint replacement The First Senator From the Tea Party? United States Senate Florida 2010 Category:Marco Rubio