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Democrats jockey for state party post
Former Tallahassee Mayor Scott Maddox, now party chairman, is expected to run for governor.
By ADAM C. SMITH
Published March 15, 2005
An unpredictable race for Florida Democratic chairman is brewing as Democrats prepare for Scott Maddox to pursue his own political ambitions.
Maddox on Wednesday is expected to announce plans to step down as state party chairman to seek statewide office, though not necessarily reveal which one.
A spokeswoman said the former Tallahassee mayor would not announce for governor at the time. That's the 2006 race most party strategists ultimately expect him to enter.
Even without an official job opening, Democrats have an evolving field of candidates to replace Maddox.
Former U.S. Rep. Karen Thurman of Dunnellon has the backing of U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, Democrats say, but also in the race are former Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jimmy Morales and Jeff Ryan, a veteran Democratic fundraiser in Tallahassee and brother of state Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Dania.
Leon County state committeeman Jon Ausman had considered running, but instead is backing Ryan. State Democratic vice chairwoman Diane Glasser of Tamarac has told party officials she also is planning to run. She's the best known among party activists who elect the state chairman.
Glasser said she is the only candidate who would not use the job as a launching pad for elective office.
[Last modified March 15, 2005, 01:06:08]
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