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State Senator Dan Gelber is throwing his hat in the ring for US Senate in 2010. Gelber will face off against Democratic Congressman Kendrick Meek who announced his candidacy earlier this month. Gelber and Meek want to replace Republican Senator Mel Martinez who announced he’ll step down at then end of his term. Crist said Gelber will be a good candidate.

“I like Dan. I think Dan is a fine public servant. He’s been a great member of the Florida House. A new member of the Florida Senate and I look forward to working with him in the Florida Senate.”

“Could you see yourself running against him,” asked a reporter. Crist said “not today.”

Crist is among several popular Florida Republicans being discussed as a possible candidate. Attorney General Bill McCollum is another possible replacement. McCollum said he’s not ready to make a decision about running in 2010.