LeMieux Considering His Own Future

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As FL Gov. Charlie Crist (R) considers his political future as an independent candidate, he's putting Sen. George LeMieux (R) in an awkward spot.

LeMieux, who ran Crist's past campaigns, served as his chief of staff at one point and has largely been seen as Crist's top political advisor, now has his own political career to consider. Appointed to replace ex-Sen. Mel Martinez (R) last year, LeMieux is said to be taking a serious look at challenging Sen. Bill Nelson (D) in '12.

But LeMieux now has a choice to make: If Crist bolts the GOP and runs as an independent, LeMieux will have to decide between backing his old friend and angering the very GOP primary voters he'll need in '12, or sticking with the party and throwing his pal overboard.

Sources close to LeMieux said they believe he has made his decision, and that he will stick with the party over the person. LeMieux has talked the decision over with his advisors and staff, and they believe LeMieux would endorse ex-FL House Speaker Marco Rubio (R) if Crist makes his switch official.

http://hotlineoncall.nationaljournal.com/archives/2010/04/lemieux_conside.php