Talk about trading up [3]... It looks like there's a pretty good chance that the retiring Mel Martinez may be replaced in the Senate in 2010 by Jeb Bush.
The surprise news that Florida GOP Senator Mel Martinez will be retiring in 2010 at age 64 has set off a flurry of speculation about potential successors.
The most intriguing name is former Governor Jeb Bush, who is reported by the Miami Herald to be considering a race. He will talk it over with his family over Christmas and make a decision soon after.
Mr. Bush told Newsmax.com this week that he doesn't think the 2008 results were a "transformational" election that should prompt Republicans to propose "Democratic lite" ideas because the country is moving left. "This is basically still a center-right country," he said. He thinks Republicans should "organize ourselves in the form of a shadow government" and stand ready to offer "a loftier debate about policy" beyond partisan talking points. As a member of the Senate, Mr. Bush would be well positioned to provide just that kind of input. ...
This would be great for several reasons. First, he's the Republican who would have the best chance politically of winning the seat, and second, he's a good conservative - unlike Martinez - and would be great addition to the Republican caucus and to the Republican lineup in general.
Florida conservatives should do what they can to encuorage him to make the bid.
