Sen. Mel Martinez to step down

TALLAHASSEE -- Though he has persistently denied the ``rumor'' that he'll step down, Florida Sen. Mel Martinez might announce as early as Friday that he'll leave office early, according to a number of sources in the state and nation's capitals.

``It's a deeply personal decision that he will expand on later today. He decided it's time to move to another stage of his life,'' said a source familiar with the situation.

Gov. Charlie Crist, who is running to replace Martinez, will appoint a fill-in. Crist could even appoint himself.

When asked about the rumor July 28, Crist downplayed it.

``Anything's possible. I don't think that's something he really is considering,'' said Crist, a friend and early supporter of Martinez.

Asked about two potential candidates -- former Sen. Connie Mack and lobbyist and former Florida Secretary of State Jim Smith -- Crist demurred as well.

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/breaking-news/story/1175846.html

I wish Crist would switch parties.