Kendrick Meek To Announces Senate Candidacy

Word is Kendrick Meek intends to run for Mel Martinez's seat.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, who led the effort to put class-size limits in the state constitution, plans to announce his candidacy for U.S. Senate on Tuesday, say sources close to Meek.

Meek would be the first major candidate to get in the 2010 race to replace retiring Republican Sen. Mel Martinez.

Meek, 42, is beginning his fourth term in Congress. He sits on the powerful Ways & Means Committee and the Armed Services Committee and has a close relationship with Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Progressives are wetting themselves over a Meek's run. Meek does not have enough statewide name recognition. A Senate run will help Meek's future prospects.