Rep. Katherine Harris says that despite media reports the Republican Party opposes her candidacy for the GOP senatorial nomination, she's had nothing but the kindest treatment from Florida Governor Jeb Bush and Florida Republicans, and not a single negative comment from the White House or any other Republican since announcing her candidacy.
Responding to Alan Colmes' remarks that the White House and Governor Bush have not yet come forward to support her candidacy, Rep. Harris said: "Actually, they have. Governor Bush has been very gracious in his comments and wished me well and said I would be a formidable candidate."
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Appearing on the "Hannity and Colmes" show on Fox News, Rep. Harris told Colmes that she did not know why the media have speculated that among Republicans her candidacy is unwelcome. "Ever since the press announced that I would be a candidate, I have not had one negative conversation or a back channel one from anyone."
Colmes persisted, asking Rep. Harris if she had gotten any assurances from the White House that they would support her in a primary - he was apparently ignoring the fact that political party organizations do not officially take sides in primaries, traditionally withholding support until a candidate is chosen.
"This is not about endorsements in the primary. We have to get through the primary," she said. "People will decide who will be their next U.S. senator."
She has pledged to visit every nook and cranny in the state, listening to Floridians' concerns.
"Our polls show that when we get our message out - Florida's message - we will win," Harris told about 100 supporters at a community center in her home town of Sarasota, according to the Washington Post.
The paper noted that most statewide opinion polls show Harris trailing Sen. Bill Nelson, a former congressman and state insurance commissioner who was elected to the Senate in 2000.
Republicans list Nelson as one of the most vulnerable Democrat senators up for re-election next year.
"I want to say I'm trailing by an eyelash, but I know what you guys would do with that," Harris said, referring to slurring media comments about her cosmetics.
Political observers say that Rep. Harris, who has no announced primary opponent, would be certain winner in any primary contest.
Florida House Speaker Allan Bense, reported to be Jeb Bush's first choice, has announced he will not be a candidate for the Senate nomination.
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