Rep. Keller Has First Dem Challenger

Democrats have found their first candidate to run against Rep. Ric Keller (R-Fla.) in his Orlando-based district.

Attorney Mike Smith, a partner at Morgan and Morgan law firm in Orlando, announced he’s running this afternoon. Because Keller has been taking heat from his conservative base, Democrats view the seat as a strong pickup opportunity. President Bush won 55 percent of the vote district-wide in 2004. 

“As a husband and father with deep roots in the region, I believe our community deserves fresh ideas from their Congressman and independent leadership that reflects our values and priorities,” said Smith.

Smith has met with Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Chris Van Hollen, who views him as a capable candidate.

Democrats also view the state’s late September primary as beneficial to them. Usually it’s the incumbents benefit from late primaries, as prospective challengers attack one another. But this election, Keller will be facing at least one primary challenger of his own, Todd Long, who is running to the congressman’s right. Several other conservative state legislators have mulled runs as well.