Former Florida Rep. Connie Mack IV, who gave up his solidly Republican House seat in 2012 in an unsuccessful Senate bid against Democrat Bill Nelson, is exploring a possible run to recapture it,
The New York Times reported.
Mack's old seat is held by freshman incumbent — and former conservative talk show host — Rep. Trey Radel who pleaded guilty to cocaine-related charges. He has taken a leave of absence and entered rehabilitation for substance abuse.
Mack, who has gone through two divorces, represented the 19th District, located on Florida's west coast, including Fort Myers and Marco Island, from 2005 to 2013. He is the son of former Sen. Connie Mack III.
Mack's former deputy campaign manager David James said Mack has been encouraged to enter the race by backers in Washington and Florida and has not ruled out the possibility,
according to The News-Press.
Leading Florida Republicans led by Gov. Rick Scott and GOP chairman Lenny Curry have called on Radel to step down.
Politico reported that two local GOP officials in Radel's district also called on him to resign.
Besides Mack, others mentioned as possible candidates for the seat include Florida State Senator and Majority Leader Lizbeth Benacquisto and Chauncey Goss
who came in second to Radel, in a six-way Republican primary.
Goss is the son of former congressman and CIA Director Porter Goss.
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