Mike McCalister Formally Enters Senate Race

Mike McCalister, a businessman and retired Army officer, made it official on Wednesday by formally entering the Republican primary contest to take on Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012. McCalister, who took more than 10 percent when he ran for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, was widely expected to enter the race and had been hitting the Sunshine State for months.

"I've spent the last six months traveling the state to assess whether I would have the support necessary to wage a serious campaign for the United States Senate," said McCalister on Wednesday. "After meeting with numerous Republicans, tea party supporters, 9/12 Project members, fellow veterans, and other conservatives from throughout Florida, it is evident to me that my 'lower tax, smaller government' message is resonating with voters.

"I am the only conservative candidate in the race with the experience and qualifications necessary to defeat Bill Nelson, added McCalister. My background and personal life experiences have prepared me to confront the serious economic and global threats facing America today. I will be Florida's biggest advocate for jobs, lower taxes, smaller government, an end to Obamacare, a secure border, and a strong military."

McCalister faces a crowded primary field and he has been taking aim at three of his rivals: former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux, state Senate President Mike Haridopolos and former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner.

With the second quarter of fundraising ending on Thursday, McCalisters team downplayed expectations, noting that they would start raising money in the fourth quarter of 2011.