Craig Miller, the former CEO of Ruths Chris who ran for the Republican nomination for a Central Florida congressional seat in 2010, is expected Tuesday to announce that he is entering an already crowded primary to challenge Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012.

Miller, a Vietnam veteran, has expressed interest in entering the race since early May. Besides touring the state since first leaving the door open, Miller has met with Republican leaders in Washington. They have made Nelson, who is seeking a third term, one of their top targets in the 2012 election cycle.

Florida Republican Congressman Connie Mack, the chairman of the U.S. House Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, turned up the heat on Venezuela this week and called for the Obama administration to include that South American nation on the list of countries that are recognized as state sponsors of terrorism.

From his perch on a congressional subcommittee, Florida Republican Congressman Gus Bilirakis insisted that the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has a role to play in stimulating economic growth while still protecting the nation.

The U.S. House subcommittee on oversight, investigations and management conducted a hearing last Thursday to examine DHSs efforts to secure the nation and how the department's efforts often impact the private sector.

It is way too early for this, but Florida Current asked its readers if Gov. Rick Scott would face a primary challenge in 2014 when he runs for a second term.

The next three speakers of the Florida House announced Wednesday that they are backing former Gov. Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota for the Republican presidential nomination in 2012.

Incoming Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, was named a co-chair of the state Pawlenty team while Rep. Chris Dorworth, R-Heathrow, and Rep. Richard Corcoran, R-New Port Richey, will serve as regional chairmen of the campaign.