Tom Lee Draws a Democratic Challenger in Hillsborough County

On Tuesday, Lutz businessman and consultant Scott Landry Jr. filed to run against Sen. Tom Lee, R-Brandon, as a Democrat. The seat Lee currently holds represents parts of Hillsborough County and is generally considered to lean Republican.

Im really excited to do it, Landry, a first time candidate, told Sunshine State News on Tuesday. I saw there was a need.

Landry said he had talked to business owners in the district and found they were concerned about the direction of the state government.

People werent happy with the leadership in Tallahassee, Landry said. He vowed to alleviate pressures on small business and fight for job creation.

If he sounds like more of a conservative on fiscal issues, Landry should appeal to Democrats on social issues. Ive always been one to look for equal opportunities, he said, including more support for equality for gays and lesbians.