Software company owner Ron Rushing is an underdog in the 2012 U.S. Senate race. But the Windermere Republican is looking to gain some attention by standing strong for conservative principles.

John Winn, who previously served as Florida Education Commissioner, was once again tapped to head up the state's education system Wednesday, this time on an interim basis.

The state Board of Education voted unanimously to appoint Winn, who served as commissioner from 2004 to 2007. Winn also served as an education adviser to former Gov. Jeb Bush prior to his initial term as education commissioner. He has resigned his position as chief program officer for the National Math and Science Initiative, and will begin work Monday.

The Department of Education is staying tight-lipped about whether any new applicants came forward for the high-profile job of education commissioner as the second deadline to apply for the job came and went late Monday.

Two State Board of Education members reached Tuesday said they had not received a formal briefing on who the new applicants are from the search firm hired to find Floridas next education commissioner.

I have not received any briefing today, said board member A.K. Desai.

Last July, ABC and NBC highlighted a temper tantrum from Rep. Anthony Weiner, alleging on the House floor that the Republicans were denying health care to the heroes of 9/11.