Mike Haridopolos' withdrawal from the GOP Senate contest will put the party to a taste test. Which flavor of conservatism will Republicans choose?

"It's an interesting test case for the viability of the tea party movement," said Kevin Wagner, professor of political science at Florida Atlantic University.

"Adam Hasner is perceived as having the tea insurgency behind him. He's had some success at raising money from small donors," Wagner said.

On the other hand, George LeMieux figures to attract some of the establishment support that had gone to Haridopolos.

The demise of Mike Haridopolos U.S. Senate campaign could have been foretold by the tea leaves.

The district doesn't exist yet, but Karen Diebel has already raised $97,044 to run for a new congressional seat in Central Florida. Among her early donors: U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan.

Diebel was barely edged by Sandy Adams in a crowded Republican primary in Congressional District 24 last year. Adams went on to oust Democratic incumbent Suzanne Kosmas. Now Diebel figures to have the inside track in a new district for 2012.

Tea partiers and Christian conservatives eager to see Rick Perry in the GOP presidential fray should be careful what they wish for, because Mitt Romney stands to benefit most.

Strategists speculate that Perry would drain support from U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., a favorite of the religious right who has been surging in the polls. By splintering social conservatives, the Texas governor could end up solidifying Romney's position as the party's front-runner.

A proposed purchase of a natural gas conveyor could affect service to Central Florida and run afoul of antitrust regulations, Sunshine State News has learned.

The Williams Cos. is bidding to acquire Southern Union Co. Each firm owns natural-gas pipelines that serve Central Florida. If successful, Williams would have monopoly ownership of both pipes, reviving antitrust issues that were addressed in 2001.

Southern Union on Tuesday announced it would begin merger talks with Williams. Williams bid $39 a share for Southern on June 28.

Of three of the biggest political names in Florida, only one -- former Gov. Charlie Crist -- has a favorable rating topping 40 percent, according to a new Sunshine State News poll.