Former United States Attorney General Janet Reno confirmed strategists' suspicions Tuesday, formally announcing her candidacy for the Florida gubernatorial office.
Reno, 63, who served as Attorney General throughout the Clinton administration, will take on Republican Gov. Jeb Bush in the November 2002 election.
'I am seeking the office,' Reno said in the Tuesday announcement from her suburban Miami home.
This came after Reno conducted a four-month exploratory campaign for governor in her native state.
'I want to build the best education system in the nation, protect the environment and stand up for our elders,' a Reno statement said. 'People tell me they share my vision and are looking for strong independent leadership. That's why today I am taking my first steps in organizing my campaign for governor.'
Bob Poe, chairman of the Florida Democratic Party, told The New York Times that Reno's presence in the race is significant.
'It definitely keeps it in the national spotlight,' he said.
