Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Secretary Melanie Griffin has filed to run for Senate District 14, the seat previously held by now-Lt. Gov. Jay Collins .

Griffin filed paperwork Friday for the SD 14 election next year. But she’s expected to run in the Special Election, which is scheduled for a Primary on Jan. 13 and a General Election on March 24.

Griffin is the second Republican to join the race, but the first competitive candidate. Perennial candidate Amaro Lionheart has also filed as a Republican.

Sources tell Florida Politics another prominent Republican is likely entering the race soon. Previous speculation centered around Rep. Josie Tomkow , though she has yet to confirm her intention.

One Democrat, Brian Nathan , has filed for the seat.

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