BREAKING: Florida's Wacholtz not seeking re-election; 2 candidates emerge to succeed him

As the spring months approach, many states will be holding elections in their respective College Republican federations, and each individual race will be of great import to the upcoming CRNC elections in June. It appeared just a few weeks ago that Florida's Chairman Scott Wacholtz would be seeking a second term, but it now is known that Wacholtz will instead step away from FFCR at the end of his term. Vying to succeed him are two members of his Executive Board, First Vice Chair David Stevens and Treasurer Tommy Keller. Stevens, hailing from Florida State University, was a past chapter Chairman at FSU, and served as Wacholtz' running mate in 2006. Keller, who is a student at Stetson, was elected as Treasurer of FFCR in November of 2005, and he has named Florida Atlantic University CR Stacey Chait as his running mate.

Both campaigns have set up Facebook groups, the campaign site of choice for College Republican elections everywhere, and have released letters announcing their intents to run for the open positions. Tommy Keller's group, Tommy Keller for Chairman, boasts 78 current members, and features a letter detailing some of the plans Keller has for FFCR leading up to the 2008 Presidential elections.

"It is too simplistic for any individual seeking Chairmanship of this organization to boast about supposed accomplishments that have recently been made. However, if we are to have the most influential impact, it is time to be honest. The question, “What is the purpose of our State Federation?” must weigh heavily upon the minds of the elect in this organization. And the current status quo cannot and must not continue into another term."

The group touting the candidacy of David Stevens, David Stevens for FFCR Chairman, also features a letter declaring his candidacy, but, in addition to that, features a list of Stevens' accomplishments as well as a couple of choice photos, while having slightly fewer members at 60.

"...we have worked hard to expand our federation and lay the foundation so that the FFCR will be the best in the country. While I was disappointed to hear that Scott would not seek a second term, I fully understand his reasoning and wish him well in his future endeavors. Scott has done a great job this past year, but there is much still left to do. After discussing the matter with friends and family, I have decided to announce my candidacy for Chairman of the Florida Federation of College Republicans. In order to take our federation to the next level, we need someone who is dedicated, organized, and experienced."