This morning's Orlando Sentinel brought a welcome surprise about my race for Florida House District 35. Political columnist Scott Maxwell named his "Seven Election races Worth Watching," and would you believe which one was the very first race he mentioned?

Here is what Maxwell had to say:

One of the most interesting local races involves State Rep. Dean Cannon, the guy who's supposed to be our next house speaker -- but only if he can first get re-elected.

For the first time, the Republican power-broker from Winter Park has a serious, credible challenger -- one whom [Democratic chairman Bill] Robinson describes as "the best candidate I've ever worked with." Her name is Amy Mercado. She's an executive with the National Mango Board and an activist in the Democratic Party who helped organize support for Barack Obama.

What's more, Cannon's once-solid-GOP district has morphed, so that Democrats now outnumber Republicans.

[Republican chairman Lew] Oliver conceded that Cannon has more of a challenge on his hands than in years past, but pooh-poohed the possibility of him getting ousted. The district still votes Republican, Oliver said, adding that Cannon will have "a startling amount of money."

Money does flow to power. But Robinson said he's not convinced big checks from special interests are what voters crave in a candidate. Plus, he said, Dems will steer money Mercado's way as well, making this legislative battle "easily the most exciting race."

Still, the race is Cannon's to lose.

Republican chairman Lew Oliver makes a good point. My opponent is well-entrenched and will indeed receive "a startling amount of money" from the huge special interests that he looks out for. That's where you come in.
Please make a donation today, right now at my web site.
My campaign is just getting warmed up, and your support right now will help me reach the voters in our district who need an alternative.

Thank you for your support.