Crist Picks Temporary Replacement for Martinez Seat

Jillian Bandes | August 28, 2009 11:12 AM

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist has picked George LeMieux (leh-'MEW), his former chief of staff and close political advisor, to replace Sen. Mel Martinez.

The move ensures the seat is open for Crist next year, if he can beat out Marco Rubio in the primary.

"I'm a Charlie Crist Republican," said LeMieux, after the news broke.