Watch CBS News

Marco Rubio Will Seek Re-Election To Senate Seat

WASHINGTON (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Former Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio announced Wednesday that he will run for re-election to his Florida Senate seat.

In a statement, Rubio said he is reversing his plans to retire after concluding it was important to continue with public service at a critical time for the nation.

COMPLETE CAMPAIGN 2016 COVERAGE

The first-term senator said that control of the Senate could come down to the race in Florida, which would mean the future of the Supreme Court, as well as critical policy deals, could be determined by the Florida Senate race.

"The stakes for our nation could not be higher," Rubio said.

Rubio had been under intense pressure from party leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, to run because they were concerned the other candidates couldn't keep the seat in GOP hands.

The announcement comes months after Rubio suspended his campaign in the Republican presidential contest.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.