Phil Handy, who headed Jeb Bush’s gubernatorial bids as campaign chairman in 1994 and 1998 and as campaign co-chairman in 2002 and was state chairman for John McCain‘s presidential bid in 2008, is leading former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s efforts in Florida for his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination.

Handy sent out an e-mail to supporters on Tuesday, arguing that Pawlenty was making strides in the Sunshine State.

“Top opinion leaders, activists and political leaders are joining his campaign, and a recent national poll showed him surging into third place – a jump of 8 points -- just behind Mitt Romney and Sarah Palin,” insisted Handy. “In addition, momentum and support here in Florida is beginning to break toward Governor Pawlenty.”

Handy was trying to register Republicans for the Presidency 5 straw poll which will be held in Orlando in September. The deadline for registration is on Friday.