With Sen. Charlie Justice, D-St. Petersburg, leaving the Senate after one term to challenge U.S. Rep. Bill Young, Republicans are licking their lips over what appears to be an easy opportunity to expand their majority by picking up this seat covering parts of Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

After eight years out of office, former Senate Majority Leader Jack Latvala is back and the Republican has complied an impressive war chest, bringing in more than $567,000 and spending more than $185,000 so far. Latvala says he will continue to fight against big government and for tougher laws against criminals. This has earned him the endorsements of the Florida Chamber of Commerce as well as various law-enforcement groups.

Pinellas County School Board member Nina Hayden, who also worked in the public defender’s office is running as the Democratic nominee. Hayden is an impressive candidate but she is seriously underperforming when it comes to fund-raising. She has raised more than $12,000 and received more than $4,600 through in-kind donations, but she has spent more than $10,500 so far in the campaign. Unless Hayden is able to raise some money, Latvala should be considered a heavy favorite to pick this seat up for the Republicans.