Scott Maddox quits the 2006 Florida Governor's race

The former mayor of Tallahassee announced his withdrawal this morning. Maddox then endorsed Democratic Congressman Jim Davis for the nommination.

I wasn't surprised by this news. Three months ago I chronicled Maddox's disasterous leadership of the State Democratic party. His failure to manage party finances made him a poor candidate for Governor.

Traffic Jam/Lunch- Outside the Beltway and Basil's blog

Democratic candidate for governor, Scott Maddox, quit the race this morning. Joined by U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler of Delray Beach and former U.S. Sen. Bob Graham, Maddox threw his support behind U.S. Rep. Jim Davis of Tampa.

Maddox, his campaign hobbled by an early spate of unfavorable publicity, was reported to perhaps leave the 2006 governor's race as early as today.

Two sources who spoke directly to Maddox this week said the former Tallahassee mayor had indicated he would not run for governor but cautioned he still may change his mind. These sources, who spoke only on the condition of anonymity because of the confidential nature of the conversations, said a final decision could come quickly.

Maddox was in serious discussions about his political future this week. Those discussions continued Thursday. Maddox, who did not return phone calls seeking comment, is said to be considering his political options, ranging from staying in the race for governor to running for another political office.