With U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young re-elected to a 20th term in Congress, his son Billy Young would be old enough to run for his seat in two years.

So, is the congressman's namesake interested in succeeding his dad?

"I've always had a huge interest in politics, and I've loved the ability to shadow him and see the good that he does for people," said Billy Young, 24. "If you'd asked me a long time ago I probably would have told you yes." But now, he said, "I really enjoy working in the private sector."

Young, who would not rule out a run, is a community relations specialist with the Largo-based National Forensic Science Technology Center, a not-for-profit corporation that trains and provides services to local and state crime labs.

He said he thinks Americans are tired of campaigning and could take a break from politics.

"When we get to the day that he announces he’s retiring, then we’ll get to this question again," Billy said.

But he said he's happy to have his dad as the congressman for the 10th District and is looking forward to voting for him again in 2010.

Stephanie Garry, Times Staff Writer

*