So the word is out: Crist is telling key financial backers that he's running for senate with no party affiliation. The announcement is scheduled for 5 p.m. in Straub Park in downtown St Petersburg. They're expecting a small army of media, and it looks like Crist may have no Republican press staffers with him, and will rely on folks like local supporter Greg Truax and finance director Dane Eagle to deal with press inquiries.

His kick-off fundraiser is tentatively scheduled Fisher Island off Miami Beach, where his wife owns a a home.

Crist, who prides himself on listening to the people, polled the issue. And he liked what he saw, sources close to his campaign said. In a three-way race, they say, the guv's about dead-even with Rubio. Kendrick Meek trails in third.

This morning, when asked if he had seen the poll, Crist said he hadn't. Asked again if he was aware of the poll, Crist said he was.

"Yes, I am aware," Crist said after noon. "You asked if I had seen it. I haven't seen any results. Uh-uh."