Democratic candidate for governor Rod Smith will depart next week on a 15-stop, four-day, statewide bus tour. Smith will begin Monday night in Gainesville, his campaign said. The Straight Talk and Real Change tour will travel 1,100 miles through 34 counties (see full list in comments).

"Rod Smith is a tireless fighter for Democratic priorities," said former Attorney General Bob Butterworth. "He is not only one of the most effective Democrats in state government, he is also the candidate who can lead the Democrats to victory in 2006."

Smith said, "We’re putting together local campaigns in all 67 counties—and our momentum is soaring. This is a great opportunity for me to hear from Floridians from the Panhandle to South Florida, and everywhere in between. I’m looking forward to seeing as many people as possible, so I hope folks will come out to say hello when we’re in their area.”