Tallahassee, FL — Florida Democrats are facing an increasingly complicated political landscape as U.S. Senator Jon Steele prepares a potential presidential campaign that could leave his Senate seat open.

Steele recently formed an exploratory committee for the presidency following the election where incumbent President Paul Garrett defeated Democratic challenger Nathan Landberger.

Even before Steele’s announcement, candidate Paletuatoa Peniamina had already filed for the U.S. Senate race in Florida, becoming the first Democrat to enter the contest. However, the situation grew more unusual this week when Peniamina also began organizing a presidential campaign, filing in early primary states while remaining an active Senate candidate.

The dual campaigns have puzzled some Democratic strategists, who note that Peniamina has limited political experience and previously ran unsuccessful campaigns.

Meanwhile, another major figure may soon enter the Senate race. Former Tallahassee mayor and recent Democratic gubernatorial nominee Calvin Beningham is considering a bid for the seat. Beningham lost the governor’s race earlier this year by a 62.2–37.8 margin but remains one of the most recognizable Democratic figures in the state.

Sources say Beningham is currently speaking with Steele as he weighs entering the primary expected next month in April.

If Beningham joins the race, his statewide network and name recognition could quickly reshape the Democratic primary. With Steele’s presidential decision looming and candidates already maneuvering, Florida Democrats may soon face a competitive and unpredictable contest to determine who will attempt to hold the party’s only Senate seat in the state.