The son of former Gov. Lawton Chiles has told local Democrats to count him in as a candidate for governor in 2006.

Sarasota Democrat Christine Jennings told Sarasota Democrat Party leaders at a recent meeting that Lawton "Bud" Chiles III, an Orlando developer, is in the race.

"He told me he is definitely running," Jennings said in a telephone interview.

According to Jennings, Chiles told her to notify the local party of his candidacy.

Chiles, who has not filed for the post, could not be reached for an interview. But he sent a message through Jennings that he won't comment on his intentions to reporters until early in 2005.

Chiles, who has never held public office, could have company if he does seek the Democratic nomination. U.S. Rep. Jim Davis, D-Tampa, state Democratic Party Chairman Scott Maddox and state Rep. Rod Smith, D-Gainesville, are among the candidates Democrats are buzzing about.

Attorney General Charlie Crist, Florida's Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher and Lt. Gov. Toni Jennings are considered top candidates for governor by Republicans.

Because of term limits, Gov. Jeb Bush, a Republican, can't run for another four-year term.

The elder Chiles was a U.S. senator for three terms and governor for two. In winning re-election as governor in 1994, Chiles defeated Bush.

Polls showed Chiles struggling prior to Election Day. When asked by reporters about his struggling campaign, Chiles responded with one of his most famous quotes.

"The old he-coon walks just before the light of day," Chiles said.

Chiles then catapulted in the polls, defeating Bush.