Very few people in America who recall the 2000 presidential election have no opinion of Katherine Harris. As secretary of state of Florida, Harris became the face of the ballot dispute in that battleground state and had a major say in what votes were eventually counted.

On Tuesday, Harris has announced that she will be running for a spot in the United States Senate on the Republican ticket against incumbent Democrat Bill Nelson.

As she announced her candidacy, Harris told reporters, 'Today, after months of encouragement from friends and constituents, colleagues and advisors, many prayers, and with the love and support of my family, the time has come to launch a campaign for the United States Senate,' Harris said.

Harris is presently serving her second term in Congress after leaving her post as Florida's secretary of state.

Her candidacy instantly gives the campaign a higher national profile and will result in additional fundraising for both sides. Republicans find Harris, who helped George W. Bush win the 2000 election over Al Gore, as a positive figure while many Democrats demonize her.

Early polls have Harris as the favorite to win the Republican nomination with Nelson ahead of Harris in the general election. Still, it's a long way to November 2006.