Rubio Readies Run

Florida Senator Marco Rubio will be announcing his candidacy for the White House today, making him the third Republican and fourth candidate overall to jump into the race. Politico reviews Rubio's history and previews the sorts of themes he's expected to hit on today and on the campaign trail:

Rubio preps for presidential announcement

Two years after a push for comprehensive immigration reform nearly sidetracked his political career, Marco Rubio is poised to announce his presidential campaign Monday at Miami’s iconic Freedom Tower, a venue rich in historic symbolism.

The building, known as the Ellis Island of the South, is closely associated with the American immigrant experience — the Cuban version that serves as a cornerstone of Rubio’s persona. As the son of Cuban immigrants — his mother was a maid, his father a bartender — Rubio casts his life story as a South Florida version of the American Dream, and he frequently refers to America as “the place that literally changed the history of my family.”

His compelling biography, powerful speaking style and Hispanic surname helped fuel a rapid rise on the national stage. But his unsuccessful effort in 2013 to pass a comprehensive immigration reform bill damaged his standing with conservatives...

Rubio's political skills are substantial, and the article notes he is well-positioned to be the "last man standing" as the second-choice of many primary voters who will come his way as their preferred candidates drop out or lose support. All in all, Rubio is likely to be a formidable contender for the 2016 Republican nomination.