Throwing a surprise for the political establishment of Florida, state’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater on Friday announced that he will not be running for a US Senate seat, which is likely to open up in case Senator Marco Rubio runs for the presidential election in 2016.

Releasing a statement, Atwater said that he had received an incredible amount of encouragement to run for the US Senate seat.

“While I have certainly taken these words of support under consideration, I will not be a candidate for US Senate in 2016. I remain committed to only one endeavor and that is to be the best CFO I can be for the people of Florida,” Atwater said.

Atwater has been a hot favorite for an open seat, thanks to his fundraising ability and an operation that has assisted him in winning two races in the state.

Atwater has stood victorious in a re-election in November last year. He has won a greater share of votes than any other candidate statewide. Before assuming the post of CFO, Atwater has served in the Legislature, including a state Senate president.

Rubio is set to declare his plans on Monday. He is, moreover, likely to reveal his mind for the Republican nomination for presidential election.

Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush has earlier announced that he is exploring a White House bid.