Bill McCollum does breakfast with Rudy Giuliani during last year’s Florida primary. (Getty)

Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum announced Monday that he will run in next year’s race for governor. His move made him the first major Republican contender to declare his candidacy for the open seat since Republican Gov. Charlie Crist revealed last week that he will run instead for the Senate next year.

McCollum touched on several major issues during his announcement speech in Orlando, including health care, transportation and education.  

“Florida faces challenges today unlike any other time in our state’s history,” McCollum said, according to his written statement. “With your help, I will be elected Florida’s next governor and together our state will grow, prosper, and continue to be one of the most wonderful places on earth to live, work, and raise a family.”