Florida Gov. Rick Scott has scheduled a special election to replace the late Rep. C.W. Bill Young, R-Fla., for next year.

The primary election will be Jan. 14, and the general election will be March 11.

Young died Oct. 18. Operatives from both parties expect a highly contested and competitive race for his seat. The district narrowly voted for President Barack Obama last year, making it

Oct. 18. Operatives from both parties expect a highly contested and competitive race for his seat. The district narrowly voted for President Barack Obama last year, making it the first special election of the cycle that could serve as a harbinger for the 2014 midterm elections.

Former state Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink joined attorney Jessica Ehrlich in the Democratic primary Wednesday morning. Soon after Sink’s announcement, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee

attorney Jessica Ehrlich in the Democratic primary Wednesday morning. Soon after Sink’s announcement, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee indicated that that organization would back her over Ehrlich.

As for the Republicans, GOP political consultant Nick Zoller jumped in earlier this month, and other Republicans are giving the seat a look as well.

The race is rated Tossup by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.