CLEARWATER, FL (WFLA) — Protesters showed up on Friday afternoon when U.S. Representative David Jolly announced that he will run for re-election and drop out of Florida’s Senate race.

“I think I have an opportunity to run on a record of having delivered to the county real results,” said Congressman Jolly.

Jolly’s campaign sign, “Unfinished Business” was taped to the podium moments before he spoke.

Jolly said he is pulling out of the Republican primary to replace Sen. Marco Rubio, amidst speculation that Rubio may run for re-election for his seat. Jolly would face former governor Charlie Crist, who is also running for Florida’s 13th congressional district.

Jolly’s decision now sets up a competitive race with the former Republican governor and now Democrat Charlie Crist in a district that was redrawn more favorably for Democrats.

Jolly won office by defeated Democrat Alex Sink in a March 2014 special election. He faced no serious opposition the following November and was re-elected. He entered the Senate race after it became clear his district would favor Democrats. He’s now changing his mind as failed presidential candidate Marco Rubio considers running for re-election. The deadline to qualify for the ballot is next Friday.

“I’m not running against anybody. I’m running on my reputation,” Jolly said during Friday’s news conference.

He also said he will not draw contrast to Charlie Crist and that Crist will run on his record and he will run on his. Crist released this statement following Jolly’s announcement.

“Unlike what my new opponent did when I announced, I’m not going to start name calling like Donald Trump – everyone should do what’s in their heart. Pinellas needs less Donald Trump and more civility to tackle issues like the rising cost of health care, gun violence, failing schools, and protecting our environment –  that’s why I’m running, for the people.”

Protesters with signs outside the Clearwater Airport said Jolly is not doing his job.

“We need real representation, we need real leadership. The time has come to do the right thing and David Jolly by his track record, gives us no indication that he’s going to do anything different,” said Susan McGrath.

McGrath said Jolly is weak on gun control laws.

“If you look at the legislation, there were thirteen times, thirteen times for crying out loud that David Jolly voted the wrong way,” she said.

Jolly proposed legislation that would prevent anyone from buying firearm on a terror watch list, but provide due process for those mistakenly added.

“The solutions of blame on the left, the solutions of inaction on the right will no longer work. And for those who notionally decide they want to organize protest on either side of the isle, my answer is put down your signs and sit down and let’s talk,” said Congressman Jolly.Orlando Massacre: Related Stories