TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — House Speaker Dean Cannon says Florida likely will hold its presidential primary on Jan. 31.
The Republican on Wednesday said that should secure Florida's place as the fifth state to hold presidential primaries or caucuses.
Cannon said Florida officials do not want to go ahead of the four states that traditionally go first — Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina.
Florida Republicans have been pushing for an early date to ensure the state will be a major player in deciding the GOP nominee.
A Jan. 31 primary would violate Republican Party rules, but Cannon said his first duty is to Florida's voters.
Cannon said Florida's hand was forced by other states that have moved up their dates, including Missouri to Feb. 7.
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