Bill Nelson (D-Fla.)

Why He Matters

A devout Christian who describes himself as an "authentic hayseed," Nelson is a natural politician with a down-to-Earth style that has won over Florida voters for more than three decades.A prodigious fundraiser and former astronaut, Nelson has raised millions for the Democratic Party and helped it re-establish a foothold in Florida, one of the most critical battleground states in national politics.

Most political observers consider Nelson a Senate centrist, a reputation that is somewhat at odds with his mostly liberal voting record. Nonetheless, Nelson is hardly a partisan firebrand. Expect him to make his voice heard on any upcoming decisions regarding the space program, which is an important employer for his constituents and among the biggest personal causes of his life.