U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris has decided whether she will run for retiring Sen. Bob Graham's seat and plans to reveal her plans next week, associates said Wednesday.

Harris did not return calls for comment, but supporters said she is leaning toward entering the race.

She would become the instant front-runner in a crowded field of Republicans while also stirring up memories of the 2000 presidential election recount. As secretary of state, Harris oversaw the disputed count that gave George W. Bush a crucial 537-vote victory in Florida.

A spokesman for Harris said she was still considering the race and an announcement might come next week. But others close to her said she has already made up her mind.

"She knows what she's going to do," said Margaret Wise, a friend and campaign finance chairwoman.

Sarasota County's GOP chairman, Tramm Hudson, said he spoke to Harris Tuesday night and that she seemed ready to run.

Graham, a Democrat, announced his retirement in November. Several Democrats have expressed interested in the seat.