Once among the GOP favorites, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist says he will now run as an independent for the upcoming midterm elections.

Many Republican leaders have turned against Crist since he announced the decision, Thursday.

"I don't have either party helping me. But I need you. I need you more than ever," the governor said, surrounded by supporters carrying signs including "Democrats for Crist."

Florida's election offices are preparing for a three-way race between Crist, Republican Tea Party favorite Marco Rubio and likely Democratic nominee Kendrick Meek.

The governor's chances of winning as an independent seem slim. Many Republicans fear his switch will lead to a split vote that would benefit the Democratic nominee.

Crist's odds as a GOP candidate were even less. A recent poll showed Crist more than 20 points behind Rubio in the August primary.

CBN News White House Correspondent David Brody has been following the Florida Senate race. Click play for his comments on Crist's decision to run as an independent and what voters are saying.