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Rubio "Seriously Considering" 2016 Presidential Run

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Keynoting a graduation ceremony for small business owners at Miami Dade College, Marco Rubio might have been speaking of himself.

"Anyone from anywhere can accomplish anything," he said.

And in his first public appearance in South Florida since aides alluded to a possible presidential run, Rubio for the first time offered personal confirmation.

"We are seriously considering running for president. We'll have a decision to make fairly soon, and an announcement to make with it as well.  I promise you will all know about it," said Rubio.

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He thrust himself on the national stage last week, presiding over a hearing critical of the administration's cozying up to Cuba.

He has hired considerable campaign staff, and looks to be wanting more.

His political website says "We are still looking for a few good men and women on Team Marco."

Two weeks ago he traveled the country, drumming up supporters and money.

"What did you experience?" CBS4's Gary Nelson asked Rubio.

"Well, will have more about that soon, but obviously we have a lot of people around the country who have been very encouraging," Rubio responded.

Rubio received even more encouragement on Monday from the CEO of Goldman Sachs, the sponsor of the event at MDC.

"He's doing great things now, and destined for even greater things to come," Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein.

And the CEO of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce gushed over Rubio.

"Marco represents the future of this country. I think it's wonderful to see bright, young people like Marco wanting to step into a roll of that sort," said Javier Palomarez.

Rubio declined to comment on the possibility of a run against Jeb Bush, his former mentor, or the other candidates who might well dive in.

With Bush the de facto front runner, and a passel of potential contenders out there, Rubio needs to make some decision soon.

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