twitter.com/charliecristfl Charlie Crist, seen with his wife Carole, announces on Twitter that he has joined the Democratic Party.

Former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist announced on Twitter Friday that he has joined the Democratic Party.

Crist was first elected to the governorship as a Republican in 2006. He ran for the U.S. Senate as an independent in 2010, losing a three-way race to Republican Marco Rubio.

Crist’s tweet read:"Proud and honored to join the Democratic Party in the home of President @Barack Obama!"

His message included a photo of him holding up a Florida voter registration application with his wife, Carole, next to him.

Crist signed the papers changing his affiliation from independent to Democrat at a Christmas reception at The White House, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Crist spoke at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte that nominated Obama for a second term, and had campaigned for Obama's reelection in Florida.

A message left for Crist by The Associated Press wasn't immediately returned Friday night.

Crist, 56, is viewed as a potential Democratic challenger to Florida's Republican Gov. Rick Scott in 2014.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.