Florida Political News: Oct. 28, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Thu Oct 28, 2010 at 09:59:35 AM EDT

Sink sitting pretty in Quinnipiac

by: Florida Politics

Thu Oct 28, 2010 at 07:15:31 AM EDT

"In the hotly-contested governor's race, State Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, the Democrat, has 45 percent to 41 percent for Republican Rick Scott, the independent Quinnipiac (KWIN-uh-pe-ack) University survey, conducted by live interviewers, finds. Another 11 percent are undecided and 9 percent of those who name a candidate say they might change their mind in this final week before Election Day."

Sink gets 16 percent of Republicans, 85 percent of Democrats and 42 percent of independent voters. Scott wins 74 percent of Republicans, 8 percent of Democrats and 37 percent of independents.

There is a relatively small gender gap in both races. Rubio gets 45 percent of the male vote and 39 percent of the female vote. Crist gets 40 percent of men and 30 percent of women, while Meek gets just 9 percent of men and 22 percent of women.

In the race for governor, Ms. Sink gets 44 percent of men and 46 percent of women. Scott wins 45 percent of men and 38 percent of women.

"Given that Ms. Sink would become Florida's first female governor, the lack of a larger gender gap is perhaps surprising," said Brown. "She has some momentum, but anything can happen in the final days before Election Day."

Also in Ms. Sink's favor is that she is viewed more positively by the likely electorate. Among likely voters she is seen favorably by 43 percent and unfavorably by 39 percent, while Scott is viewed favorably by 34 percent and unfavorably by 50 percent.

"The relatively wide gap between Scott's unfavorable rating and his support in the horse race against Ms. Sink is unusual and probably reflects the Republican leaning of the electorate," said Brown.

From October 18 - 24, Quinnipiac University surveyed 784 Florida likely voters with a margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points.

Florida Political News: Oct. 27, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Wed Oct 27, 2010 at 09:41:44 AM EDT

"Truth is a slippery thing for Rick Scott"

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Even by the elastic standards of political campaigns, it evident that truth is a slippery thing for Rick Scott. He will say anything to advance his interests."

That was evident during his ugly debate with Democrat Sink Monday night. Scott, who has muddy footprints all over his career, spent the evening seeking to taint Sink's reputation and distort her views.

Sink was no Mother Teresa during the confrontation. She fired an aide who slipped her a note on a Blackberry, violating the evening's rules. But Sink needed no prompting to defend herself. She clearly was insulted by the personal attacks from someone of such a dubious background. ...

But in Scott's privileged world, if he says something, it is so.

Florida voters are being asked to hire a man who has lived in Florida only seven years and whose main business accomplishment was leading a company that aggressively ripped off taxpayers. He's confident, we'll say that about him, but as viewers saw Monday, Rick Scott doesn't let truth or decency get in the way of his ambitions.

Bits and Pieces

Kevin Derby's "Political Bits and Pieces".

Scott's "political fraud"

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "Rick Scott's company scammed the taxpayers. As we saw in Monday night's debate, Rick Scott aims to become governor by scamming the voters."

This political fraud is Mr. Scott's contention that his opponent, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, has been responsible for Florida's job losses over the last four years. "You've had your chance," Mr. Scott said to Ms. Sink on Monday, noting that unemployment when Ms. Sink took office in January 2007 was 3.3 percent and now is almost 12 percent.

In fact, since taking office Ms. Sink has had no authority to make decisions on taxes or spending or any policy that might have directly affected Florida's economy. All those decisions have been made by the Republican-led Legislature, including the House Speaker-designate and Senate President-designate. Both are supporting Mr. Scott.

What's wrong with Hillsborough?

"Beneath an infamous rebel flag in east Tampa".

Kosmas too cautious?

"By her own admission, U.S. Rep. Suzanne Kosmas is a 'careful' lawmaker." "Caution may cost Kosmas at the polls".

Scott's last, desperate shot

With Florida's alleged political journalists in tow, the Scott campaign is desperately trying to spin Sink's text message gaffe into a campaign issue.

Scott, the notorious fraudster of all people, is actually claiming that he was "shocked ... shocked" by the gaffe. "Alex Sink fires campaign aide over debate breach". See also "Debate debacle hot topic as far away as the UK", "Sink forced to defend herself after she's accused of cheating during debate", "Sink on defensive over text during debate", "Sink debate cheating flap grows", "Alex Sink fires aide who text-messaged during debate" and "Text message during debate sets off a buzz".

The righties, happy to give Scott a pass on his fraud, are aghast at Sink glancing at a text message: "Alex Sink: Cheating, Lying, Losing".

Senate debate

"Independent candidate Charlie Crist was taken to task during the final U.S. Senate debate Tuesday for his answers on leaving the GOP, shifting policy positions, and whether he'd caucus with Democrats or the GOP should he win the three-way race." "Crist party switch challenged in Senate debate". See also "Rubio, Meek push Crist on leaving GOP in last debate for Senate seat", "Charlie Crist on Hotseat in Final Senate Debate", "Marco Rubio tries to stay above fray in last U.S. Senate debate", "Governor is target as Crist, Meek and Rubio square off for final debate in U.S. Senate race", "Crist takes heat at final debate" and "Senate debate more civil, substantive".

Poll: Sink with double digit lead among indies

"Following Monday night’s debate, momentum in Florida’s race for governor appears to be slowly shifting to Rick Scott. Republican Scott jumped to a 2-point lead immediately prior to, and during, his red-hot CNN slugfest with Democrat Alex Sink."

Sunshine State News' nightly tracking poll of likely voters shows Scott moving from a 45-45 tie with Sink on Oct. 20 to a 47-45 advantage Monday night.

Two weeks earlier (Oct. 12-13), Sink held a 48-45 advantage.

Jim Lee, president of Voter Survey Service, which conducted this and all Sunshine State News Polls, said the fundamental dynamics of the race have changed in three weeks.

"These two are so evenly matched," Lee said, "that for the last three weeks they have traded the lead more than once -- yet the election is now in Scott's favor. I say this because Scott leads by nearly 2 points overall (46-45) -- not a lot -- but by 4 points (48-44) among those who say they are most likely to vote."

Sink does have the advantage in independent voters. She's gone from a 45-45 tie on Oct. 6 to a 47-34 lead in the current poll. ...

The Sunshine State News Poll of 1,547 likely voters, taken Oct. 24-25, has a margin of error of +/- 2.4 percent at the 95 percent confidence level.

For a look at the poll's crosstabs, click on the link [.pdf].

"Three Florida Democrats could lose their seats"

"Florida's unusual three-way U.S. Senate race is no longer one of the nation's most interesting, with Republican Marco Rubio pulling away from independent Charlie Crist and Democrat Kendrick Meek. But the Sunshine State matters prominently in the U.S. House battle. At least three Florida Democrats could lose their seats."

Reps. Suzanne Kosmas and Alan Grayson have been hammered over their votes on health care and stimulus. Their Central Florida districts are closely split and the seats were held by Republicans just two years ago, so it would not be shocking if they change hands again.

But Republicans also have a good chance at taking out seven-term Rep. Allen Boyd of Monticello. Also in a tight race is Rep. Ron Klein, D-Boca Raton, who has been unable to shake tea party candidate Allen West.

Florida holds one of the few bright spots for Democrats anywhere. An open House seat in Miami that was held by the GOP is a toss-up between Democrat Joe Garcia and Republican David Rivera.

There are six or seven such seats across the country, said U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Weston, who is one of the leaders of the Democrats' national effort. That could bump the number of seats Republicans have to win to take the majority, from 39 to 45 or more.

"If this is going to be an anti-incumbent year," Wasserman Schultz said, "it's going to be anti-incumbent for them, too."

Scott "a momentous IQ test for voters"

Carl Hiaasen: "Even by Florida's shaky standards, Rick Scott stands out as one of the most outlandish characters ever to pop out of the woodwork."

• His presence makes this year's governor's race a momentous IQ test for voters. A man who couldn't run an honest company now wants to run state government. Duh.

• It's one of those you-can't-be-serious stories that just might come true.

Voters might know more about the real Rick Scott if he hadn't invoked the Fifth Amendment 75 times in that now-infamous 2000 deposition in which he refused to answer questions.

That was his right, of course. He was a private citizen then, not a candidate for public office. He didn't even move to Florida until 2003.

Yet, this year, six days before filing for the governor's race, Scott gave another deposition in a case involving Solantic, a chain of urgent-care health centers that he started.

A doctor had accused Solantic of submitting false medical information. The lawsuit was settled by a confidential agreement, and Scott refuses to release the contents of his testimony.

"A private matter," he said.

Not when you're running for governor it isn't. Not when you're promoting yourself as a business whiz and natural-born leader.

Editors want a class size redo

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "As they fill out their ballots, voters should pause before reflexively making their decision on a commonsense amendment to ease class size limits. Amendment 8 would relax — ever so slightly — the 2002 voter mandate for smaller public school class sizes to make it more workable and rational. It could save up to $1 billion a year for other needs." "Don't believe class size myths".

Rivera on ropes

"A case involving the potential removal of a Florida congressional candidate from the ballot over questions about his financial disclosures is set to go before a judge days before the election. Attorney William Barzee and a 25th congressional district resident who filed the case are expected to make their first appearance in Miami federal court Wednesday." "Lawyer seeks removal of Miami congressional candidate David Rivera".

"Republicans feeling good"

"Unlike 2006 and 2008, Republicans feeling good with one week to go".

"Election-year bonus would cost at least $12 billion"

The Orlando Sentinel editors: "In this year's rough and tumble battle for U.S. Senate in Florida, unanimity on issues has been rare among the three major candidates. But recently each gave a thumbs-up to a proposal to dole out $250 checks to every Social Security recipient — an election-year bonus that would cost at least $12 billion." "Dithering on the deficit".

Carroll comes down from the house, and flops

"Democratic gubernatorial candidate Alex Sink just wanted to show she takes black voters seriously."

But her appearance Tuesday on a black radio station in Miami spurred a star-studded free-for-all that found Republicans claiming they would do more for minorities than Sink, who was criticized for blowing off an NAACP candidate forum in Miami last week.

Jennifer Carroll, who is GOP candidate Rick Scott's running mate, applauded the radio station's owner, Bishop Victor Curry, for blasting Sink for not attending the forum. ...

In the end, Sink got what she was seeking. While Curry said he was impressed with Carroll, he said Scott gives him the "heebie-jeebies."

"All is forgiven. We have to move on," Curry said. "I'm going to support Alex Sink. I'm going to vote for her."

The best he can do?

Democratic U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, FlaDem superstar, is having little trouble fending off Republican Mike Prendergast, who parrots failed notions like this: "the best way to increase the number of jobs was to enact free-market solutions, cut the size of the federal government, protect small businesses and increase American exports." "Mike Prendergast Goes After Kathy Castor on Spending, Jobs".

Lay down with dogs

"Republican candidate Lizbeth Benacquisto is demanding that Democratic opponent Kevin Rader retract a television ad that accuses her of 'extreme' views on abortion, saying it unfairly implies she would outlaw the procedure even for rape victims or women at risk of dying." Benacquisto

took issue with the ad's statement that groups supporting her would ban abortion in all cases, with no exceptions for rape, incest or danger to the woman's life. Groups that support her may hold that position, Benacquisto said, but she said that's not her view, so connecting the two is unfair.

Calls to the Christian Coalition of Florida and the Florida Right to Life PAC were not returned.

West was a union thug!

"Republican congressional candidate Allen West voluntarily joined the Broward Teachers Union between 2004 and 2005 for the one year he was a high school social studies teacher at Deerfield Beach High School, a move at odds with his hostile attacks on unions during this year’s election." "Despite anti-union rhetoric, West voluntarily joined teachers’ union in ’04-’05". Related: "Florida AFL-CIO on West’s anti-union rhetoric: ‘Says a lot of him as a person’".

More West folly: "We Love USA PAC spends on behalf of West, says ‘Obama and the left’ ‘detest’ America".

Putnam at the trough

"The contributions to Putnam are only a fraction of the $3.8 million he has received in contributions from all sources. Also, Putnam, who is from a Polk County farming and ranching family, has long associations with many on the Fair Authority and said their support probably has little to do with the development project." "Putnam gets campaign cash from fairgrounds-project backers".

Oh no ... not again!

"Questions about the voting machine glitch that struck an early vote location in Sarasota’s largely African-American community of Newtown Sunday evening continue to linger. The malfunction occurred shortly after a nearby rally, which featured U.S. Senate candidate Kendrick Meek, concluded. The chair of the Sarasota County Democratic Party has called the glitch an example of 'voter suppression.'" "Sarasota NAACP president: Voting glitch a concern as election day approaches".

Never mind the rules

"Haridopolos wants a new Medicaid waiver".

"Campaign roundup"

"U.S. Senate candidates hold final debate, final days bring new ads from Rubio and Sink, Klein goes after Allen West for comment regarding the black community" and much more. "Campaign roundup".

Courts have been "squeezed for years"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "The outrage over the $48 million 'Taj Mahal' courthouse in Tallahassee is justified ... But a black eye at one North Florida appellate court shouldn't be used as a cheap excuse to chop more funding from the state court system, which has been squeezed for years." "Florida's struggling courts need $$". Related: "Jeff Atwater Sets Record Straight on 'Taj Mahal'".

HD 42

"Florida House of Representatives District 42 voters will choose between an incumbent who is a former business executive and a real-estate broker who is running with no party affiliation." "Republican O'Toole faces no-party-affiliation candidate in re-election bid".

Just another day at the office

While the rest of us were enjoying dinner with our families yesterday, "a Delray Beach Fire Rescue hazardous materials team went to ... investigate a report of a container inside a car that was leaking a red substance, officials said. 'It was leaking a red fluid,' said Fire Rescue Lt. Ed Beardsley. ... The gender of the body was not immediately known, and additional details were not available late Tuesday." "Hazmat call about leaking red fluid leads to discovery of body in cardboard box".

Dealing with nightmarish things that you and I never have to see, is just another day at the office for Florida's public safety employees. Yet they are attacked in the media daily for having the gall to ask for decent pensions.

"Decision of Scott’s was outrageous"

"Scott’s decision to summarily reject invitations to meet with all editorial boards, so he could attempt to avoid scrutiny, so he could avoid an embarrassing Palin-type moment where, who knows, he might say he’s an expert on Cuba because, well, it’s next to Florida … that decision of Scott’s was outrageous. And something voters should be outraged about." "Rick Scott hates the press. More power to him?"

Scott, Sink in homestretch drive

"Fresh from a bruising, final governor’s race debate, Republican Rick Scott and Democrat Alex Sink hit the road Tuesday in a homestretch drive to push their voters to the polls while sharpening their attacks on each other." "Alex Sink, Rick Scott Hit the Road, and Each Other, Post-Debate". See also "Scott bus tours across Florida in final seven days of campaigning".

Scott flip flops

"Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott, who on Monday sounded like he'd pull the plug on a $2.6-billion high-speed rail project connecting Orlando and Tampa, softened that opposition some on Tuesday." "Scott softens opposition to high-speed rail".

Norman appeal

"Lawyers for Hillsborough County Commissioner Jim Norman tried to convince three appeals court judges Tuesday that Norman was wrongly removed from the ballot in a state Senate race." "Norman argues he was wrongly removed from ballot".

Journalists in a dither about 50,700 votes

"Florida Democrats have spent the last year boasting that the gains they made with the $75 million-plus Obama Florida operation — better voter targeting, technological improvements and a wave of new voters — would generate a rare victory for a party poised nationally for a potentially massive bloodletting in congressional and gubernatorial contests."

But it isn't turning out that way — at least not yet.

Election data show Republicans are on a verge of an unheralded feat in Florida elections — winning the early-voting battle.

Through the first eight days of early voting, 491,764 voters have cast ballots. And although Republicans have never out-performed Democrats in early voting, the GOP has built a stunning lead of 50,700 voters through Monday, according to an Orlando Sentinel/Sun Sentinel analysis. ...

Despite the numbers so far, Democrats say they are poised to surprise many doomsayers, and that the 153,000 independents who have already cast ballots are trending toward Sink.

Power companies assume control of PSC

"The Florida Public Service Commission tossed tradition aside Tuesday to elect newcomer Arthur Graham as chairman over Commissioner Nathan Skop, who will be leaving at the end of the year. Skop is the last of four commissioners being shown the door by lawmakers, or a nominating panel appointed by legislative leaders, after voting down large rate increases sought by Florida's two biggest power companies." "Florida PSC names Arthur Graham chairman". See also "Outspoken Skop bypassed for PSC chairmanship" ("Former Chairman Nancy Argenziano calls agency "a joke" and say it's reverting back to its old ways.")

When in Doubt, Try Candor

by: Robert McKnight

Tue Oct 26, 2010 at 10:49:18 AM EDT

It is amazing how many candidates yield to the temptation of hyming and hawing when confronted with difficult issues or votes.  It is as if the public cannot handle a candid answer, if it might be against public sentiment or the polls.

Quite the contrary, I found blunt and truthful answers were not only welcomed, but even respected, certainly more than the ducking and dodging.  In my campaign against 2 state senators in 1978, most polls showed my district did not support a particular issue.  In my previous House service, I had not only pledged to vote for the issue, but had actually voted for it twice.  I knew those votes would in turn lose me some votes in this tough campaign, but felt that this was one of those situtations where at least some well intentioned people could disagree.  I confronted the issue directly, and suggested that if this was the only important vote to them, they should vote for one of my opponents, and added that I would understand that.  I have no idea about how many did, but I do know that I won the election while the polling on that issue suggested I would lose.

When in doubt, candidates should try candor.

Florida Political News: Oct. 26, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Tue Oct 26, 2010 at 09:37:46 AM EDT

"Scott and Sink display mutual contempt"

"Final televised debate between Scott and Sink is full of anger, annoyance and snickers." "Gubernatorial candidates Sink, Scott can't hide their disdain". See also "Sink, Scott spar over issues, slam each other's character in final gubernatorial debate", "Gubernatorial hopefuls hurl mud in last debate", "Governor's race: Rick Scott, Alex Sink save harshest words for last debate", "CNN Gubernatorial Debate a Brutal Final Battle" and "Final Sink-Scott debate filled with heated exchanges".

"Rick Scott and Alex Sink displayed contempt for each other in their final debate Monday and gave a nationwide TV audience a glimpse of the mounting tension in the close race for governor."

Seated side-by-side in a college theater, both candidates showed flashes of anger as they attacked each other over business records, campaign promises and TV ads. Three times Scott scolded Sink for smiling or laughing as he criticized her.

"What are you smiling about? You don't care about seniors? Is that the deal?" Scott said, accusing Sink's former bank of ripping off customers.

Sink sometimes showed impatience with Scott and the moderators. In an exchange with Scott over NationsBank selling questionable securities, Sink snapped at Scott: "You can't lecture me about fraud."

In a freewheeling nationally televised debate at the University of South Florida, Sink and Republican Rick Scott frequently sounded like replays of their television commercials. It was at times uncomfortable to watch because of the tension between the two, but Sink kept the upper hand and the cooler head. Scott continued to skirt questions about his stained business record, distort Sink's record and offer little clue that he knows much of anything about state government.

Norman appeal today

"A three-judge appeals court panel will hear arguments today on behalf of Jim Norman and Kevin Ambler as the two politicians continue their legal battle over a state Senate seat." "Norman, Ambler attorneys to argue over who should be on ballot".

Watch the "Live Video from Courtroom" beginning at 9:00AM.

Thank you, Mr. Obama

"Florida's bid for a high-speed train linking Orlando with Tampa is gathering momentum with the likely award this week of $800 million in federal aid, members of the state's congressional delegation revealed Monday." "High-speed rail: Florida gets $800M more from feds". See also "High-Speed Rail: Florida on Track for $800 Million More".

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "High-speed rail leaving the station" ("High-speed rail between Tampa and Orlando took another significant step from dream to reality on Monday.")

Scott going off deep end

"DOT awards Florida $800 million more for high-speed rail; Scott spins project as example of Sink wasting taxpayer dollars".

Final Senate debate

"Gov. Charlie Crist and U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek have one last opportunity to derail front-runner Marco Rubio in their final U.S. Senate debate." "3 US Senate candidates set for for final debate".

"Students of irony, take note"

Howard Troxler: "Four years ago, we decided that future amendments to our state Constitution would need more than 60 percent of the vote to pass. Students of irony, take note: That change passed by only 57.8 percent."

But it passed fair and square under the rules at the time. That 57.8 percent in 2006 decided that today, even 59.99 percent of us cannot change our Constitution.

In the following election in 2008, four out of six amendments passed anyway. Three of them were property tax breaks (always popular), and the fourth was the hot-button issue of a ban on same-sex marriage. Two others would have lost anyway.

But this year, the 60 percent rule is a major factor. It's possible that none of the controversial items on this year's ballot will pass.

Scott doesn't believe global warming is real

"If you don't think humans cause global warming, offshore drilling might still be a good idea for Florida and growth management should be left to local governments and not state bureaucrats, then Republican Rick Scott is your candidate for governor. ... [Scott] is firmly on the side of those who don't buy the scientific consensus that climate change is real and is primarily caused by human activity." "Scott, Sink on polar ends of green spectrum".

Webster, Grayson in dead heat

"Republican Daniel Webster is poised to knock out U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, a new Sunshine State News Poll shows. Webster, a former state senator, leads Grayson, D-Orlando, 48-41. Florida TEA Party candidate Peg Dunmire garnered 4 percent, No Party Affiliation candidate George Metcalfe got 1 percent, and 5 percent of respondents were undecided. In a previous poll, conducted Sept. 25, Webster led Grayson 43-36, an identical 7-point margin." "Poll: Webster Beats Down 'Angry' Grayson" ("The Sunshine State News Poll surveyed 801 likely voters Oct. 22-25 via an automated tracking survey. The margin of error is +/- 3.46 percent.") See crosstabs in .pdf format.

Amendments 5 and 6

"FairDistricts Florida and its supporters say Amendments 5 and 6 will put an end to the way incumbents draw voting district lines every 10 years. But opponents say the rigid requirements would make the Legislature's job of redistricting nearly impossible and have potentially unintended consequences." "Amendments 5 and 6: The Battle of Less Bad".

Say what?

"Cold beer may cost 5 years for state inmate".

"A danger in too much negativity"?

"Senate candidates have tried a more upbeat approach: Democrat Kendrick Meek riding a motorboat, Republican Marco Rubio talking about his family, Charlie Crist stressing his independence."

"But it quickly dissipated into a downward spiral of nastiness," said Susan MacManus, a political scientist at the University of South Florida. "It's making people really question whether they're going to vote at all. There is a danger in too much negativity. There was a paltry turnout in the primary."

Billionaire art collectors know best

"A billionaire businessman says he has collected enough petition signatures for a recall vote aimed at ousting Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez. ... Braman and others are upset with Alvarez over a 12 percent tax increase for some property owners while salaries rise for county workers. ... Braman is an auto dealer and art collector" "Sponsor: Miami-Dade recall effort has signatures". See also "Braman: Signatures in place for recall".

CFO

"The race to be Florida's next chief financial officer has a familiar ring -- a Republican state Senate president squaring off against a female Democratic challenger with limited name recognition." "Voters overlook Jeff Atwater, Loranne Ausley in CFO race". See also "Ausley hits campaign trail on her bicycle".

Class size kerfuffle

"The FEA wants school districts to take the next step and lock in pupil-teacher ratios at each individual classroom. That's what the original 2002 class-size amendment ultimately called for, and reneging on that promise will shortchange academics, the FEA argues." "School Boards Battle Teachers Union on Amendment 8".

AG fight

"With little more than a week to go until the election next Tuesday, the attacks are flying in the battle to be Florida’s next attorney general. On Monday, Democratic candidate Sen. Dan Gelber jabbed Republican nominee Pam Bondi as they continue to fight for attention from voters more familiar with the dramatic gubernatorial and U.S. Senate contests." "AG Race Turns on Endorsements and Attacks".

FRS fuss

"A Republican sheriff has written a memo to his employees urging them to consider how they vote this election while recounting a meeting with gubernatorial nominee Rick Scott and changes to the Florida Retirement System."

In the final week of the close race between Scott and Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, a memo by Clay County Sheriff Rick Beseler has caused a stir in law-enforcement circles. "Mr. Scott seems determined that the correct course of action is to reduce (Florida Retirement System) benefits. I was unable to convince him otherwise," Beseler's memo concluded. "I hope this information will be useful as you prepare to cast your ballots."

The candidate's campaign said Scott is not firmly committed to cutting police pensions — although jobs and benefits will "be on the table" in reducing costs of state government. A Jacksonville sheriff who attended the same meeting Beseler had with the GOP nominee said he took away a different message, that sheriffs would be consulted.

Sink's campaign pounced on the Beseler memo, saying Scott's record as a cost-cutting hospital executive would be reflected in his approach to state government if he wins next Tuesday.

Beseler last week wrote an "all personnel" memo to his staff about an Oct. 14 meeting between Scott and six sheriffs that discussed the Florida Retirement System. He did not suggest how employees should vote.

Biden in Orlando

"Vice President Joe Biden dropped into Orlando Monday, telling a convention of police chiefs that should Republicans seize control of Congress, federal funding to local law enforcement would likely shrink." "Biden: A GOP Congress won't fund local cops".

Enthusiasm gap?

"More than 70 percent of the 18- to 29-year-olds across the country surveyed by Harvard University recently said they were not sure they would vote this time around. Yet in the 2008 presidential election, voters 18 to 24 were the only age group to show a statistically significant increase in turnout — 49 percent compared with 47 percent in 2004, according to the U.S. Census Bureau." "Enthusiasm gap hits young voters, hurts Dems".

The company he keeps

"Congressional candidate Allen West's massive quarterly financial reports document donations made to the far-right Republican by a pair of controversial figures: an Ohio man accused of 'racial vigilantism' and a soldier imprisoned for the unpremeditated murder of an Iraqi terror suspect." "West’s campaign finance sheets link him to controversial figures".

Big of 'em

"BP to give Fla. additional $20M". Related: "BP's big plans".

Just in case

In Florida, a "recount of paper ballots is automatic if the vote margin is 0.5 percent or less. If that margin is less than or equal to 0.25 percent, it triggers a hand recount of ballots containing undervotes and overvotes. However, that hand count is only mandatory if the total number of ballots with undervotes and overvotes could change the initial results of the election." "A Rundown Of Recount Laws In States With Close Statewide Elections".

Senate race cash

"The three U.S. Senate candidates began the last month of their campaigns exactly like their standings in the polls: GOP candidate Marco Rubio had $5.5 million left in the bank; independent Charlie Crist had $1.39 million and Democrat Kendrick Meek had $415,042." "Florida Senate candidate Marco Rubio leads polls and push for cash".

SD 8

"Florida legislators rarely lose re-election, but the Democrats have one powerful Republican they hope to defeat: Sen. John Thrasher, who doubles as state GOP chairman. While the overwhelming majority of Florida senators and state representatives from both parties have weak or no opposition in the Nov. 2 election, the Democrats believe that former TV anchorwoman Deborah Gianoulis could beat Thrasher, even though the Republicans hold a 60-40 registration edge in District 8." "GOP John Thrasher faces former anchorwoman in Senate race".

SD 24

"Incumbent state Sen. Thad Altman is seeking re-election to the seat he won in 2008, saying he would offer targeted tax incentives to aerospace and commercial space-flight industries that would help grow jobs. Steve Edmonds, a small-business owner, said he would do anything in his power to secure funds for the space program, while lobbying the federal government to attract private industry to replace public sector jobs." "State Senate District 24 voters choose between incumbent Thad Altman and small-business owner".

HD 26

"During the GOP primary, Ormond Beach Mayor Fred Costello defeated a former police officer and a Navy veteran to compete in the general election for the state House District 26. He now faces Democrat Tim Huth in the Nov. 2 election. Huth, a former deputy superintendent of Volusia County schools, was unopposed in the primary." "Ormond Beach Mayor Fred Costello runs against Tim Huth for Florida House District 26".

HD 33

"The state House seat in District 33, vacated by Rep. Sandy Adams Congressional bid, has attracted two political newcomers and one perennial Libertarian candidate. The district includes part of east Seminole and Orange and west Volusia counties, an area made up of residential communities and commercial corridors near largely undeveloped areas. The Republican and Democrat running for office say they have the best ideas to support job creation. Republican Jason Brodeur thinks that Florida has to become more business-friendly to keep and attract important industries. Democrat Leo Cruz would like to encourage sustainable development while streamlining government. The two major-party candidates also face Libertarian Franklin Perez, who would like nothing short of re-making how government works." "Three candidates vie for Sandy Adams' former seat in State House District 33".

HD 34

"Voters in state House District 34 are witnessing an intensely fought battle between a powerful incumbent on the Republican side, a rising star for his party, and a relative newcomer Democrat who thinks his opponent is vulnerable on a number of personal and political fronts. A Tea Party candidate in the race has made little effort to mount a campaign." "Incumbent Chris Dorworth and challenger Steve Barnes criticize each other for House District 34 seat".

HD 35

"District 35 voters will be able to choose from among three candidates for a state House seat: an incumbent and two challengers. ... The incumbent, Republican state Rep. Dean Cannon, set to become House speaker after the 2010 election, wants to encourage economic growth by giving incentives to small businesses. His Democratic opponent, businesswoman Amy Mercado, thinks the state relies far too heavily on growth to sustain its economy. Tea Party candidate Juanita "Nina" Virone is a late-comer who recently launched a campaign website. Virone thinks government is too heavily involved in day-to-day lives." "House District 35 residents pick between incumbent, Dean Cannon and two challengers".

HD 36

"Democratic state Rep. Scott Randolph faces a challenge from Republican Greg Reynolds in his fight for a third term representing House District 36. Randolph, an environmental lawyer, was elected in 2006 and easily won a second term two years later. Before he was elected, he worked as staff attorney for Legal Environmental Assistance Foundation in Tallahassee, and later as the state policy director and staff attorney for Clean Water Action, a national organization that defends the Clean Water Act and other public health issues." "Scott Randolph fights for a third term in state House District 36".

HD 38

"Incumbent Bryan Nelson, a Republican, wants to return to Tallahassee to fight against what he sees as costly regulation on homeowners. James 'Heinie' Heinzelman, a Tea Party candidate, said that if elected he would try to stop Sunrail, a light rail project that Nelson supported." "Candidates in State House District 38 say they want to protect taxpayers".

HD 41

"State Rep. Steve Precourt, R- Orlando, will try to defend the seat he first won in 2006 against Lee Douglas, a Democrat who hopes to improve the educational system in Florida and Tea Party candidate Jon Foley. District 41 encompasses a part of western Orange County, a portion of south Lake and areas of northern Osceola and Polk counties." "Orange County District 40 voters have choice of incumbent Eric Eisnaugle or two challengers".

HD 42

"Florida House of Representatives District 42 voters will choose between an incumbent who is a former business executive and a real-estate broker who is running with no party affiliation. State Rep. Marlene O'Toole, a Lady Lake Republican, is seeking a second two-year term against challenger Jeff Shoobridge, a Mascotte resident who wants to bring a common-sense approach to Tallahassee. District 42 encompasses western Lake, including The Villages and Lady Lake, part of south Lake, a large chunk of northern Sumter and the southern tip of Marion." "Marlene O'Toole faces no-party-affiliation candidate in House District 42 election".

HD 49

"Two-term state Rep. Darren Soto, D-Orlando, is running for re-election in District 49 against a little-known, no-party affiliation candidate Betty La Chance." "Darren Soto runs for re-election against little-known opponent in Florida House District 49".

HD 79

"First-term state Rep. Mike Horner, R- Kissimmee, is defending his District 79 seat against challenges from Tea Party candidate José Alvarez and Democrat Eddie Freeman." "First-term incumbent Mike Horner challenged by two candidates in District 79 race".

Florida Political News: Oct. 25, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Mon Oct 25, 2010 at 09:47:43 AM EDT

Senate debate spins "out of control"

"Florida Gov. Charlie Crist defends his changing positions on issues by saying as a former college quarterback he knows how to call an audible. By the end of Sunday's debate with his opponents for U.S. Senate, it looked like he was throwing a Hail Mary."

The debate spun out of control near the end as independent Crist and Republican Marco Rubio rapidly talked over each other.

Is Florida or California the dumbest state?

Carl Hiassen: "If Scott wins, it will surely reignite the debate over whether Florida or California is the dumbest state in the union. ... At every appearance, Scott grandly pledges to single-handedly slash property taxes, create 700,000 new jobs and shrink state government. And right after that, he’ll climb into a great big balloon and fly Dorothy and Toto back to Kansas." "Scott is either incompetent or a lying crook".

Debate prep

"Locked in a close, contentious race for Florida governor, Rick Scott and Alex Sink are set to face off in one more debate before next week's election. The CNN debate Monday night at the University of South Florida in Tampa is critical for Republican nominee Scott and Democrat Sink as they try to woo still-undecided voters." "Fla. gubernatorial hopefuls debate for last time".

Dems after Thrasher

"Florida legislators rarely lose re-election, but the Democrats have one powerful Republican they hope to defeat: Sen. John Thrasher, who doubles as state GOP chairman. While the overwhelming majority of Florida senators and state representatives from both parties have weak or no opposition in the Nov. 2 election, the Democrats believe that former TV anchorwoman Deborah Gianoulis could beat Thrasher, even though the Republicans hold a 60-40 registration edge in District 8." "GOP leader faces tough Senate race in Jacksonville".

Amendments going down

"If Florida voters seem eager to throw incumbents out of office this year, they appear even more likely to vote down state constitutional amendments." "Proposals to loosen Florida's class size caps, to limit the Legislature's power to protect lawmakers' seats and to put some building and development questions on local ballots all appear headed toward defeat, according to a new St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9 poll." "Voters not backing proposed amendments, Times/Herald Bay News 9 poll shows".

Strategic voters

"There are indications – mostly anecdotal, not hard evidence -- that some Democrats and liberal independents may be holding up their decisions in the Senate race. The Crist and Meek campaigns each hope that will lead to a large shift to their candidate as Election Day nears."

But whether enough would switch from Meek to Crist -- or from Crist to Meek – to defeat Rubio is highly speculative, and not very likely, said some political experts.

Without a major shift, polling numbers appear to show Rubio in a near-invincible position.

Meek has "crucial role" in Guv race

"In Florida's three-way race for the U.S. Senate, Congressman Kendrick Meek is stuck in third, 20 points behind frontrunner Marco Rubio and facing almost certain defeat. But his role in the 2010 mid-term election is still significant."

Meek, an African-American from Miami, will play a crucial role in getting out the state's black voters. And that, in turn, could determine who wins Florida's governor's race: Democrat Alex Sink or Republican Rick Scott.

Sink stands to gain if African-American voters turn out in big numbers, as they did during the 2008 election. Scott, whose black support is in single digits according to the most recent Mason-Dixon poll, benefits if they stay home.

"No matter what happens with his race, he's [Meek] important for the rest of the ticket," said Florida State University professor Lance deHaven-Smith. "If Alex Sink wins, he may be the key to her victory."

Mack going after Nelson?

"While he may have a famous name, U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, R-Fla. is still unknown to many Floridians -- but he is looking to change that with his strong stance on foreign policy issues, leading some to wonder if he is gunning for the U.S. Senate in 2012." "Connie Mack Raises Profile, Follows His Rising Star".

SD 27

"At stake is the seat of Sen. Dave Aronberg, D-Greenacres, who abandoned the seat to make a failed bid for the Democratic Florida attorney general nomination. The seat is important because it could decide whether the Republicans can attain a veto-proof majority in the Senate. The GOP currently has a 26-14 advantage over Democrats in the Senate, just under the two-thirds majority needed to override gubernatorial vetoes." "Big Bucks in Liz Benacquisto, Kevin Rader SD 27 Fight".

"So much for Florida"

Fred Grimm: "Not only did that giant horrible plume of oil seem to disperse in the Gulf, it disappeared from politics."

The new right-wing activists, poised to chase Democrats out of their majority positions in Congress, regard talk of global warming as biblical heresy. As former House Majority Leader Dick Armey, reincarnated as a tea party intellectual, put it, "The Lord God Almighty made the heavens and the Earth to his satisfaction. It is quite pretentious of we little weaklings here on earth to think that we are going to destroy God's creation.''

A New York Times/CBS poll this month found only 14 percent of the tea partiers called global warming an imminent problem. More than half doubted that global warming posed a future problem.

After Nov. 2, the new political establishment will ignore all those secular worries about melting polar caps, massive wildfires, dust storms, ocean dead zones and a rising sea that could inundate much of the Florida peninsula.

So much for worries about preventing future deep-water spills. So much for carbon-cutting measures that might slow global warming. If climate scientists are right about rising sea levels, and the tea partiers are wrong, so much for Florida.

Dyer endorses Cannon

Nancy Smith: "Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and former Miami Mayor Maurice Ferre, both Democrats, showed rare courage among today's career politicians, breaking ranks with their party last week to support Republicans they believe will be better for Florida than the Democratic nominees. ... As loyal a Democrat as he is, Dyer nevertheless feels a kinship toward Cannon, who helped get SunRail – his pet transportation project – passed in the House. It nevertheless took a lot of guts for him to bite the hand that feeds him." "Buddy Dyer, Maurice Ferre, Heroes; Susan Bucher from Hanging Chad Heaven, Zero".

Sink, Scott saturate air waves

"Candidates for governor combined to spend more than $5 million in their respective bids last week as they saturated the air waves and amped up efforts to finish strongly in a race set to end in less than two weeks, the state Division of Elections reported on Friday." "Scott/Sink Spent $5 Million Week Ending Oct. 15".

Attack mailer

"Dan Gelber says attack mailer is insulting and inaccurate".

"Metaphor for all things liberal"

"Barack Obama was a symbol of hope and change only two years ago. Now he's being used as a "metaphor for all things liberal" in the Florida governor's race, Democratic lieutenant governor candidate Rod Smith says." "Rod Smith says Rick Scott is using Obama to paint the Democratic ticket as liberal".

HD 36

"The race for Florida House District 36 can be read as an exact replica of how Republicans would like to see elections all over the country fall: a political newcomer takes on a two-term incumbent in a Democratic district and rides a Republican wave to an upset." "Political Newcomer Greg Reynolds Guns for Incumbent Dem Scott Randolph in HD 36".

Wingnuts in a dither

"End of Florida's gay adoption ban increases pool of prospective parents".

Appoint judges

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Florida elects its county and circuit judges, a process state voters reaffirmed a decade ago. But that process, as a recent controversy shows, creates conflicts that might erode public confidence in a fair, impartial and independent judicial system." "Florida should switch from electing to appointing trial judges".

Bondi, Gelber "disagree on just about everything"

"In the cozy confines of a cable TV studio, Pam Bondi and Dan Gelber exchanged light banter, but when the lights went on the tone changed dramatically. So it goes for the candidates for Florida attorney general, who disagree on just about everything from President Obama's healthcare plan to restoring civil rights for former felons." "Two ex-prosecutors differ on philosophy, priorities".

Biden in the house

"Vice President Joe Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano are speaking to law enforcement officials at a conference in Orlando." "Biden, Napolitano to speak at Orlando conference".

Rubio whines about Crist "heckling" him

by: Florida Politics

Sun Oct 24, 2010 at 12:50:11 PM EDT

Florida Political News: Oct. 24, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Sun Oct 24, 2010 at 10:00:11 AM EDT

Rubio, Palin and the Teabaggers

"Appearing with Palin were top GOP fundraisers, Republican national committee members and conservative activists such as anti-tax advocate Grover Norquist. The former Alaska governor also was joined by Republican Senate candidate Marco Rubio."

Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele thanked Tea Party supporters for their contributions to the Republican Party.

Rivera has no one left to lie to

"During a high-profile campaign to replace Republican Mario Diaz-Balart, the eight-year legislator has given muddy answers to questions ranging from his past political campaigns to his work outside of lawmaking, which he does not clearly identify."

His first election was marred by controversies that have resurfaced in this year's congressional campaign.

Four days before the 2002 primary, Rivera was involved in a collision on the Palmetto Expressway with a truck carrying his opponent's attack ads to the post office to be mailed to voters. A Florida Highway Patrol report did not assign fault for the crash.

The ads linked Rivera to a domestic-violence restraining order submitted in Miami-Dade Circuit Court in 1994 against one David M. Rivera. The court file has long been destroyed, and a computer record available today contains no additional identifying details.

Rivera denies he is the man named in the complaint and says he does not know Jenia Dorticos, the woman who filed it. He also says he does not recall a response flier produced by his campaign with a photo of Dorticos and a statement defending Rivera under her purported signature. The ad says it was paid for and approved by Rivera's campaign.

Rivera's GOP primary opponents called for his resignation as Miami-Dade Republican Party chairman, saying he used his position to gain advantage in the campaign.

He then came under fire for soliciting campaign contributions from 4,000 FIU employees, prompting the provost to issue a warning about using public resources for political activities. Earlier, Rivera -- despite fellow Republicans saying otherwise -- denied a close relationship with Ariel Pereda, a businessman who facilitates trade with Cuba and has donated to opponent Garcia's campaign.

Rivera also raised eyebrows when he called Garcia an esbirro, or henchman, of Fidel Castro in a Spanish-language radio interview -- and later told The Naples Daily News that he had not used that word, which has harsh implications in the exile community.

Recently, the Miami Herald reported that although Rivera claimed on sworn financial disclosures to have received income from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the agency had no record of him as a contractor.

Rivera later said he worked as a subcontractor -- but wouldn't name who he worked for. He then amended the forms to remove any mention of USAID, saying he was not required to disclose any income from that consulting work from 2003 to 2009.

Senate candidates debate

"The three candidates for Florida's U.S. Senate seat will debate during a televised event hosted by CNN, The St. Petersburg Times and the University of South Florida." "US Senate candidates to debate in Fla. Sunday". See also "U.S. Senate candidates to debate on CNN Sunday". Meanwhile, "Poll shows Rubio again has commanding lead".

"Garcia, version 2010"

"A more mellow Joe Garcia seems better prepared this time around to vie for the congressional race he lost to Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart two years ago." "Democratic House candidate Joe Garcia more mellow this time around".

While the RPOFers teabag ...

... "Democrats rally in East Tampa, call for light rail".

Bondi afraid to be seen with Teabaggers

"Dan Gelber, the Democratic nominee for attorney general, put out a statement Thursday suggesting Bondi's absence may be an attempt to distance herself from Palin, whom many independent voters consider a controversial figure, in the vital last week of early voting and the run-up to Election Day on Nov. 2."

"Throughout her campaign, Bondi has never failed to mention her endorsement from Palin. But now that Bondi needs to appeal to independent voters with less than two weeks to go before Election Day a lot seems to have changed," read the campaign release.

"Ms. Bondi should explain to voters why she all of the sudden is avoiding Palin at all costs," said Gelber's campaign manager, Christian Ulvert.

Not your great grandmother's Republican Party

The St. Pete Times editors: "The question of whether Alex Sink or Rick Scott has been the most ethical, trustworthy leader in private business has been answered decisively in Sink's favor. Scott is marching in sync with his fellow Republicans, incoming Senate President Mike Haridopolos and incoming House Speaker Dean Cannon. What would it mean if the Governor's Mansion and the Legislature were always in lockstep?"

- In Scott's Florida, government would all but abandon its obligation to protect consumers, parents, women, minorities and property owners.

- Insurers, health care companies, developers, private schools and big business would be the big winners — which is why Associated Industries, the Florida Chamber of Commerce and other business interests are in Scott's camp. For the average Floridian, it is not a pretty picture.

- Scott would deregulate property insurance, sending premiums sky-high.

- He would fight health care reform, leaving 4 million uninsured Floridians on their own.

- The evisceration of growth management would continue, allowing developers free rein.

- The state's tourism and fishing industries would be at risk to offshore drilling.

- The Republican talks about school choice, but that's code. Private school vouchers would be expanded and divert money from public schools.

- There would be an Arizona-style immigration law that would discriminate against minorities ...

- [A]bortion restrictions that threaten the constitutional rights of women ...

- [A] ban on adoptions by gay Floridians that the courts have overturned.

- Scott's fiscal promises are just as unworkable. He claims he can dramatically cut taxes and balance the state budget through spending cuts without harming education funding. But the few specifics he's provided, such as slicing the prison budget by 40 percent, suggest unthinkable trade-offs.

Florida lawyers getting rich off the mortgage meltdown

Michael Mayo: "Does this sound familiar? South Florida lawyer from humble origins presides over a rapidly expanding business empire. He spends lavishly along the way, with a fleet of expensive sports cars, million-dollar waterfront properties and yachts, including one named 'Misunderstood.'"

He has a trusted female aide, whom former co-workers say got generous perks, including a luxury car, a home and personal bills paid by the firm.

No, I'm not talking about Scott Rothstein, the attention-seeking Ponzi schemer.

I'm describing David J. Stern, a publicity-evading attorney headquartered in Plantation who has gotten rich from America's mortgage meltdown.

FlaDems keeping powder dry

"Republicans lead early voting in her home county; Democrats lagging statewide". "Poor Turnout Means Trouble for Alex Sink". For discussion on this, check out this front page post at Daily Kos: "FL-Sen: Killing early voting". Meanwhile, in the rest of the nation: "Dems Holding Their Own In Early Voting Numbers".

"Politics was never in the plan," for Gianoulis

"'Politics was never in the plan,' says Deborah Gianoulis, a well-known Jacksonville news anchor and longtime nonprofit board advocate, who is now running against Republican incumbent John Thrasher for Florida’s District 8 Senate seat. 'I spent 25 years in journalism and, especially within the past few years, I’ve been seeing firsthand how unresponsive politicians are to their constituents.' Gianoulis formed her campaign in late June — she qualified just one day before the cutoff date. After the controversy surrounding Senate Bill 6, which would have required that teachers be evaluated and paid based on their students’ test scores, she felt that the lack of consideration for 'what locals have to say' was simply too great, and she threw her hat in the ring." "Political newcomer Gianoulis waging a strong campaign against Republican insider Thrasher".

The boss man won't let him

This ("Decades of working hard for low pay") is all well and good, but why can't Bill Maxwell bring himself to say that this is what collective action is all about, and Florida's farmworkers need to be unionized"

We know why ... the boss man won't let him. C'mon Bill, you can say it: "u-n-i-o-n.

"2001 legislation was an atrocity"

Martin Dyckman remids us that during the "Jeb!" years " — when [now Judge Paul] Hawkes headed the House policy staff — the Legislature gave Gov. Jeb Bush the power to appoint all nine members of each [judicial] nominating commission. The only compromise was to give the Bar [mere] input on four seats, a minority, on each of the commissions. Acting like Republican patronage committees, some of them began nominating people distinguished primarily by their political service. Of the 15 judges on the 1st District bench, four are former aides to Govs. Bush or Charlie Crist, including Hawkes."

The 2001 legislation was an atrocity. But because of term limits, only a few of the perpetrators (or opponents) are still around to be judged by the people.

One of them is Republican U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio. He was in the majority in the 65-50 House vote on March 21, 2001, that foretold the end of an independent judiciary. His present Democratic opponent, Kendrick Meek, voted against the bill in the state Senate. ...

Justices and district appellate judges are subject to "yes" or "no" votes every six years. There have been 329 of these merit retention elections; the closest any judge came to losing one was with 54.9 percent approval in 1978. Because of the furor over his court's "Taj Mahal," Hawkes is in plausible danger of becoming the first. He's on the Nov. 2 ballot, and there's a hard core of 1st District citizens, ranging from 30 percent to 40 percent, who vote "no" every time even without an issue to inflame them. In this instance, there is also a Bar poll in which 53 percent of the lawyers who claim the most familiarity with Hawkes' record opposed his retention. No other judge has ever polled so poorly.

"Mysterious, Democratically aligned PAC"

"Though independent expenditures opposing Republican Steve Southerland outnumber those supporting him by approximately $545,000, he isn’t having any trouble staying ahead of opponent Rep. Allen Boyd. This week, a mysterious, Democratically aligned PAC added to the pile of opposition." "Democratically aligned PAC spends a hefty amount to oppose Southerland".

Hard times

"Hardscrabble past in Miami powers Kendrick Meek".

Lamentations

Jane Healy: "Even though election day is more than a week away, some politicians must already have laments about their candidacies."

Lament No. 1: "Why didn't I just stay put?'' ...

Lament No. 2: ''Why didn't I pay more attention to independents?'' ...

Lament No. 3: "Why didn't I energize the Democrats?"

That would come from any Democrat right now because it is potentially their biggest problem Nov. 2. If reliable Democratic voters sit home rather than flood the polls as they did two years ago, nothing will counter the anger of the independents.

New hope

"New hope for prospective parents as Florida ends gay adoption ban".

The RPOF at work ...

Howard Troxler: "The Bag Awards will be awarded in three levels: gold, silver and bronze. ... First, let's recap the nine issues. One was a Senate-only vote, and one a House-only, so there are eight possible "yes" votes for each legislator:"

• Senate Bill 360, passed in 2009, weakened Florida's growth laws by saying developers no longer have to pay for the impact of their growth on roads in most areas.

• Amendment 7, which the Legislature put on the ballot this year, was a "poison pill" intended to defeat two citizen amendments for "fair districts." The courts threw it out as misleading.

• Senate Bill 2080, passed in 2009, removed from the public process the awarding of permits for water use and environmental destruction.

• House Bill 1207, passed this year, created legal "leadership funds" so that special interests could pay direct, unlimited donations to the incoming leaders of the Legislature. The governor vetoed it.

• Under heavy pressure from the electric industry, the Senate this spring kicked out two members of the Public Service Commission who had dared to turn down $1.5 billion in rate increases. (I'm counting a "yes" vote for senators who voted to kick off either one, or both.)

• With zero study, the House voted on the fly in 2009 for HB 1219, opening Florida waters to oil drilling. Even the Senate balked at that one.

• The Legislature came into a special session in December to pass HB 1B, a sweetheart deal to buy track from the CSX Corp. — and to put the taxpayers on the hook for CSX's legal liability.

• In another last-minute surprise, the Legislature this spring passed HB 1143, requiring any woman seeking an abortion to have an ultrasound and view it, or listen to her doctor describe the fetus. The governor vetoed it.

• This spring the Legislature voted for SB 6, repealing tenure for schoolteachers and tying their evaluations to standardized tests (which were to be invented later). The governor vetoed that one, too.

Teabaggers in a dither

"Over the protests of the insurance industry, state insurance regulators meeting in Orlando today endorsed a proposed federal regulation that would guarantee a certain portion of your health-insurance premium is spent on medical care." "State regulators OK federal guidelines for health insurance".

Down at the club ...

Kingsley Guy and his mates think teachers ought to take it in the shorts, yet again: "Money freeze: Teachers, seniors must accept it".

Expect a Castor walk off

"District 11 race pits Castor against Prendergast".

Six key Florida House seats

"Florida has 25 congressional districts. Republicans, Democrats and outside observers agree that six of those seats - four now held by Democrats, two by the GOP - are the most competitive. Democratic U.S. Reps. Ron Klein of Boca Raton, Alan Grayson of Orlando, Suzanne Kosmas of New Smyrna Beach and Allen Boyd of Monticello are in danger of being ousted by Republican challengers. " "Six Florida House seats could help tip Congressional balance of power in Washington".

FlaStim

"Ten months ago, a stimulus-funded jobs program designed to spark the hiring of low-income citizens filled more than 750 jobs in Brevard County among the 5,500 jobs it generated statewide." "Stimulus jobs program falls short".

Scott's "largely self-funded campaign"

"Campaign finance figures for the week ending Oct. 15, show that Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott spent $3.9 million in his bid to succeed Gov. Charlie Crist. The Naples businessman added another $3.6 million of his personal fortune to his campaign fund, increasing to more than $60 million the money he and his wife have pumped into his largely self-funded campaign." "Rick Scott, Alex Sink campaigns spent $5 million in single week".

The Miami Herald editors:

Mr. Scott, 57, has spent a record $60 million of his own money to promote his candidacy, but the more voters know about him, the more questions there are. He calls himself an outsider whose business savvy will bring efficiency to state government, but it would be a disaster for Florida if he ran the state like he ran Columbia/HCA.

The hospital chain wound up paying $1.7 billion in a massive Medicare fraud scheme that occurred when he was chief executive. He was never charged with wrongdoing, but he walked away with a golden parachute reportedly worth $310 million.

Nurses say "no" to Scott

"Nurses say former hospital exec Rick Scott not best prescription for Florida".

Sink quietly jeered at NAACP forum

"Gubernatorial candidate Alex Sink was quietly jeered at a NAACP candidate forum last week in Miami. It wasn't what the Democrat said or didn't say, said Joy-Ann Reid, a Democratic activist who moderated the event that drew about 1,500 people. It was that she wasn't there." "Are Democrats taking black voters for granted for the midterm elections?".

Ambler, Norman dissed

"Republican officials today nominated former state Rep. Rob Wallace for a disputed state Senate seat, rejecting the competing claims of disqualified candidate Jim Norman and his primary foe, state Rep. Kevin Ambler." "GOP nominates Rob Wallace for disputed state Senate seat".

Cops take on "I got mine" campaign

"Police officers and others rallied in support of Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez, who faces a recall effort." "Dozens rally in support of Miami-Dade mayor".

Florida Political News: Oct. 23, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Sat Oct 23, 2010 at 11:42:28 AM EDT

Will "the she-coon walk just before the light of day''?

Tim Nickens: "The state’s chief financial officer has yet to drive home the same essential point Lawton Chiles made 16 years ago: She is the candidate who knows Florida best and has the proven track record in public office and private business." "Sink still looking for he-coon moment".

Grayson's most formidable opponent

"U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Orlando, put on a one-man show at Friday's Tiger Bay Club congressional debate."

The podium for his opponent, former state Sen. Dan Webster, stood empty – Webster declined the invite -- so Grayson fielded questions from the audience for nearly an hour.

Grayson was mostly at ease, and even coaxed snickers by sprinkling self-deprecating jokes amid his list of accomplishments.

After noting Webster's absence, Grayson deadpanned, "That leaves me to debate my most formidable opponent: That would be me."

Guv race wide open

"Republican Rick Scott narrowly leads Democrat Alex Sink in Florida's too-close-to-call governor's race thanks to enthusiastic conservatives and widespread dissatisfaction with the economy, according to a new St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9 poll."

Scott's 3-percentage-point advantage among likely voters comes at the perfect time: the opening week of early voting, with more Republicans than Democrats headed to the polls. Election Day is Nov. 2.

But besting Sink, the state's chief financial officer, isn't a simple task for Scott, a political newcomer.

Scott's 44-41 lead is well within the poll's 4.1 percent margin of error.

But it's not enough. About a third of independents are undecided — and they're the least likely to vote this election when compared with Republicans and Democrats, the poll shows.

Republicans are the most fired-up voters this year. Three-quarters of registered Republican voters say they're "completely certain'' they will vote, compared to two-thirds of Democrats, who have narrowed the so-called "enthusiasm gap'' in recent months.

By a 15 percentage point margin, Republicans are also more likely than Democrats to say they're paying a "great deal'' of attention to the election. Another problem for Sink: 16 percent of Democrats are voting for Scott, while 10 percent are undecided.

Even Scott's bitter rival in the GOP primary, Attorney General Bill McCollum, has changed his mind. After the August primary, McCollum had refused to back Scott. But late Friday he issued a statement saying Scott was "the better choice for Florida."

"She has work to do," said Julia Clark, pollster for Ipsos Public Affairs. "She needs to solidify her Democratic base, convince the undecideds to swing to her and get more independent votes."

McCollum holds his nose

"McCollum endorses Scott for governor".

Sex with West ... now that's a gruesome visual

"Wasserman, a Democrat from District 20, was written about in a decidedly unflattering manner that questioned her sexual desirability in this month's issue of Wheels on the Road, a South Florida-based publication. That magazine includes among its columnists Allen West, a motorcycle rider who is the GOP candidate in neighboring District 22, where he is trying to unseat Wasserman's Democratic colleague Ron Klein."

Wasserman called the magazine, which regularly features bare-breasted or naked women, "degrading, sexist and misogynistic.'' She did not accuse West of personally writing anything derogatory toward women, but she said his association with the magazine was bad enough.

"He thinks it's OK to objectivize and denigrate women,'' Wasserman told the crowd of several dozen supporters. She said such depictions can stir violence against women and called on West to condemn the publication.

West has responded that he sends to the magazine the same column -- called Washingtoons -- that he e-mails regularly to all interested parties. He has said he has no other connection to the publication and the rest of its content and that his only motive in supplying the column is trying to get his conservative message out.

Fla Bar credit for voter suppression training?

TPM: "We've been telling you a lot about the Republican National Lawyers Association and the election law seminars they hold throughout the country. We had an idea of what the seminars were about, pieced together from who the featured speakers were. But now we have a much, much better idea."

Thanks to the Florida Bar, TPMMuckraker took a look at the agenda for an election law seminar put on by the RNLA on Sept. 10 at a Disney resort. The agenda, which is part of the RNLA's application to have the seminar count for Continuing Legal Education credit for attending lawyers, includes bios of all the speakers, and a list of the lessons given.

You can take a look at the whole thing here.

The sessions, not surprisingly, focus a lot on Election Day activities: poll-watching, electioneering, voting machine problems, provisional ballots and Election Day litigation. ...

At the Florida event, two speakers who were outwardly political were Rick Scott, the former hospital mogul and current candidate for governor, and Pam Bondi, candidate for attorney general. They aren't included on the agenda because their speeches didn't count as part of the continuing education. As one speaker who spoke about Election Day law, Sarah Rumpf, pointed out on her blog, the two were at the hotel because the Republican Party of Florida's quarterly meeting was being held there the same weekend.

As for the educational speakers at the Florida event, they included ...

The historical norm

"More Republicans have voted early or by absentee than Democrats so far this year -- a lead that has some in the GOP crowing, but Democrats arguing it reflects historical norms for this point in the election cycle."

Data provided by the Democrats show that the GOP led by a similar margin in total ballots cast at this point in the 2006 election, when then-Republican Charlie Crist won the governor's race but Sink won her current office of chief financial officer. Even in 2008, when Democrats were rallying behind Barack Obama in the presidential race, Republicans held a slim lead in total ballots cast at this point.

Can Rubio see Cuba from Florida?*

Palin and Rubio together at last: "Palin is the main attraction at the 2010 Victory Fundraising Rally in Orlando Saturday. Also joining her is Republican National Committee chairman Michael Steele, Republican U.S. Sen. George LeMieux and GOP Senate candidate Marco Rubio." "Palin rallies Republicans in Fla.". See also "Palin rallies Republicans in Florida".

- - - - - - - -
*Palin famously suggested she had "insight into Russian actions" viz. the Georgia conflict because "you can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska".

Easy call

"In the heart of North Florida prison country, where corrections jobs are handed down like a birthright and mistrust of government runs high, picking a governor has become more complicated than marking Democrat or Republican." "Corrections workers weigh gubernatorial candidates".

Miller time?

"If the Nov. 2 elections give Republicans control of the House as expected, Rep. Jeff Miller could become chairman of the committee that oversees issues vital to veterans living in Florida's Panhandle." "Election could hand Miller vets panel".

Haridopolos' delusions of grandeur

"Senate President Mike Haridopolos is talking with senators about the possibility of overriding some of Gov. Charlie Crist’s 18 vetoes from this year during the coming organizational session, raising the possibility of the first veto reversals in more than a decade." "Senate Talking Veto Overrides".

Crist Continues Attacks on Rubio

"Charlie Crist Continues Attacks Against Marco Rubio". Related: "Meek's Debate Plan: Hit Rubio, Not Crist".

Questions about their motives

"One particularly heated debate during the current election is the battle over Amendments 5 and 6, which, if passed, would create stricter rules for legislators to follow while redrawing state districts."

Protect Your Vote, a political action committee founded in order to campaign against the amendments, argues that 5 and 6 would make redistricting a long and costly process and would result in a decrease in minority representation in Congress and the Florida legislature.

But a look at the leadership behind Protect Your Vote raises questions about the organization’s motives.

She grew up on on a farm

"Alex Sink"

quickly identifies the bulldog mascot on Wanda Kemp's denim shirt and asks about the Friday night high school game.

"Who y'all playing?" Sink asks. "I hear you're undefeated."

In a state politically dominated by the cities and suburbs along Interstate 4, Sink often struggles to deliver the snappy sound bites favored by newscasts in Florida's major media markets.

But in the conservative belt of rural North Florida, home to about 20 percent of the state's voters, Sink is affable and seems at ease slapping backs, shaking hands and selling her Democratic campaign for governor.

"I grew up on a tobacco farm," she said in Perry. "Tobacco, cows, hogs — whatever my daddy could make money at. Year by year, it was a big decision."

RPOFers looking to sweep Cabinet

"Republicans appear headed for a clean sweep of all seats on the Florida Cabinet, according to a new statewide poll of likely voters. The survey for the St. Petersburg Times, Miami Herald, Bay News 9 and Central Florida News 13 [of 801 registered voters, including 577 likely voters, was conducted Oct. 15-19 by Ipsos with an MOE of 4.1%] shows Republicans with wide leads in races for attorney general, chief financial officer and agriculture commissioner, though a significant chunk of voters remain undecided." "Republicans poised to win Fla. Cabinet posts, poll shows".

And then there's Rick

"Young Rick Scott recalled as driven, frugal, studious, focused". See also "Rick Scott's austerity plan for state government may be tough sell in North Florida".

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "An estimated 300,000 Florida homes sit empty, and the state is in the midst of a foreclosure crisis. Yet Republican candidate for governor Rick Scott wants to make it easier to build new homes. That may sound good to developers or unemployed construction workers on the campaign trail. But the strategy would only exacerbate falling property values and hurt our long-term quality of life." "Scott's bad plan on growth".

Up one year ...

Beth Reinhard: "Political careers: Up one year, down the next".

King Cannon

"The Legislature's new presiding officers are wasting no time making their presence felt."

Like every Florida Republican, incoming House Speaker Dean Cannon has blasted the federal health-care overhaul bill that could pass along additional costs and mandates to the states. Now, it sounds like he could be trying to do something more than talk about it.

The Winter Park Republican has sent out a memo criticizing Gov. Charlie Crist's executive branch stewardship as the state starts phasing in portions of the health-care reform that task state agencies with enforcing federal mandates. He notes that that Attorney General Bill McCollum's office is challenging the law in court.

Cannon adds that he's concerned about state agencies acting without the Florida Legislature's "clear and comprehensive guidance." He wants agencies to disabuse themselves of the constitutional separation of powers and – basically -- start reporting to him.

Scott bids $60M

"Scott's personal spending on Fla. gov race tops $60 million, inluding $3.6 in last filing period".

"Distinct approaches"

"Maddox and Putnam offer distinct approaches to Agriculture Commissioner job".

Who owns Florida?

"The Florida Medical Association ($670,000), a nursing home group ($390,000), the phosphate industry ($444,000), credit unions ($347,500) and Florida Realtors ($311,000) have combined to give the Republican Party of Florida more than $2.1 million this year. The Florida Chamber of Commerce poured another $100,000 into Scott's electioneering committee this month, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield gave another $100,000." "Gubernatorial candidates get big bucks from different donors".

Will Scott disavow this endorsement?

"A Florida organization 'advocating immigration enforcement' with ties to a nationwide anti-immigrant group flagged by the Southern Poverty Law Center is endorsing Rick Scott for governor. ... Here is how the Southern Poverty Law Center characterizes FAIR:"

Founded in 1978 by John H. Tanton, the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) is one of the country’s best-established anti-immigration groups.

...

Tanton remains on FAIR’s board and also is the publisher of The Social Contract Press, which sells racist anti-immigrant tracts.

Dan Stein, the group’s executive director, has warned that certain immigrant groups are engaged in “competitive breeding” aimed at diminishing white power. Rick Oltman, FAIR’s western representative, has spoken before and worked with the racist Council of Conservative Citizens.

Garrett Hardin, a FAIR board member, has argued that aiding starving Africans is counterproductive and will only “encourage population growth.” Overall, FAIR blames immigrants for crime, poverty, disease, urban sprawl and increasing racial tensions in America, and calls for a drastic cut in the numbers of those allowed in.

Haridopolos asserts himself

"Incoming Senate president says lawmakers could vote to override vetoes." "Haridopolos says there is a strong chance for a November special session".

Shovel ready

"High speed rail projects set to roll".

Truth be told

"When former Florida Public Service Commission chairwoman Nancy Argenziano resigned last week to make political endorsements, she delivered a stinging -- yet familiar -- criticism of the panel: That it is a revolving door with the utilities it regulates." "Analysis of Florida Public Service Commission shows truth in criticism".

HD 61

"State Rep. Will Weatherford responded to a question about harmony in his neighborhood with a joke: 'Nobody has shot me with a BB gun yet as I've been driving through, so that's good.' A Republican seeking to retain the state House District 61 seat he won in 2006, Weatherford was addressing the climate in Brookside, the small, upscale neighborhood where he lives near Democratic rival and political neophyte Elena McCullough." "Neighbors square off in race".

It ain't me

"With less than two weeks to go until the general election, Florida’s unemployment continues to grow -- and the politicians are attempting to point the blame at their opponents." "Florida's Unemployment Rate Rises, Shaking Up Political Landscape".

Big of him

"Bill McCollum drops gay adoption case, so Florida's ban is no more". See also "Florida Attorney General McCollum won't appeal gay adoption ruling".

RPOFers set to re-appoint Norman

"Many Republicans are worried about the adverse publicity stirred up by the Ambler lawsuit and an ongoing FBI investigation of the Hughes' gift. At least one witness is scheduled to appear before a federal grand jury next week looking into the case." "GOP meeting today to replace Norman".

CD 25

"Conventional wisdom has it that little connects the people of the 25th Congressional District, a mammoth and unwieldy, gerrymandered region spanning three counties and 13 cities. It is simultaneously suburban and rural, industrial and agricultural, Republican and Democratic. But this year, politically disenchanted voters collectively worry about one issue: the economy. So it would appear the race for the vacant congressional seat would remain in the political hands of Republicans on Nov. 2. Yet the 25th, with its wealth of independents, still defies easy labeling, making it a closely watched swing district in the country's largest swing state -- and a key target for both parties aiming to control the U.S. House." "Diverse district reflects disenchantment".

Florida Political News: Oct. 22, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Fri Oct 22, 2010 at 10:21:35 AM EDT

Rubio's "questionable spending and sloppy accounting"

Alex Leary and Adam C. Smith: "For a candidate promising to put America's fiscal house in order, Marco Rubio has a tough time keeping his own house tidy, plagued by questionable spending and sloppy accounting."

Florida's likely next U.S. senator has cut a complicated financial profile since he burst on the political scene more than a decade ago, fresh from law school. ...

As Rubio climbed the ranks, he began to use little-noticed political committees to fund his travel and other expenses and later had a Republican Party of Florida credit card.

What emerged, records show, is a pattern of blending personal and political spending. Over and over again Rubio proved sloppy, at best, in complying with disclosure requirements.

• He landed an unadvertised $69,000 teaching job at Florida International University when the school was slashing staff because of budget cuts. (His salary came out of privately raised funds.)

• Also in 2008, he got a job as a political analyst for the Spanish-language TV station Univision, which paid a second dividend: keeping his image in circulation as he pondered his next run for office.

• In June 2008, Rubio formed two businesses, his own law firm and Rubio Consulting, whose clients included Univision and Marin & Sons, a Miami consulting firm headed by a Tallahassee lobbyist. On his financial disclosure form, Rubio wrote "Marin & Sons retains Rubio Consulting to introduce their clients to potential business partners in the community. Rubio Consulting does not lobby before any governmental entity."

• He joined another consulting partnership called Florida Strategic Consultants that scored big contracts with Miami Children's and Jackson Memorial hospitals. Rubio said he was providing advice and access to a network of contacts he culled as House speaker. "I'm not a lobbyist," he insisted then. "It's not my forte."

RPOFers gettin' desperate

"A forged e-mail that attempts to show Democrat Alex Sink was linked to a 'pay to play' scheme with convicted Ponzi schemer Scott Rothstein has emerged in the highly-contested governor's race." "Forged e-mail is circulated anonymously in apparent attempt to taint Alex Sink".

West and Rubio for sale

"Out of a total of 345 contributions between Sept. 1 and Oct. 13, just five donors contributed 88 percent of the funds to American Crossroads, a “super PAC” affiliated with former Bush White House Senior Adviser Karl Rove and former Republican National Committee Chair Ed Gillespie. Crossroads raised $14,778,673 in September and the first two weeks of October, according to Federal Elections Commission reports filed Wednesday. Five donors contributed $13 million of that."

At least some of that money is ending up in Florida, where the group is running ads supporting Marco Rubio’s candidacy for U.S. Senate and opposing the reelection of Rep. Ron Klein, D-Fort Lauderdale, with the claim that he supports “rationing” health care.

Will South rise again?

"A funeral director may finally succeed in laying to rest Congressman Allen Boyd's political career, something several Republicans have never come close to accomplishing against the conservative 'Blue Dog' Democrat. Political newcomer Steve Southerland is benefiting from nationwide tea party enthusiasm for the GOP, an influx of negative advertising against Boyd by outside groups and discontent within the conservative 2nd Congressional District over the incumbent's support of President Barack Obama's economic stimulus plan and health care overhaul." "GOP funeral director wants to bury Fla. Rep. Boyd". See also "Democratically aligned PAC spends a hefty amount to oppose Southerland".

"Meek not mincing words"

"Rep. Kendrick Meek, D-Miami, is not mincing words when discussing his opponents in the highly publicized race for U.S. Senate." "Meek on Rubio and Crist: ‘We are dealing with spiritual wickedness in high places’".

Rivera's chickens coming home to roost?

"Allies of Democratic congressional candidate Joe Garcia filed a lawsuit Thursday seeking to kick GOP candidate David Rivera off the Nov. 2 ballot for filing misleading financial disclosure forms as a state lawmaker. The suit, filed in Miami-Dade Circuit Court, says Rivera should be disqualified from running for office for violating state laws requiring public officials and candidates to file full and complete financial disclosure forms." "Democratic donor seeks to disqualify David Rivera from congressional ballot".

More Haridopolos hypocrisy

"Senate President-to-be Mike Haridopolos' new staffers — from top, former Department of Agriculture employees Terry Rhodes and Craig Meyer; and former clerk of the Florida House, John Phelps — will be earning six-figure salaries and collecting a state pension."

Scopes spinning in his grave

Kosmas challenger, RPOFer "Sandy Adams dismisses evolution in favor of 'the biblical teachings'" ("As a state legislator in 2008, Adams helped the Florida House pass 71-43 a measure that would have given public school teachers more room to question evolution.")

Wingnuts coming outs the woodwork

"Conservative icon Phyllis Schlafly and the Eagle Forum PAC have endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott, in the hope that he can 'keep this state prosperous.'" "Conservative Favorite Phyllis Schlafly Backs Rick Scott".

Florida sliding into the sewer?

"Republican Allen West narrowly leads U.S. Rep. Ron Klein in a bruising battle for South Florida's 22nd Congressional District, a new Sunshine State News Poll shows." "West Winning Wild CD 22 Race, Poll Shows".

Puffing Rick

"Republican seeks to transform government with his business experience". "Gov. Rick Scott: An Outsider Tries to Tame Tallahassee". Meanwhile, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune warns about "The risk of choosing Scott".

Entrepreneurs in action

"SoFla health care operators charged in $200 million Medicare fraud case".

Rubio likes Dem idea

"The three candidates for the U.S. Senate from Florida agree that Social Security recipients should get a $250 bonus to make up for a lack of cost of living increases. Democrats are proposing the idea, which failed in the Senate this year when 12 Democrats and an independent sided with Republicans against it." "Florida Senate hopefuls support Social Security bonus".

"Rubio didn't attend the event, but later said he supports the bonus as long as it doesn't add to the federal debt." "Fla. Senate hopefuls support Social Security bonus".

Palin's wingnut crew

"Among those scheduled to attend the 3 p.m. rally at the Orlando World Center Marriott are Palin, a Tea Party favorite and soon-to-be TLC reality show star; Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele; U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio; U.S. Sen. George LeMieux; and Jeff Atwater and Adam Putnam, candidates for chief financial officer candidate and agriculture commissioner respectively." "Pam Bondi won't rally with Sarah Palin". Related: "Tea Party dredges up pain of segregation".

Bits and Pieces

Kevin Derby's "Political Bits and Pieces".

We'll go with the "4.0 math major at Wake Forest"

"Rick Scott says he's running against a woman for governor in Alex Sink who is lock-step in line with the policies of President Barack Obama, and has become fluent in what Scott calls 'Obama math.'"

"I don't know what 'Obama math' is," Sink said. "What I do know, I was a 4.0 math major at Wake Forest University and I do know how to add numbers."

Get ready, Florida

"Eyewitnesses Report Intimidation By Texas Poll Watchers".

"Dead even"

"Locked in a furious electoral fight to the finish, Republican Rick Scott and Democrat Alex Sink have pulled dead even in the race for Florida's governorship, a new Sunshine State News Poll shows." "Poll: Scott and Sink Locked in Dead Heat".

"Lies, innuendo and prevarication"

Daniel Ruth writes about "television's answer to a Dante's media inferno of lies, innuendo and prevarication." "Will someone please make it stop ringing?".

"LeMieux's Screw-Up"

Nancy Smith: "Martin County Still Remembers George LeMieux's Screw-Up".

"Rubio isn't burning any bridges "

"With a 20-point lead in the latest Sunshine State News Poll, Republican Marco Rubio isn't burning any bridges on his way to the U.S. Senate. Rubio, speaking to reporters after a campaign appearance in Port St. Lucie Thursday, tried to steer clear of the brewing conflict between Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and fire-breathing conservative Jim DeMint of South Carolina." "Marco Rubio Steers Careful Course Between Mitch McConnell, Jim DeMint".

Wingers at TaxWatch ...

... surprise no one: "Tax group calls development control proposal too expensive for state". See also "Florida TaxWatch Report: Amendment 4 Would Gut State’s Economy", "Early Turnout Favoring GOP" and "Study: Amendment 4 would hurt recovery".

Maitland housewives* hit the polls

"Republicans across Florida have mounted an early lead in returning absentee ballots [as they always do] and are showing up in greater numbers than Democrats since early voting began Monday." "As early voting opens, GOP has an edge in turnout".

- - - - - - - - - -
*A "Maitland housewife" is impolite slang for a wealthy individual who stays home, plays tennis, and is always first in line to vote for the first RPOFer in sight.

USF straw poll

"If it were up to University of South Florida students, Democrat Alex Sink would be Florida's next governor. They are evenly split, though, among the three candidates in the U.S. Senate race. More than 1,500 students participated in the straw poll on campus Thursday, three days before a nationally televised debate at USF among the senate candidates: Independent Charlie Crist, Republican Marco Rubio and Democrat Kendrick Meek." "USF voters go for Democrat Sink but lean right otherwise in straw poll".

Atwater afraid to debate

"Ausley says GOP opponent in CFO race afraid of debate".

In case 'ya didn't know ...

... the The Orlando Sentinel thinks Taliban Dan is fabulous: "Penny-pinching Webster eyes Congress".

My wife, not me

"There is no valid evidence that Jim Norman was a party to a $500,000 investment venture between his wife and his political benefactor, Norman's lawyers argued in a written brief to a state appeals court Thursday." "Norman appeal: No proof that Hughes' $500,000 went to him".

Decision time for Charlie

"Independent candidate Charlie Crist is running low on cash for the final stretch of the Senate race." "Crist behind in polls and also in cash".

Clinton and Sink

"In his third stop at a Florida college campus in as many days, former President Bill Clinton on Thursday rallied about 600 voters at Miami Dade College." "Clinton campaigns for Sink". See also "Bill Clinton campaigns with Sink in Miami". See also "Bill Clinton rallies Miami students to support Alex Sink for governor".

"Sore Loser" provision

"Lawmakers could look at changes next year to make it more difficult for political candidates to switch parties mid-campaign, a proposal directly in response to Gov. Charlie Crist's defection from the Republican Party this past year." "Charlie Crist's switch to independent may change campaign laws".

Florida Political News: Oct. 21, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Thu Oct 21, 2010 at 10:01:09 AM EDT

Newsmax hypocrites endorse Scott

It has got to be one or the other, right?

"Either [Rick Scott] was incompetent and knew nothing of the massive fraud under way at his own company, or he was indeed complicit in the crime. Either way, he should be disqualified from being governor of the state of Florida."

Those were the words written in an Aug. 9 editorial by the conservative West Palm Beach-based news organization Newsmax when it endorsed Rick Scott’s Republican primary opponent, Attorney General Bill McCollum. On Oct. 12, Newsmax donated $100,000 to a 527 group solely associated with Scott, Let’s Get to Work, according to donor disclosures released Wednesday.

On Oct. 12, Newsmax donated $100,000 to a 527 group solely associated with Scott, Let’s Get to Work, according to donor disclosures released Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Newsmax endorsed Scott with no mention of the Medicare and Medicaid fraud committed at Columbia/HCA when Scott was the company’s CEO. The editorial lists fraud perpetrated at NationsBank (now Bank of America) when Alex Sink — the Democratic nominee in the gubernatorial race — was an executive there as a reason not to vote for her, even though the lawyer prosecuting the case said she played no role in the impropriety. "Be sure to vote and be sure to vote for the future of conservative values nationally by voting for Rick Scott," wrote Newsmax in the Oct. 19 editorial.

Rubio, Rivera ... two peas in a pod

"U.S. Senate front-runner Marco Rubio co-owns a home with congressional candidate David Rivera, who is fending off allegations that he falsely reported income on campaign finance forms." "Rubio helps ally to stump for votes".

Meanwhile, Fred Grimm: writes that in Florida these days, "dodgy disclosures might mean something": that"David Rivera still can't seem to remember his employers over these last few years. But Rivera's onetime claim to have worked for USAID magically disappeared from his amended disclosure form this week after the Miami Herald reported that the agency had no records of a relationship with Rivera. Good timing, David. Suddenly, dodgy disclosures might mean something." Related: Steve Otto: "Stormin' over Norman".

Scott "unable to go beyond the shallow answers"

"The leading candidates for governor spent most of Wednesday's hour-long, televised debate bashing their rival's platforms, experience and character in an effort to break the logjam that remains with less than two weeks to Election Day. " "Mud and fur fly in debate".

William March: "Alex Sink and Rick Scott raced to draw first blood in their first statewide debate Wednesday, teasing out a few policy differences but largely highlighting themes of the attack ads that both gubernatorial candidates have running since the August primary." "Scott, Sink tangle over ethics, experience in statewide debate". See also "Gloves come off again as Alex Sink and Rick Scott face off in debate" and "Sink, Scott outline economic plans, spar over business ties in 2nd debate".

The Saint Petersburg Times editors: "Rick Scott has spent months carefully shaping his image in television ads and other controlled settings. But the Republican candidate for governor demonstrated Wednesday night that he remains unwilling or unable to go beyond the shallow answers about his controversial business background, raising further concerns about how transparent and candid he would be as governor of the Sunshine State." "Evasions, public office don't fit".

Scott ahead in poll

"The latest CNN/Time Opinion Research Corporation poll shows a tight race for governor in Florida, with Republican Rick Scott receiving 49 percent of the vote and Democrat Alex Sink with 46 percent. Scott's modest lead is one point greater than the same survey found in late September. ... The winning margins held by Rubio and Scott both shrink if the poll measures registered instead of likely voters." "CNN poll: Scott 49%, Sink 46%".

Scott's "Pants on Fire"

"PolitiFact: Despite claim, Scott is tied to lots of lobbyists"

That's Charlie

"Crist says he relishes underdog role in Senate run".

"Hawkes still doesn’t get it"

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "Judge Paul Hawkes still doesn’t get it. The chief judge of the 1st District Court of Appeal in Tallahassee says he is 'surprised and discouraged' by the firestorm over the $48 million 'Taj Mahal.' " "Chief judge still doesn't get it".

Teabagger files charge

"A South Florida tea party member alleged in an ethics complaint Wednesday that Democratic state Senate candidate and insurance agent Kevin Rader failed to indicate his ownership interest in an underwriters group on required financial disclosure forms." "Woman files complaint accusing Rader of not disclosing interest in insurance group".

Clinton in the house

"Still trying to unify Democrats around his sluggish campaign, U.S. Senate candidate Kendrick Meek got help Tuesday from one of his party's biggest stars, former President Bill Clinton." "Bill Clinton stumps for Meek in St. Petersburg".

More: "Clinton stumps for Meek in Orlando, heads to Miami to campaign with Sink" and "Bill Clinton tells UCF crowd: Support Kendrick Meek".

Webster afraid to debate

"Dan Webster made it official Wednesday: His campaign for Orlando's U.S. House seat won't include a debate with incumbent Democrat Rep. Alan Grayson. ... His reason: He can't stand to share a stage with Grayson." "Webster refuses to debate Grayson".

Scott supports open carrying of handguns

Mike Thomas: "Open carry means just that. Any law-abiding citizen is allowed to openly carry a handgun. Advocates are pushing for legislation allowing it and are armed with a statement of support from Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott."

Teabaggers on the march

"Tea Partiers: Voter Intimidation Claims Come From 'Operatives'".

"What leadership is all about"

Alan Grayson:

"I draw the line in the same place where Patrick Henry drew the line: Give me liberty or give me death. Making stirring statements like that — it's what leadership is all about. It's articulating the things that everyone believes but no one is saying."

"Unscrupulous lending practices"

The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "For a short-timer, Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum has a lot on his plate, particularly when it comes to residential and commercial foreclosures. News of unscrupulous lending practices, coupled with the examination of those practices by lenders, resonates in a state that relies so heavily on real estate for growth and jobs." "Florida's foray into the foreclosure crisis".

Obama goes after important voting bloc

"President Barack Obama reached out to Hispanics, signing an order aimed at improving education -- and possibly swaying an important voting bloc." "Education initiative has eye on Latino vote".

Hill rallies students

"Concerned that momentum could be lost after a record turnout among African-American voters in 2008, state Sen. Tony Hill and others hit the road this week to convince students on college campuses -- no matter their race -- to get out and vote. Hill, D-Jacksonville, visited the Bethune-Cookman University campus Wednesday morning, one of seven campuses he'll stop at this week, to help rally students as they prepared to march to an early voting precinct." "Campaign works to keep hope from 2008 alive".

Too much for judges?

"What's good enough for lawmakers is apparently too much for judges." "Criticized DCA photographs same as those lawmakers have".

Rubio maintains lead

CCN poll (.pdf) "Marco Rubio (R) 46%, Charlie Crist (I) 32%, Kendrick Meek (D) 20%".

Class size

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board: "Vote 'yes' on schools' critical needs levy".

Beware "the Big Government Liberal Agenda"

Howard Troxler:

I am looking at one of those campaign-mail thingys that says, "Ready to bring BARACK OBAMA'S big government, liberal agenda to Pinellas County"? There is a big, scary picture of the president on it.

And I am thinking, my goodness! I had no idea that we were in such danger of getting Barack Obama's Big Government Liberal Agenda right here in Pinellas County. So I am glad to be warned of it.

The idea of the mailer is that voters should vote against Bob Hackworth, a Democrat running for the County Commission, and in favor of Susan Latvala, the Republican incumbent. Apparently the thing to do in a campaign these days is mention the O-word. Maybe the Democrats should try it, too.

As it happens, I had just been thinking, "We should keep letting developers run amok and the bureaucracy stay status quo by voting for all the incumbents, Democrat and Republican." So this only sealed my intention. Because, you know, otherwise we would have the Big Government Liberal Agenda.

Debate weekend

"CNN and the St. Petersburg Times are partnering with the University of South Florida to present live, nationally televised debates between the candidates for U.S. Senate and governor this weekend."

On Sunday at USF, no-party candidate Charlie Crist, Democrat Kendrick Meek and Republican Marco Rubio will debate at 9 a.m. on the CNN news program State of the Union. CNN chief political correspondent Candy Crowley will serve as moderator, along with Times political editor Adam C. Smith.

On Monday at USF, Republican Rick Scott and Democrat Alex Sink will debate at 7 p.m. on the CNN program John King USA. King, the cable network's chief national correspondent, will moderate along with the Times' Smith.

The next time you speak with a teabagger ...

... ask him what he thinks about this: "JASON LINKINS Glenn Beck Calls Evolution 'Ridiculous': 'I Haven't Seen A Half-Monkey, Half-Person Yet'".

Is that has been still around?

"Rock star Nugent signs Sheriff Nugent's T-shirt".

Bondi - Gelber

"Republican attorney general nominee Pam Bondi is trying to nationalize the campaign, pushing GOP talking points about the dismal economy, the Obama administration and particularly her opposition to the health care overhaul bill it pushed through Congress earlier this year. Democratic opponent candidate Dan Gelber, a veteran state legislator, is trying to keep the race on Florida issues as the Nov. 2 election approaches, such as cracking down on government corruption and on clinics that illegally dispense prescription pain pills." "Bondi, Gelber differ on focus in Fla. AG race".

Ahem...'Afghan Negotiations Progress?'

by: Robert McKnight

Wed Oct 20, 2010 at 10:24:19 AM EDT

From FLA Politics on October 12, 2010, "The Time to Turn Up The Sound," came suggestions that surprise, possible election turning events, are sometimes made during the last 2 weeks of an election.

As of October 20, 2010, rumored reports by various wire services, 'Negotiations were underway for a possible resolution of the Afghan fighting among the Afghans and the Taliban.'

Head's Up.

Florida Political News: Oct. 20, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Wed Oct 20, 2010 at 08:32:56 AM EDT

West campaign continues to implode

"Republican House candidate Allen West, who is challenging second-term Rep. Ron Klein (D-FL), has in the past exhibited a stern approach to Democratic Party trackers. And now at a recent event, West directed a Dem tracker to leave, which got the crowd cheering -- and more importantly, some leather-clad security men ejecting the guy, too."

West has recently come under scrutiny for his campaign's ties to a criminal biker gang. It's not clear whether the leather-clad security men who escorted the tracker away were themselves in any way connected to the "Outlaws" biker bang -- the West campaign has described them as Vietnam veterans, "not thugs." ...

After all, West built his conservative political career on a particular event from his own military career -- when he tortured an Iraqi policeman, and was proud of it.

Rubio tagged as "extreme right-winger"

"Crist, who is running without party affiliation, called the Republican nominee an 'extreme right wing candidate' who would try to outlaw abortion, punish public schoolteachers and shear Social Security benefits. And for the first time, Crist accused Rubio of changing his position on insurance legislation when he was House speaker after selling his West Miami home 'for cash' to a chiropractor who was lobbying him." "Crist tags Rubio as 'extreme right-wing,' fends off opportunist charge in Senate debate".

"Major candidates for Florida's open U.S. Senate seat clashed in a live televised debate at Nova Southeastern University in Davie." "Marco Rubio fends off attacks from Charlie Crist in U.S. Senate debate" ("the fourth of six debates for the three major Senate candidates came to end without any major gaffes")

See also "Senate candidates use debate to sway constituencies", "Senate candidates Crist, Rubio and Meek face off in debate", "Gloves Come Off in U.S. Senate Debate", "Senate candidates sharpen their attacks in fourth debate" and "Senate candidates Crist, Rubio and Meek face off in debate".

Uphill campaign for CD 13 challenger

"Buchanan eclipsing Golden in district race?".

RPOFers spreading misinformation

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "Republicans apparently figure if they spread enough misinformation about the federal stimulus money that staved off an economic meltdown, voters will believe it. In a statewide debate Tuesday night, U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio once again contended the stimulus has been an abject failure. And once again, Gov. Charlie Crist, the independent candidate, and U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, the Democrat, were correct to defend the federal spending as necessary to avert economic disaster — because the facts are on their side." "Demonizing the stimulus".

A little bit 'o related hypocrisy: "Stimulus opponent Crenshaw 'lettermarked' grants for several pet projects".

She's Driven

"While some voters may just now be learning about the 62-year-old Sink, she was plenty influential and politically well-connected in Florida long before her first run for public office four years ago. As one of the state's top businesswomen in the 1990s, she and McBride - then the managing partner of the prestigious Holland & Knight law firm - were one of Florida's premier power couples. They were - and are - rich, respected and generous with their time and influence. Sink even contemplated a U.S. Senate at one point, and in 1998 turned down an offer to be Democrat Buddy MacKay's running mate when he opposed Bush for governor." "Driven Sink says she can fix Fla.'s economy".

Atwater: never mind the failed bank

"Atwater, the Senate president from North Palm Beach, downplays the six years he spent with Riverside National Bank, a Treasure Coast bank taken over by federal regulators this spring." "Jeff Atwater downplays role at failed bank".

Meanwhile, "Poll: Atwater Leads Ausley in Feisty CFO Race".

Sansom fails to get off on technicality

"A judge on Tuesday faulted a state attorney's behavior in the case against ousted House Speaker Ray Sansom but said it did not amount to prosecutorial misconduct and declined to dismiss the charges." "Judge lets grand theft charge stand against former House Speaker Ray Sansom".

"Bikergate"

"Call it 'Bikergate,' The campaign of U.S. Rep. Ron Klein and the Florida Democratic Party on Tuesday once again raised the question of his District 22 GOP challenger Allen West's support from local motorcycle clubs and accused members of those clubs of 'thuggish behavior.'" "Ron Klein accuses Allen West of thuggery for ousting camera man".

Cannon's delusions of teabaggery

"Incoming House Speaker Dean Cannon sent Gov. Charlie Crist a letter Tuesday telling him to back off implementation of the federal health care law unless state lawmakers give him the go-ahead."

Cannon, R-Orlando, accused Crist of "commandeering of state insurance regulatory resources" by allowing executive agencies to begin implementing the federal law even as State Attorney General Bill McCollum, a Republican, is challenging the law in federal court.

Cannon was especially critical of the Office of Insurance Regulation, which is overseen by Crist and the Florida Cabinet, because it has started developing data systems necessary to enforce the law.

Both Crist's and OIR Commissioner Kevin McCarty's offices said they were reviewing Cannon's letter.

Cannon's letter gave Crist until Nov. 15 to provide him an accounting of all state agencies' activities related to implementing the law and said Crist will need the legislature's approval before taking any further action.

Kevin Wagner, a Florida Atlantic University political science professor, said Crist and the Cabinet as the executive branch of government are under no obligation to obey Cannon's legislative orders.

How the mighty fall

"Powerbrokers to Felons".

Ferre ends Dem career as a whiner

"Ferre offered harsh words about the leadership of his party and said his treatment by the Democratic establishment during the Senate campaign contributed to his decision to back Scott." "Democrat Maurice Ferre Backs Rick Scott for Governor".

Weak bench

"Possible Presidential Candidate Tim Pawlenty Hits Florida".

RPOFers planning to re-nominate Norman?

"The judge who disqualified Jim Norman from a state Senate race last week issued a ruling Tuesday that will allow local Republican officials to choose a new nominee for the contest."

But the nominee may not be new at all. Republican officials from Hillsborough and Pasco counties have not ruled out re-nominating Norman, a Hillsborough County commissioner.

Finally right

The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "After 33 years, Florida finally gets it right on gay adoption".

Times have changed

"Four years ago, Charlie Crist's smile beamed from a 70-foot-tall banner on the side of a Tampa office building. He could snub a visit from President Bush. He flew around the state, rallying with Rudy Giuliani and John McCain."

This weekend, it was his Republican rival for U.S. Senate, Marco Rubio, hosting Giuliani and big crowds, while the no-party governor dropped in on street festivals and greeted fans at a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game.

'Ya reckon?

"Redistricting amendments pit Democrats vs. Republicans".

Will Adams, other RPOFers reject wingnut endorsement?

"Elise Foley at our [the Florida Independent's] sister site The Washington Independent is reporting on allegations by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee that Americans for Legal Immigration has 'white supremacist, anti-Semitic and neo-Nazi ties,' a claim the organization vigorously denies."

The group has endorsed numerous congressional candidates in Florida: Republican challengers Mike Yost, Dennis Ross, Karen Harrington, Allen West, Bernard Sansaricq and Sandy Adams, and incumbent Republican Reps. Cliff Stearns, John Mica, Gus Bilirakis, Vern Buchanan, Bill Posey and Tom Rooney.

"Swing state instincts have kicked in"

"Six months ago, Alex Sink’s gubernatorial prospects looked to be floundering. She had shed top staff, including her campaign manager and finance director ,and Attorney General Bill McCollum seemed to be laying the groundwork for an easier than expected path to victory to the governor’s mansion. Then, Florida’s swing state instincts kicked in and turned the race on its head." "Five most competitive races for governor".

Scott can't run, he can't hide

"Republican Scott and Democrat Sink will meet Wednesday night in a forum at Nova Southeastern University near Fort Lauderdale that will be televised statewide." "Scott, Sink set to debate again" ("The two are scheduled to meet for one more debate on Monday night in Tampa.") See also "Sink and Scott set to collide on TV".

Drilling an issue in HD 7

"A Republican charge in 2009 to open up state waters to offshore drilling, and the subsequent Deepwater Horizon disaster, are spilling over into the race for House District 7." "Drilling proposal a factor in House District 7 race".

Jebbie a "rumored presidential candidate"

"Jeb!"

told the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce Monday night that America can turn itself around with leaders advancing big ideas like education reform, rolling back the size of government and rewarding success in business.

"We need leadership that paints in bold colors, no more pastels," Bush said. ”Maybe like Boise State’s football field."

Bush began his talk with what he wryly called a confession: "I believe in entrepreneurial capitalism* from the end of my toes to the top of my head."

But he told a Louisville TV station after a July event for GOP Senate nominee Rand Paul, "I am not running for president."

Prodded at the close of his 30-minute speech by chamber Chairman Dave Terrell to announce his plans in Boise, Bush had a cryptic answer: "I thought you guys said, 'Iowa,' not 'Idaho.'"

Despite his protestations, some consider him promising.

"Jeb Bush is the candidate hiding in plain sight," wrote Joshua Green in The Atlantic in July.

Vicki Risch, the wife of GOP Sen. Jim Risch, buttonholed Bush. "I asked him point blank. He said he has no plans in the immediate future. I hope that’s not forever," she said.

Class size

"Voters to decide whether to roll back class-size rules".

'Glades

"400,000 jobs, economic boost could come from restoring Everglades, study says".

Amendment 8 struggles to gain traction

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Yet Amendment 8 has struggled to gain traction as it gets closer to a Nov. 2 decision. Only 35 percent of likely voters said they would back Amendment 8, according to a Mason-Dixon poll conducted last month — woefully short of the 60 percent margin needed to pass it." "Amendment 8 delivers relief".

Meek and Clinton

"Kendrick Meek got help from former President Bill Clinton, but the Miami lawmaker remains a distant third in the U.S. Senate race." "Bill Clinton shines star power on Kendrick Meek campaign at USF St. Petersburg". See also "Bill Clinton appears Tuesday in Florida to support Kendrick Meek" and "President Clinton, in St. Pete, lauds Meek as Senate candidate for social reform".

"Could Grayson's opponent be any crazier?"

by: Florida Politics

Tue Oct 19, 2010 at 12:51:26 PM EDT

If...

by: Robert McKnight

Tue Oct 19, 2010 at 10:35:44 AM EDT

... the Republicans take control of the U.S. House of Representatives, here is how the probable Florida Delegation leadership will fare:

Losers:  Congresswoman Wasserman-Schultz (Leadership) and Congressman Alcee Hastings (Leadership).

Winners:  Congressmen Bill Young (Appropriations), John Mica (Transportation Appropriations), Cliff Stearns (Energy and Commerce), Ander Crenshaw (Appropriations), and Jeff Miller (Armed Services).

Florida Political News: Oct. 19, 2010

by: Florida Politics

Tue Oct 19, 2010 at 10:28:45 AM EDT

Rivera has no one left to lie to

"Republican congressional candidate David Rivera has amended his state financial disclosure forms to erase any mention of consulting work for the U.S. Agency for International Development -- days after USAID officials said they had no records showing Rivera worked for the agency."

Rivera's attorney, Richard Coates, told the Florida Commission on Ethics in an Oct. 15 letter that Rivera was ``not required'' to disclose any additional income from the lawmaker's consulting work from 2003 to 2009.

In his original disclosure forms, Rivera, a four-term state representative from Miami, said he worked as an "international development consultant'' for USAID for seven years, through a company called Interamerican Government Relations, which Rivera founded in Puerto Rico. But USAID officials told The Miami Herald that they had no record of Rivera or his company.

Rivera first told The Miami Herald that he won USAID contracts through competitive bidding. After learning that USAID had no record of his company, Rivera then said he worked as a subcontractor to other USAID vendors. But Rivera would not disclose the names of the contractors who hired him, saying he had promised them confidentiality.

Big Dog campaigns for Meek

"Clinton campaigns with Meek in St. Pete".

Grayson uses fat man to raise cash

"Florida Democrat Alan Grayson — never one to shy away from quirky campaign antics — made a new plea to supporters via e-mail Monday: donate to the "Rush Limbaugh, Mind Your Own Business" fund." "Alan Grayson uses Rush Limbaugh in fundraising appeal"

Klein-West debate

"U.S. Rep. Ron Klein and Republican challenger Allen West got a chance to clarify their records and positions during a live, web-streamed debate Monday morning. WPTV Channel 5 hosted the debate and reporters from the Palm Beach Post and the Palm Beach Daily News asked the questions." "Allen West, Ron Klein Respond to Attack Ads During Debate". See "Ron Klein and Allen West label each other out of touch", "Allen West's biker ties, Ron Klein's ties to Lewis, blacks reps under investigation subjects of debate" and "Klein, West portray one another as out of touch".

"A little too convenient"

"A skeptical U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle on Monday questioned a conservative group's motives for challenging Florida's campaign finance laws so close to the Nov. 2 election."

"Isn't this just a little too convenient," Hinkle asked. "If a group of law students got together and wanted to come up with a fictitious case, they couldn't do any better."

The conservative Institute for Justice, on behalf of four Southwest Florida political activists, asked Hinkle for an emergency order striking down a Florida law that requires groups who support or oppose ballot measures to form political committees and disclose their donors.

The group includes Punta Gorda Tea Party founder Robin Stublen and Pat Wayman, a member of Venice 9-12. The activists claim in court papers that they wanted to pool $150 each for a local talk radio ad opposing Amendment 4, the ballot measure that would require local governments to get voter approval for land-use changes.

But they said they dropped the plan when they learned that they exceeded the law's $500 threshold before registration is required. They filed the suit last month, claiming that their First Amendment rights to free speech were being violated.

"That severely burdens core political speech," Institute for Justice attorney Paul Sherman told Hinkle. "Our clients can't simply pick up the phone and call the radio station because the state of Florida has made that illegal."

Sherman said the Florida restrictions are no longer valid after last year's controversial U.S. Supreme Court decision, Citizens United, that lifted restrictions on corporate and union funding of independent political broadcasts.

Interrupting Sherman several times, Hinkle noted that a single group member could buy the ad without falling under the law. Granting the injunction, Hinkle said, could open the floodgates for special interests.

Early voting starts smoothly

"The first day of early voting began with just under 10,000 votes cast in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Elections officials reported no major problems at precincts." "Early voting kicks off smoothly in South Florida". See also "Popular early voting gets under way in Fla.".

SD 6

"Democrat Bill Montford has all the advantages, politically and financially, but he's taking nothing for granted in the Big Bend state senate race. Once he won the Aug. 24 Democratic primary over former state Rep. Curtis Richardson, Montford became a heavy favorite to succeed Senate Minority Leader Al Lawson." "Montford taking opponents 'very seriously'".

West fears "girly men"

"Allen West is doing his very best to make manliness an issue in the campaign for the 22nd Congressional District. ... West believes that it's important for a manly leader to avoid feminist literature at all costs, lest that leader turn into a 'chicken man' or a 'girly man.'" "The Man Show: What Does Allen West Mean When He Appeals for "Manliness" in American Politics?" (via "Norwood").

Expect GOP voter suppression this November

"The RNLA is the leading independent entity on the right devoted to preparing Republican attorneys for election day and post-election lawyering."

As Ryan Reilly has been reporting for us at TPMmuckraker, the RNLA is currently in the midst of conducting what it bills as an "unprecedented" series of election law training seminars in the run up to the midterms elections. The seminars have been held or scheduled in several states, including Illinois, Nevada, Florida, Washington, California and New York.

The public gloss the RNLA puts on its seminars is that they're for professional training. In fact, the group offers continuing legal education credits to lawyers who pay to attend them. But according to a blog post by one of the lecturers at its recent Florida seminar, only Republicans are allowed to attend. "Please note that due to the RNLA's sponsorship of this event, that attendance is limited to Republicans," Sarah Rumpf, a Florida attorney wrote on her blog. "If you are not already a member of the RNLA or are not otherwise already known by the [Republican Party of Florida], you will need a reference in order to attend this seminar."

The seminar speakers seem to have a decidedly political bent as well. The recent Florida seminar featured appearances by Rick Scott, the Republican nominee for governor, and Pam Bondi, the party's nominee of attorney general. An upcoming seminar in Seattle features the executive director and the general counsel of the state Republican Party. While the seminars offer CLE credit, they apparently aren't limited to lawyers. The sign-up sheet on the RNLA website for tonight's seminar in Chicago, for instance, includes a check-the-box for whether you are a lawyer, a law student, or "No, I am just a concerned citizen." How many nonpartisan concerned citizens attend CLEs on election law in their free time?

More tort reform?

"Tort reform an under-the-table issue in governor's race".

HD 69

"The race between incumbent Democrat Keith Fitzgerald and Republican challenger Ray Pilon is a classic matchup. Fitzgerald, an erudite New College of Florida professor, and Pilon, a long-time civic leader, take predictably divergent views of how to represent the district, which covers most of Sarasota County and just a sliver of Manatee." "State House Dist. 69 race a classic matchup".

Gelber rejects teabagger games

"Dan Gelber Wants No Part of Obamacare Suit".

Scott, the Manchurian candidate

"Scott has so far foregone the traditional round of meetings with newspaper editorial boards and has given few in-depth interviews, preferring to get his message out in campaign stops and television ads. His campaign declined requests by The Associated Press for an interview with the candidate. When he does talk to reporters, largely in gaggles after campaign events, he launches into snippets of his platform he's recited so often they seem rehearsed." "Wealthy outsider in close race for Fla. governor".

He's even murkier under oath:

Rick Scott the candidate promises voters "the unvarnished truth.''

But Rick Scott the witness offers little but murky testimony.

In a series of sworn depositions he gave in lawsuits against his former hospital company, Scott appears to be the polar opposite of the straight-talking Republican candidate for governor in his television ads.

Under oath, Scott displays a poor memory and a penchant for parsing words. He answers a lawyer's questions with questions. Smirking or shrugging his shoulders ...

Congresswoman Adams?

"Did the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee pull the plug on Rep. Suzanne Kosmas when it pulled its advertising commitment?" "Democrats Leave Suzanne Kosmas Hanging in CD 24".

"Why me?"

"Each morning as he heads out on the campaign trail, an increasingly bleak and hostile landscape, U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd must ask himself, 'Why me?'" "Of all Democrats, U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd should be safe, but he's not". More: "Poll: Southerland Poised to Oust Boyd in CD 2".

High anxiety

"Herald/Times reporters visited four Florida counties anticipated to play a pivotal role in the 2010 election. Voters expressed anxiety about the future and frustration with politicians." "As early voting starts, voters' mood is anxious".

"Difficult racial knot"

"Crist's no-party U.S. Senate candidacy is entangling Florida Democrats in a difficult racial knot of a kind they've experienced before, to their regret." "Crist takes on Meek for black votes".

Is this what a Republican looks like?

"When you're a Democrat running for Congress in a heavily Republican district, it helps to look like a Republican."

Fifth District nominee Jim Piccillo's first TV commercial never mentions his party and shows the former Airborne soldier in uniform and civilian garb wielding an M4 rifle and pledging to "kick some butt" to stop special interests from ruining the country.

Registration down; NPAs up

"Figures released by the Division of Elections on Monday show Florida has 11,217,384 voters registered for the Nov. 2 election. That's 20,250 fewer than in 2008. Of the total, 2,186,246 registered without party affiliation - 83,127 more than in 2008. ... Democrats still top Republicans by about 4.6 million to 4 million." "Fla. voter registration down 30,250 from 2008".

"Some beauties on this ballot"

Steve Otto "read one proposed constitutional amendment that sounded reasonable, even if I wasn't too clear just what it was about. Then I noticed I was reading the Spanish version. I switched over to the English example but it might as well have been in Chinese. There are some beauties on this ballot that you'd better know how you want to vote on before you head on down to your precinct." "None of the above".

Musta failed Political Science 101

Alleged college graduate Mike Thomas apparently drank too much tea this morning: Thomas actually accuses Obama of "socialism".

Never mind

"Republican CFO candidate Atwater downplays role in failed bank".

Get over it, Billy

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "McCollum should stop defending Florida's ban on gay adoption".

Can't imagine why?

"Four years ago when Sink ran and won the state's chief financial officer seat, the Democrat carried Republican-dominated Sarasota County. It's one of the reasons she has visited the area only few times compared to her competitor, Republican Rick Scott, who has campaigned in the county a half-dozen times." "Sink's Sarasota campaign stops have been sporadic".

"Likely R"

Larry Sabato:

The final Senate changes are expected ones in Florida, Missouri, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania. For some time now, we have had Republican Marco Rubio the favorite over Independent Charlie Crist and Democrat Kendrick Meek. Rubio’s lead is now so large, and the chances of Crist and Meek joining forces to unite behind one candidacy are now so small, that we are changing Florida Senate from Leans R to Likely R. ...

"A storyline no one could have dreamed up"

"With two weeks until Election Day, the race for U.S. Senate features a storyline no political operative in Florida could have dreamed up — at least not while sober."

Three candidates spread across the ideological spectrum are racing toward a finish that looks increasingly anticlimactic.

On the right is Marco Rubio, a rising star among conservative Republicans and frustrated Tea Party voters. On the left is Kendrick Meek, a Miami congressman and dependable Democrat.

And in between — his precise location is often unclear — is Gov. Charlie Crist, a political institution who fled the GOP primary in April with polls showing him trailing Rubio by 20 points.

"Voters are confused"

"Despite a court ruling last week ordering him off the Nov. 2 ballot, Republican candidate Jim Norman's name still appears on tens of thousands of ballots in the District 12 Senate race, amidst new legal maneuvers and confusion by local election and party officials." "Norman appeals ruling; Ambler asks to be put on ballot; voters are confused". The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "Justice done; voters left hanging".

Daniel Ruth: "'Tis a pity there is no elected office for a court jester. Jim Norman, Hillsborough County’s answer to Spiro Agnew meets Elmer Fudd, would be a prohibitive favorite to claim the post." "Norman’s gravy train gets derailed by a judge".

Snitker struggles

"He's been running for Senate for months, but remains unknown to most voters. That isn't discouraging Alexander Snitker." "Libertarian candidate for Senate fights for spotlight".

One way to do it

"Orlando parking meters collect money for homeless".