Politico's Ben Smith examines Governor Crist's New Republican leaderhip style and the RPOF's response to the recent developments in the RNC Chairman's race:
Charlie Crist has, in the wake of the election, cast himself as a leader of the modernizing, more diverse Republican Party, and seems to be weighing in indirectly, via a statement from his state party chairman, Jim Greer, on the Saltsman flap:
As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days. I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior.
In Florida we have worked hard to reach out to ALL citizens to promote the Republican Party’s principles and values while ensuring that our commitment to African Americans, Hispanics, and other minority communities is sincere and credible. Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party.
Today, the GOP has an unprecedented opportunity to embrace change and inclusion, and we are either going to welcome this opportunity fully or watch it slip through our fingers. We can only achieve success if Republican leaders reject racial or any other acts that divide us and instead embrace what unites us as a nation.
Monday, December 29, 2008
ICYMI: CNN Political Ticker
From the CNN Political Ticker: "Most of Saltsman's Republican rivals slam Obama parody"
NOTE: 'Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer – who has reportedly been weighing a run for the party’s top spot, but has not officially announced a bid — released a Monday morning statement praising candidates who have weighed in against the 'racially-insulting song.'
'As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days,' he said. 'I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior.'
'Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party.'
Most of Saltsman's Republican rivals slam Obama parody
From CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand
(CNN) – Republican Party reaction remains divided over the decision of a candidate for party chairman to distribute a CD that featured the parody tune “Barack the Magic Negro,” with the majority of Chip Saltsman’s political rivals criticizing the move.
Republican National Committee Chairman Mike Duncan – battling to keep his job as head of the party – was the first prominent member of the GOP to criticize Saltsman for sending committee members the song.
"The 2008 election was a wake-up call for Republicans to reach out and bring more people into our party," RNC Chairman Mike Duncan said in a Saturday statement.
"I am shocked and appalled that anyone would think this is appropriate, as it clearly does not move us in the right direction."
Michigan party chairman Saul Anuzis also questioned Saltsman’s judgment. "In my opinion, this isn't funny and its in bad taste," he said in a statement. "Just as important, anything that paints the GOP as being motivated in our criticism of President-elect Obama by anything other than a difference in philosophy does a disservice to our party."
Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer – who has reportedly been weighing a run for the party’s top spot, but has not officially announced a bid — released a Monday morning statement praising candidates who have weighed in against the "racially-insulting song."
“As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days," he said. "I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior."
"Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party."
Saltsman sent RNC members the parody CD "We Hate the USA" for Christmas, which includes the controversial tune. He defended his decision Friday, telling CNN the song was clearly intended as a joke.
Read more here.
NOTE: 'Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer – who has reportedly been weighing a run for the party’s top spot, but has not officially announced a bid — released a Monday morning statement praising candidates who have weighed in against the 'racially-insulting song.'
'As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days,' he said. 'I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior.'
'Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party.'
Most of Saltsman's Republican rivals slam Obama parody
From CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand
(CNN) – Republican Party reaction remains divided over the decision of a candidate for party chairman to distribute a CD that featured the parody tune “Barack the Magic Negro,” with the majority of Chip Saltsman’s political rivals criticizing the move.
Republican National Committee Chairman Mike Duncan – battling to keep his job as head of the party – was the first prominent member of the GOP to criticize Saltsman for sending committee members the song.
"The 2008 election was a wake-up call for Republicans to reach out and bring more people into our party," RNC Chairman Mike Duncan said in a Saturday statement.
"I am shocked and appalled that anyone would think this is appropriate, as it clearly does not move us in the right direction."
Michigan party chairman Saul Anuzis also questioned Saltsman’s judgment. "In my opinion, this isn't funny and its in bad taste," he said in a statement. "Just as important, anything that paints the GOP as being motivated in our criticism of President-elect Obama by anything other than a difference in philosophy does a disservice to our party."
Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer – who has reportedly been weighing a run for the party’s top spot, but has not officially announced a bid — released a Monday morning statement praising candidates who have weighed in against the "racially-insulting song."
“As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days," he said. "I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior."
"Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party."
Saltsman sent RNC members the parody CD "We Hate the USA" for Christmas, which includes the controversial tune. He defended his decision Friday, telling CNN the song was clearly intended as a joke.
Read more here.
Greer Applauds RNC Chair Candidates’ Stance on Saltsman CD Message, Rejects Racially Divisive Rhetoric
Tallahassee—Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer released the following statement today in support of candidates for the RNC Chairmanship who have taken a firm position on Chip Saltsman’s distribution of a CD including a racially-insulting song:
“As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days. I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior.
“In Florida we have worked hard to reach out to ALL citizens to promote the Republican Party’s principles and values while ensuring that our commitment to African Americans, Hispanics, and other minority communities is sincere and credible. Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party.
“Today, the GOP has an unprecedented opportunity to embrace change and inclusion, and we are either going to welcome this opportunity fully or watch it slip through our fingers. We can only achieve success if Republican leaders reject racial or any other acts that divide us and instead embrace what unites us as a nation.”
# # #
See articles on this subject: RNC Candidate Distributes Controversial Obama Song, Republican's Gift Held Racial Parody of Obama, GOP chair 'appalled' by 'Magic Negro' CD
“As the GOP Chairman in one of our nation’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states, I am especially disappointed by the inappropriate words and actions we’ve seen over the past few days. I am proud of those party leaders who have stood up in firm opposition to this type of behavior.
“In Florida we have worked hard to reach out to ALL citizens to promote the Republican Party’s principles and values while ensuring that our commitment to African Americans, Hispanics, and other minority communities is sincere and credible. Actions such as the distribution of this CD, regardless of intent, only serves to promote divisiveness and distracts us from our common goal of building our party.
“Today, the GOP has an unprecedented opportunity to embrace change and inclusion, and we are either going to welcome this opportunity fully or watch it slip through our fingers. We can only achieve success if Republican leaders reject racial or any other acts that divide us and instead embrace what unites us as a nation.”
# # #
See articles on this subject: RNC Candidate Distributes Controversial Obama Song, Republican's Gift Held Racial Parody of Obama, GOP chair 'appalled' by 'Magic Negro' CD
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
In a New York State of...Taxes
House Majority Leader Adam Hasner brings some interesting articles to our attention, especially compelling after this morning's House session on economic conditions and the state budget.
Leader Hasner notes, "While the news today was sobering, in order to provide some perspective, I am forwarding you these two articles to share with you how the State of New York is proposing to balance their budget which currently has a $15.4 billion deficit.
"As other states choose to reach deeper into the pockets of taxpayers, we should not ask Florida’s families and small businesses to pay more to government at a time when they are already making do with less. We must examine state government and stop spending taxpayer dollars on programs that have outlived their usefulness or exist only to serve the needs of some special interest."
The first article, from New York Daily News, explains that NY Gov. David Paterson "...called for 88 new fees and a host of other taxes, including an 'iPod tax' that taxes the sale of downloaded music and other 'digitally delivered entertainment services.'
"...The proposal, which needs legislative approval, did not include broad-based income tax increases, but relied on smaller ones to raise $4.1 billion from cash-strapped New Yorkers.
"Movie tickets, taxi rides, soda, beer, wine, cigars and massages would be taxed under Paterson's proposal. It also extends sales taxes to cable and satellite TV services and removes the tax exemption for clothes costing less than $110."
The second article, from the NY Post, notes that the "...plan represents the biggest tax hike in state history and slashes services across the board - while still increasing spending by $1.4 billion."
Highlights:
* An "iTunes tax" of 4 percent on videos, music or pictures downloaded from the Internet.
* A 4 percent tax on taxi, limo and bus rides. That means a $10 cab ride would cost 40 cents more.
* A 4 percent entertainment tax on tickets to movies, concerts and sporting events.
* The tax on beer increases 24 cents per gallon, or more than double the current rate, which means about 30 cents a case.
* An 18 percent tax on nondiet soft drinks, which aims to reduce child obesity. A $1.50 can of Pepsi would then cost at least 25 cents more.
* A 4 percent tax on cable TV and satellite services, raising a $100 bill by $4.
* A 4 percent sales tax on clothing and shoes under $500, except for two weeks out of the year.
* Elimination of the law that caps the state sales tax on gasoline at 8 cents per gallon.
* Boosting the average vehicle registration fee for drivers by $11, from $44 to $55. Fees for new or renewed licenses also would increase 25 percent, or increase from $50 to about $62 to renew a license over eight years.
Dems' Shakedowns and Hasner's Golf Swing
Who says it all has to be about the economy? With Florida's legislators back in town, there is always something to blog about...
Two articles today highlight the trouble facing House Democrat Leader Franklin Sands, who has most recently come under fire for allegedly participating in pay-to-play politics. Read the Orlando Sentinel article and the News-Press article.
Meanwhile, House Majority Leader Adam Hasner told the Tallahassee Democrat, "'Our system isn't set up that way,' adding that assignments are based solely on a member's expertise and interest."
"When a reporter asked if the assignments were also based on the quality of their golf swings, Hasner jokingly agreed.
"'Yeah, that's why I don't chair any committees,' he said."
Two articles today highlight the trouble facing House Democrat Leader Franklin Sands, who has most recently come under fire for allegedly participating in pay-to-play politics. Read the Orlando Sentinel article and the News-Press article.
Meanwhile, House Majority Leader Adam Hasner told the Tallahassee Democrat, "'Our system isn't set up that way,' adding that assignments are based solely on a member's expertise and interest."
"When a reporter asked if the assignments were also based on the quality of their golf swings, Hasner jokingly agreed.
"'Yeah, that's why I don't chair any committees,' he said."
Broward Republican Party re-elects leaders
By Anthony Man, South Florida Sun-Sentinel
The top leadership of the Broward Republican Party — Chairman Chip LaMarca and Vice Chairwoman Cindy Guerra — will run the local party for the next two years.
Republican committeemen and committeewomen elected in the August primary voted overwhelmingly Monday night to re-elect LaMarca and Guerra. Republicans also re-elected Richard Stark treasurer.
The newcomer to the leadership team is Michael De Gruccio, a former president of the Broward Young Republicans. He's the party's new secretary.
None of the leadership team had opposition.
Even though Democrats in Broward outnumber Republicans, LaMarca said in the new year the party would get involved in helping the handful of Republicans running for re-election in cities, towns and villages, and would seek to bolster their numbers.
He also said better Internet-based technology and increasing the number of active committeemen and committeewoman would be high on his priority list as the party looks toward the 2010 gubernatorial and U.S. Senate elections.
The top leadership of the Broward Republican Party — Chairman Chip LaMarca and Vice Chairwoman Cindy Guerra — will run the local party for the next two years.
Republican committeemen and committeewomen elected in the August primary voted overwhelmingly Monday night to re-elect LaMarca and Guerra. Republicans also re-elected Richard Stark treasurer.
The newcomer to the leadership team is Michael De Gruccio, a former president of the Broward Young Republicans. He's the party's new secretary.
None of the leadership team had opposition.
Even though Democrats in Broward outnumber Republicans, LaMarca said in the new year the party would get involved in helping the handful of Republicans running for re-election in cities, towns and villages, and would seek to bolster their numbers.
He also said better Internet-based technology and increasing the number of active committeemen and committeewoman would be high on his priority list as the party looks toward the 2010 gubernatorial and U.S. Senate elections.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Chairman's Greer's Politico Op-Ed
Putting the people back in politics
Over the past 25 years I have had the opportunity to view the Republican Party wearing the hat of a small-town city councilman, political fundraiser, and now as chairman of the state party for the fourth largest state in the nation, during the most important presidential election in my lifetime.
Despite this tremendous opportunity, the role from which I have learned the most was not my last two years as chairman, but the years when, like the majority of Americans, I wore the hat of a small business owner, husband, and father of four. It is through the eyes of a businessman – not the party structure – that I became a Republican. I’ve learned that our party draws its strength not from the principles elected officials talk about, but from the values average Americans live by.
Refocusing on these values, putting partisan rhetoric aside, and putting the people back in politics, Republicans can regain our foundation and focus on serving the people. It’s what we do in Florida. It works for us here, and I believe it’s what we need to do in Washington and across the nation.
Read more here.
Over the past 25 years I have had the opportunity to view the Republican Party wearing the hat of a small-town city councilman, political fundraiser, and now as chairman of the state party for the fourth largest state in the nation, during the most important presidential election in my lifetime.
Despite this tremendous opportunity, the role from which I have learned the most was not my last two years as chairman, but the years when, like the majority of Americans, I wore the hat of a small business owner, husband, and father of four. It is through the eyes of a businessman – not the party structure – that I became a Republican. I’ve learned that our party draws its strength not from the principles elected officials talk about, but from the values average Americans live by.
Refocusing on these values, putting partisan rhetoric aside, and putting the people back in politics, Republicans can regain our foundation and focus on serving the people. It’s what we do in Florida. It works for us here, and I believe it’s what we need to do in Washington and across the nation.
Read more here.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Rangel Hits Obama Closer to Home
It certainly didn't take long for scandal to rear its ugly head in the new era of Democratic control. Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich saw to that, and in spectacular fashion.
But while most attention is fixed on the Blagojevich scandal -- coming as it does in President-elect Barack Obama's home state and replete as it is with enough tape-recorded talk of peddling a Senate seat, shaking down contributors and blackmailing journalists to make even FBI agents blush -- it may not be the most troublesome one for the new president.
His more vexing problem could turn out to be that other, quieter scandal dogging Democrats. That's the one involving Rep. Charles Rangel, head of the House Ways and Means Committee.
Read more from the Wall Street Journal here.
But while most attention is fixed on the Blagojevich scandal -- coming as it does in President-elect Barack Obama's home state and replete as it is with enough tape-recorded talk of peddling a Senate seat, shaking down contributors and blackmailing journalists to make even FBI agents blush -- it may not be the most troublesome one for the new president.
His more vexing problem could turn out to be that other, quieter scandal dogging Democrats. That's the one involving Rep. Charles Rangel, head of the House Ways and Means Committee.
Read more from the Wall Street Journal here.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Karen Thurman Tells Barack Obama: ‘You Can Keep Your Change’
Tallahassee—Barack Obama has pledged to set up a bipartisan administration and revive the economy. We take him at his word. Florida Democrat Chairman Karen Thurman, however, refuses to follow the lead of President-Elect Obama, continuing to hurl hyper-partisan attacks across the aisle instead of working for change.
Under the leadership of Governor Crist, Republicans are working to get our economy back on track by accelerating transportation projects, increasing access to affordable healthcare, and helping homeowners facing foreclosure. Our goal is to stimulate the economy and keep taxes low, versus stimulating controversy for political hay and taking the low road. Republicans have also tried to reach across the aisle and appoint Democrats to leadership positions in the Legislature, but instead of accepting the positions and working with Republicans for change, the Democrats used the same old playbook and refused “…so that it would be easier for the minority party to criticize the GOP-run process.” (“House Democrats Decline Committee Leadership Positions" )
While accusing Republicans of election losses, Thurman neglects to mention that the Florida Democrats had an unprecedented amount of cash, staff, and resources this election cycle, but they still couldn’t beat one Republican incumbent Legislator this year.
If Karen Thurman and the Democrats are interested in doing what’s best for Floridians, they would stop the nonsense, end the political games, and give up the ridiculous attacks.
If the Democrats want to do what’s best for Republicans, they will keep up the same old attacks and repetitive losses.
Meanwhile, we’ll keep providing strong leadership that the people will continue to support at the ballot box. We appreciate your assistance, Chairman Thurman!
Under the leadership of Governor Crist, Republicans are working to get our economy back on track by accelerating transportation projects, increasing access to affordable healthcare, and helping homeowners facing foreclosure. Our goal is to stimulate the economy and keep taxes low, versus stimulating controversy for political hay and taking the low road. Republicans have also tried to reach across the aisle and appoint Democrats to leadership positions in the Legislature, but instead of accepting the positions and working with Republicans for change, the Democrats used the same old playbook and refused “…so that it would be easier for the minority party to criticize the GOP-run process.” (“House Democrats Decline Committee Leadership Positions" )
While accusing Republicans of election losses, Thurman neglects to mention that the Florida Democrats had an unprecedented amount of cash, staff, and resources this election cycle, but they still couldn’t beat one Republican incumbent Legislator this year.
If Karen Thurman and the Democrats are interested in doing what’s best for Floridians, they would stop the nonsense, end the political games, and give up the ridiculous attacks.
If the Democrats want to do what’s best for Republicans, they will keep up the same old attacks and repetitive losses.
Meanwhile, we’ll keep providing strong leadership that the people will continue to support at the ballot box. We appreciate your assistance, Chairman Thurman!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Governor Crist Launches Cover Florida
To launch the Cover Florida Health Care Access Program available January 5, 2009, Governor Charlie Crist today witnessed the signing of contracts between six health insurance providers and Secretary Holly Benson of the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and Commissioner Kevin McCarty of the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR). The new health insurance plans will make affordable, quality health insurance coverage and access to health care available to Florida’s 3.8 million uninsured applicants age 19 to 64, with four of the six carriers insuring children of applicants.
Read more here.
Read more here.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
NRCC Announces New Executive Director and Deputy ED
The National Republican Congressional Committee announced today the hiring of its first two senior staffers for the upcoming cycle. Guy Harrison will step into the role of Executive Director, controlling the Committee's day-to-day operations. Harrison comes to the NRCC from his previous position as Chief of Staff to incoming NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions. For 14 years, he has helped guide Sessions to multiple reelection wins, including a resounding win over former Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Martin Frost in 2004.
Click here for more info.
Click here for more info.
Did Democrats peak too early?
By Jeanne Cummings, Politico
December 9, 2008
Did the Democrats’ exile end too soon?
That may be a question that nags at more than a few party activists once all the partying is done.
Democrats have clearly come a long way in rebuilding their party infrastructure since falling from power in the late 1990s.
They’ve upgraded their party databases. They’ve established a relatively small but vibrant group of think tanks and candidate-training programs.
They’ve shown they can craft messages that resonate in every region in the country and used them well enough on Election Day to retake the White House and boost their majorities in the House and Senate.
But the Georgia runoff election last Tuesday exposed some remaining weakness. And it’s unclear if, in these heady times and at this point of transition, the party will focus on it or look past it.
To View the Entire Article, Click Here.
December 9, 2008
Did the Democrats’ exile end too soon?
That may be a question that nags at more than a few party activists once all the partying is done.
Democrats have clearly come a long way in rebuilding their party infrastructure since falling from power in the late 1990s.
They’ve upgraded their party databases. They’ve established a relatively small but vibrant group of think tanks and candidate-training programs.
They’ve shown they can craft messages that resonate in every region in the country and used them well enough on Election Day to retake the White House and boost their majorities in the House and Senate.
But the Georgia runoff election last Tuesday exposed some remaining weakness. And it’s unclear if, in these heady times and at this point of transition, the party will focus on it or look past it.
To View the Entire Article, Click Here.
Governor Crist Announces Chief of Technology
Governor Charlie Crist today appointed David W. Taylor of Tallahassee as executive director of the Agency for Enterprise Information Technology and state chief information officer. The Florida Cabinet unanimously approved the appointment. He will oversee the state agency responsible for developing the State of Florida’s enterprise strategic information technology plan. Taylor has been serving as interim director since July 2008, while continuing to serve as chief information officer for the Florida Department of Health since March 2003.
Click here for more information.
Click here for more information.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Governor Crist Names Peter Boulware to State Board of Education
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today appointed Peter Boulware, 33, of Tallahassee, to the State Board of Education.
“Peter will be a wonderful addition to the State Board of Education,” said Governor Crist. “As a former professional athlete and now as a businessman and father, he has proven himself to be a strong role model who values education and understands how important it is in bettering the lives of Floridians.”
Boulware is married with three children and is vice president of the Legacy Toyota dealership in Tallahassee. A former All-American for the Florida State University Seminoles, Boulware graduated in 1997 and played for nine years in the NFL as a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens. In Baltimore, he established the Peter Boulware Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization in which Boulware served as a mentor and motivational speaker to inner-city students, many of them young athletes. He currently serves on the Florida State University Athletics Committee, and previously was a board member of the University of Maryland Medical Children’s Hospital.
“I’m very excited that the Governor has appointed me to this position,” said Boulware. “It’s definitely an honor, and I look forward to working to help improve our education system here in Florida.”
Boulware succeeds Donna Callaway, who resigned on June 25, 2008. Boulware’s appointment is effective immediately, and his term runs through December 31, 2009.
“Peter will be a wonderful addition to the State Board of Education,” said Governor Crist. “As a former professional athlete and now as a businessman and father, he has proven himself to be a strong role model who values education and understands how important it is in bettering the lives of Floridians.”
Boulware is married with three children and is vice president of the Legacy Toyota dealership in Tallahassee. A former All-American for the Florida State University Seminoles, Boulware graduated in 1997 and played for nine years in the NFL as a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens. In Baltimore, he established the Peter Boulware Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization in which Boulware served as a mentor and motivational speaker to inner-city students, many of them young athletes. He currently serves on the Florida State University Athletics Committee, and previously was a board member of the University of Maryland Medical Children’s Hospital.
“I’m very excited that the Governor has appointed me to this position,” said Boulware. “It’s definitely an honor, and I look forward to working to help improve our education system here in Florida.”
Boulware succeeds Donna Callaway, who resigned on June 25, 2008. Boulware’s appointment is effective immediately, and his term runs through December 31, 2009.
Governor Crist Announces $11.5 Million to Help Florida Homeowners
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today announced that Florida has received nearly $11.5 million to continue providing statewide foreclosure prevention counseling and legal assistance to homeowners in foreclosure. The boost will enable 77 counseling agencies and organizations across the state to provide foreclosure counseling. The funds also will allow legal services groups to counsel area homeowners at risk of foreclosure.
“These dollars will go a long way toward helping Floridians stay in their homes, and we are grateful to the federal government,” said Governor Charlie Crist. “By working together, Florida and Washington, D.C., are providing the advice and counsel to help residents here in the Sunshine State retain the dream of home ownership.”
The grant to support Florida’s foreclosure counseling intervention efforts comes from funds provided through the Housing and Economic Recover Act approved by Congress in July of 2008. Congress appropriated $180 million to be distributed nationally through a competitive application process administered by NeighborWorks® America, within guidelines defined by federal legislation. NeighborWorks America is an independent, congressionally-chartered, non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., that provides access to homeownership and affordable rental housing. In March 2008, Florida received nearly $1.3 million to support statewide foreclosure prevention counseling efforts. Those funds enabled approximately 50 counseling agencies/organizations to provide more foreclosure counseling than ever before to homeowners in danger of foreclosure.
The federal dollars for Florida come as Governor Crist and his administration continue working to help Florida homeowners. According to RealtyTrac, Florida has the nation’s third-highest state foreclosure rate, with 166,600 households statewide being impacted by foreclosure activities in October 2008.
Earlier this month Governor Crist joined representatives of the banking and mortgage lending industry to announce a voluntary agreement to provide foreclosure relief to Florida homestead property owners for 45 day, through the holidays and New Year. Also, the Florida Department of Community Affairs recently submitted to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) its proposed plan for distributing $91.1 million in federal funds to smaller urban and rural communities to respond to rising foreclosures and falling home values. In September 2008, HUD announced that targeted Florida cities and counties would receive $541 million in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for this purpose.
In February 2008, Governor Crist created the Florida Home Ownership Promotes the Economy (HOPE) Task Force to review Florida’s foreclosure rate and its impact on Florida’s economy. In April, the task force submitted recommendations, including urging loan services and investors to pursue all workout options and to dedicate resources to foreclosure prevention. To learn more about foreclosure prevention resources, please visit www.FloridaHousing.org and click on “Foreclosure Prevention Resources Now Available!”
# # #
“These dollars will go a long way toward helping Floridians stay in their homes, and we are grateful to the federal government,” said Governor Charlie Crist. “By working together, Florida and Washington, D.C., are providing the advice and counsel to help residents here in the Sunshine State retain the dream of home ownership.”
The grant to support Florida’s foreclosure counseling intervention efforts comes from funds provided through the Housing and Economic Recover Act approved by Congress in July of 2008. Congress appropriated $180 million to be distributed nationally through a competitive application process administered by NeighborWorks® America, within guidelines defined by federal legislation. NeighborWorks America is an independent, congressionally-chartered, non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., that provides access to homeownership and affordable rental housing. In March 2008, Florida received nearly $1.3 million to support statewide foreclosure prevention counseling efforts. Those funds enabled approximately 50 counseling agencies/organizations to provide more foreclosure counseling than ever before to homeowners in danger of foreclosure.
The federal dollars for Florida come as Governor Crist and his administration continue working to help Florida homeowners. According to RealtyTrac, Florida has the nation’s third-highest state foreclosure rate, with 166,600 households statewide being impacted by foreclosure activities in October 2008.
Earlier this month Governor Crist joined representatives of the banking and mortgage lending industry to announce a voluntary agreement to provide foreclosure relief to Florida homestead property owners for 45 day, through the holidays and New Year. Also, the Florida Department of Community Affairs recently submitted to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) its proposed plan for distributing $91.1 million in federal funds to smaller urban and rural communities to respond to rising foreclosures and falling home values. In September 2008, HUD announced that targeted Florida cities and counties would receive $541 million in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for this purpose.
In February 2008, Governor Crist created the Florida Home Ownership Promotes the Economy (HOPE) Task Force to review Florida’s foreclosure rate and its impact on Florida’s economy. In April, the task force submitted recommendations, including urging loan services and investors to pursue all workout options and to dedicate resources to foreclosure prevention. To learn more about foreclosure prevention resources, please visit www.FloridaHousing.org and click on “Foreclosure Prevention Resources Now Available!”
# # #
WaPo Politics blog: "Are Republicans on the March?"
WaPo's Chris Cillizza has an interesting take on Republican victories in Georgia and Louisiana over the past few days. These victories echo GOP's performance in Florida, where the Obama coattails were short and FL Democrats failed to defeat a single Republican incumbent in the Legislature, even in the best possible political environment.
Notes Cillizza, "In the wake of an election cycle dominated by bad news for Republicans, the last five days have been a welcome relief.
Georgia Sen. Saxby Chambliss cruised to a runoff victory last Tuesday, and House Republicans held Louisiana's 4th district and pulled off a massive upset win over Rep. Bill Jefferson in Louisiana's 2nd district on Saturday.
Those three developments have led some Republicans to insist that what happened on Nov. 4 was almost entirely due to President-elect Barack Obama's unique electoral appeal and that when the soon-to-be-president is not on the ballot -- the 2010 midterm elections -- his party will not fare nearly as well.
"Voters vented on Nov. 4th and the momentum that swept Obama and many other Democrats to victory has now stalled a bit," said Republican pollster Neil Newhouse, a partner in the firm Public Opinion Strategies. "It seems it might have been 'easy' to get the Democratic base excited about Nov. 4th -- the historic opportunity to elect Obama and send a message of rejection to Bush's eight-year tenure -- but it's a bit more difficult re-energizing those voters now, with seemingly less at stake."
...
"While I don't think these victories mean that the GOP has miraculously fixed everything that is currently broken, I do think that they a really positive data points," said Alex Vogel, a prominent Republican strategist. "Just like the Democrats took advance comfort from the special elections they won leading up to the 2008 elections, we should certainly view these overtime wins as a sign that the sun is rising again."
Notes Cillizza, "In the wake of an election cycle dominated by bad news for Republicans, the last five days have been a welcome relief.
Georgia Sen. Saxby Chambliss cruised to a runoff victory last Tuesday, and House Republicans held Louisiana's 4th district and pulled off a massive upset win over Rep. Bill Jefferson in Louisiana's 2nd district on Saturday.
Those three developments have led some Republicans to insist that what happened on Nov. 4 was almost entirely due to President-elect Barack Obama's unique electoral appeal and that when the soon-to-be-president is not on the ballot -- the 2010 midterm elections -- his party will not fare nearly as well.
"Voters vented on Nov. 4th and the momentum that swept Obama and many other Democrats to victory has now stalled a bit," said Republican pollster Neil Newhouse, a partner in the firm Public Opinion Strategies. "It seems it might have been 'easy' to get the Democratic base excited about Nov. 4th -- the historic opportunity to elect Obama and send a message of rejection to Bush's eight-year tenure -- but it's a bit more difficult re-energizing those voters now, with seemingly less at stake."
...
"While I don't think these victories mean that the GOP has miraculously fixed everything that is currently broken, I do think that they a really positive data points," said Alex Vogel, a prominent Republican strategist. "Just like the Democrats took advance comfort from the special elections they won leading up to the 2008 elections, we should certainly view these overtime wins as a sign that the sun is rising again."
Thursday, December 4, 2008
ADL Appauds Local GOP's Rejection of White Supermacist
December 4, 2008 - 1:40 PM
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) applauds the Palm Beach County Republican Party's refusal to recognize Derek Black's election to one of the county Republican Executive Committee seats. In addition to failing to sign the Republican Party of Florida's loyalty oath, Derek Black has an irrefutable long history as a white supremacist and is a rising star in the movement.
Andrew Rosenkranz, ADL FL Regional Director, issued the following statement:
"Although white supremacists typically reject being labeled as such and prefer to say that they are pro-white, it is indisputable that Derek Black is a racist who believes that whites are smarter than non-whites, superior to non-whites and deserve to be treated differently and have more privileges because they are white. Derek Black has been attending white supremacist gatherings since he was ten years-old when he even had his own section on Stormfront to promote white supremacy to other children.
As recently as November 8th, Black was one of the keynote speakers at a white supremacist conference sponsored by former Klan leader and anti-Semite David Duke and his organization EURO (European American Unity and Rights Organization) in Memphis, Tennessee. A number of white supremacists, including Derek's father, former Klansman Don Black, racist radio show host James Edwards and Canadian racist Paul Fromm, also attended the conference."
Read more here.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) applauds the Palm Beach County Republican Party's refusal to recognize Derek Black's election to one of the county Republican Executive Committee seats. In addition to failing to sign the Republican Party of Florida's loyalty oath, Derek Black has an irrefutable long history as a white supremacist and is a rising star in the movement.
Andrew Rosenkranz, ADL FL Regional Director, issued the following statement:
"Although white supremacists typically reject being labeled as such and prefer to say that they are pro-white, it is indisputable that Derek Black is a racist who believes that whites are smarter than non-whites, superior to non-whites and deserve to be treated differently and have more privileges because they are white. Derek Black has been attending white supremacist gatherings since he was ten years-old when he even had his own section on Stormfront to promote white supremacy to other children.
As recently as November 8th, Black was one of the keynote speakers at a white supremacist conference sponsored by former Klan leader and anti-Semite David Duke and his organization EURO (European American Unity and Rights Organization) in Memphis, Tennessee. A number of white supremacists, including Derek's father, former Klansman Don Black, racist radio show host James Edwards and Canadian racist Paul Fromm, also attended the conference."
Read more here.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Statement from Bill McCollum on Martinez Announcement
Tallahassee–Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum released the following statement:
“I was surprised to learn today that Senator Mel Martinez will not be seeking re-election for his post in 2010. Senator Martinez has served his constituents and our state admirably, and with his decision not to seek another term the people of Florida are losing a dedicated public servant.
“I have been asked today whether this announcement will have any effect on my plans for the future. At this point, my plan is – at the appropriate time – to announce my intention to seek re-election as Florida's Attorney General. However, given today's development, I will seriously consider and discuss with my family a race for this U.S. Senate seat, and we will share our decision at a later date.”
“I was surprised to learn today that Senator Mel Martinez will not be seeking re-election for his post in 2010. Senator Martinez has served his constituents and our state admirably, and with his decision not to seek another term the people of Florida are losing a dedicated public servant.
“I have been asked today whether this announcement will have any effect on my plans for the future. At this point, my plan is – at the appropriate time – to announce my intention to seek re-election as Florida's Attorney General. However, given today's development, I will seriously consider and discuss with my family a race for this U.S. Senate seat, and we will share our decision at a later date.”
Greer Praises Senator Martinez's Career in Public Service
Tallahassee–Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer released the following statement regarding Senator Mel Martinez’s decision to retire from the United States Senate at the conclusion of his current term:
“I am grateful to Senator Martinez for his commitment to the people of our state and our nation throughout his tenure in the United States Senate.
“From serving in President Bush’s Cabinet to the halls of the Senate to his guidance as Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Mel Martinez has been a tireless advocate for the Republican principles of less taxing, less spending, less government and more freedom.
“Having survived the perils of a communist regime, Mel – more than many – understands that freedom is worth fighting for. He has spent much of his adult life advocating for the American way of life and the freedoms that so many of us take for granted.
“Mel’s career in public service will not end with his retirement from the United States Senate. I look forward to working with him to grow and build our party for years to come.”
“I am grateful to Senator Martinez for his commitment to the people of our state and our nation throughout his tenure in the United States Senate.
“From serving in President Bush’s Cabinet to the halls of the Senate to his guidance as Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Mel Martinez has been a tireless advocate for the Republican principles of less taxing, less spending, less government and more freedom.
“Having survived the perils of a communist regime, Mel – more than many – understands that freedom is worth fighting for. He has spent much of his adult life advocating for the American way of life and the freedoms that so many of us take for granted.
“Mel’s career in public service will not end with his retirement from the United States Senate. I look forward to working with him to grow and build our party for years to come.”
Crist to Obama: Show us the money, and come watch a Shuttle launch
by Aaron Deslatte, Orlando Sentinel
Gov. Charlie Crist has offered a silver-tongued "show me the money" request to President-Elect Barack Obama Tuesday as the nation's governors collectively gathered with him in Philadelphia today to air out their concerns.
Crist's office also sent out a letter to Obama detailing Florida's fiscal plight and asking the feds to provide more Medicaid dollars, road-building assistance and passage of the Columbian Free Trade Agreement.
Crist argues Florida has "the third-highest home foreclosure rate in the nation, a 7 percent unemployment rate, and a projected state revenue shortfall of roughly $6 billion for the current and next fiscal year." He then takes credit for speeding up some 179 transportation projects in August, claims that created 38,000 jobs (even though employment levels continue to plummet), and touts the Cover Florida health isurance plan that will be implemented next month to try and cover some of the 4.8 million uninsured with bare-bones coverage.
His requests:
1. Relax Federal Medical Assistance Percntage (FMAP) rules, so Florida can draw down $991 million in federal dollars for its Medicaid populations.
2. Devote more dollars to infrastructure. Crist said the state has $7 billion in projects that could be completed within four months that would create 195,000 jobs.
3. Pass the much-debated Colombian Free Trade Agreement, which Obama has raised objections about during the campaign.
And by the way, Crist reminds Obama in the letter Florida will need help with that whole Space Shuttle retirement party, and will require "a strong federal-state partnership and commitment to working with local communities to provide economic opportunities for individuals impacted by the shuttle retirement."
"I invite you to join me in Florida for an upcoming launch of the Space Shuttle and to discuss the future of our nation's space program," he writes.
Gov. Charlie Crist has offered a silver-tongued "show me the money" request to President-Elect Barack Obama Tuesday as the nation's governors collectively gathered with him in Philadelphia today to air out their concerns.
Crist's office also sent out a letter to Obama detailing Florida's fiscal plight and asking the feds to provide more Medicaid dollars, road-building assistance and passage of the Columbian Free Trade Agreement.
Crist argues Florida has "the third-highest home foreclosure rate in the nation, a 7 percent unemployment rate, and a projected state revenue shortfall of roughly $6 billion for the current and next fiscal year." He then takes credit for speeding up some 179 transportation projects in August, claims that created 38,000 jobs (even though employment levels continue to plummet), and touts the Cover Florida health isurance plan that will be implemented next month to try and cover some of the 4.8 million uninsured with bare-bones coverage.
His requests:
1. Relax Federal Medical Assistance Percntage (FMAP) rules, so Florida can draw down $991 million in federal dollars for its Medicaid populations.
2. Devote more dollars to infrastructure. Crist said the state has $7 billion in projects that could be completed within four months that would create 195,000 jobs.
3. Pass the much-debated Colombian Free Trade Agreement, which Obama has raised objections about during the campaign.
And by the way, Crist reminds Obama in the letter Florida will need help with that whole Space Shuttle retirement party, and will require "a strong federal-state partnership and commitment to working with local communities to provide economic opportunities for individuals impacted by the shuttle retirement."
"I invite you to join me in Florida for an upcoming launch of the Space Shuttle and to discuss the future of our nation's space program," he writes.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Breaking: Sink Not Running for US Senate?
From (yet again) Politico, just posted:
Sink not running against Martinez
One of the Democrats’ leading candidates to challenge Sen. Mel Martinez (R-Fla.) in 2010 has decided to pass up the opportunity, according to a source familiar with her thinking.
Florida’s chief financial officer, Alex Sink, has decided to run for a second term as CFO and forego a run against Martinez. She made the decision over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Sink’s office did not return phone calls seeking comment.
Sink not running against Martinez
One of the Democrats’ leading candidates to challenge Sen. Mel Martinez (R-Fla.) in 2010 has decided to pass up the opportunity, according to a source familiar with her thinking.
Florida’s chief financial officer, Alex Sink, has decided to run for a second term as CFO and forego a run against Martinez. She made the decision over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Sink’s office did not return phone calls seeking comment.
Georgia on our Minds...
The folks at Politico sum up the short Obama coattails in GA, noting, "Democrats have given a lot of lip service to the Georgia runoff, but don’t seem to have put their money behind their man. USA Today reports that Republican Sen. Saxby Chambliss “raised $1.6 million in large contributions — amounts of $1,000 or more — from Nov. 13 through Nov. 21 compared with $462,000 for [Jim] Martin.” Outside groups have done even more, as the NRSC has put $2.5 million into the race, more than twice that of outside Democratic groups.
Belinda Ortiz to Head Hispanic Outreach for RPOF
Tallahassee–Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer today announced his appointment of Belinda Ortiz to serve as Director of Hispanic Outreach and Deputy Director of the Minority Outreach and Coalitions Department for the Republican Party of Florida.
“Hispanic voters in Florida are an important part of our party’s future success and the appointment of Belinda Ortiz demonstrates that gaining the confidence and ultimately the Hispanic vote is a top priority,” said Chairman Greer.
Ortiz most recently served as president and chief executive officer for Zitro of Orlando, Inc., a public relations and business development firm in Central Florida. She previously served as director of public policy for the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association. Visit RPOF's website for more.
“Hispanic voters in Florida are an important part of our party’s future success and the appointment of Belinda Ortiz demonstrates that gaining the confidence and ultimately the Hispanic vote is a top priority,” said Chairman Greer.
Ortiz most recently served as president and chief executive officer for Zitro of Orlando, Inc., a public relations and business development firm in Central Florida. She previously served as director of public policy for the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association. Visit RPOF's website for more.
Kosmas Backer Caught Making Sweetheart Deals
Will Suzanne Kosmas Condemn Her Benefactor or Keep Taking His Dirty Money?
Washington- It’s no secret that Suzanne Kosmas' recent bid for a seat in Congress was bankrolled by the ethically tarnished New York Congressman Charlie Rangel. And now, Kosmas' financier is in even more hot water - Rangel has been called upon to step down from his position as House Ways and Means Chair by yet another major editorial board for his appalling disregard of the most basic ethical standards.
The Washington Post takes Rangel to task for a possible quid pro quo deal with a major donor:
“[The] latest revelation of Mr. Rangel’s ethical tin ear is the most galling yet. While he remains innocent until proven otherwise, he should step aside as chairman while the ethics committee expands its inquiry."
Read more here.
Washington- It’s no secret that Suzanne Kosmas' recent bid for a seat in Congress was bankrolled by the ethically tarnished New York Congressman Charlie Rangel. And now, Kosmas' financier is in even more hot water - Rangel has been called upon to step down from his position as House Ways and Means Chair by yet another major editorial board for his appalling disregard of the most basic ethical standards.
The Washington Post takes Rangel to task for a possible quid pro quo deal with a major donor:
“[The] latest revelation of Mr. Rangel’s ethical tin ear is the most galling yet. While he remains innocent until proven otherwise, he should step aside as chairman while the ethics committee expands its inquiry."
Read more here.
Mortgage Lenders Answer Governor Crist's Call for Foreclosure Relief During Holidays
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist joined representatives of the banking and mortgage lending industry to announce a voluntary agreement to provide foreclosure relief to Florida homestead property owners for the next 45 days. Governor Crist encouraged lenders to continue their efforts to actively negotiate with struggling homeowners during the coming months to help people stay in their homes.
“I applaud these bankers and lenders for giving people hope during this challenging economic time,” Governor Crist said. “Struggling families and homeowners should rest easier during this holiday season, knowing that these lenders have heard the pleas of homeowners.”
Read more here
“I applaud these bankers and lenders for giving people hope during this challenging economic time,” Governor Crist said. “Struggling families and homeowners should rest easier during this holiday season, knowing that these lenders have heard the pleas of homeowners.”
Read more here
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Grateful this Thanksgiving
This Thanksgiving, we are first and foremost grateful for our friends and family and the men and women in uniform serving at home and abroad to defend the freedoms we hold dear and secure those freedoms for others.
Here at the RPOF we are also grateful for the many unforgettable events that we've been a part of over the past year or so--P4 and the FOX News debate, the CNN/YouTube debate, the FAU debate, Florida's historic 1/29 primary, the Black Republican Conference and the Hispanic Leadership Conference, the Republican National Convention and the launch of the Conventional Wisdom blog, and the Presidential campaign in Florida, to name a few...
It's been an exciting year and we look forward to politics in 2009!
Here at the RPOF we are also grateful for the many unforgettable events that we've been a part of over the past year or so--P4 and the FOX News debate, the CNN/YouTube debate, the FAU debate, Florida's historic 1/29 primary, the Black Republican Conference and the Hispanic Leadership Conference, the Republican National Convention and the launch of the Conventional Wisdom blog, and the Presidential campaign in Florida, to name a few...
It's been an exciting year and we look forward to politics in 2009!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Republicans Tightening Government’s Belt in Tough Economic Times
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2008
CONTACT: Alberto Martinez
(850) 488-1993
MAJORITY LEADER HASNER PRAISESPRESIDENT ATWATER, SPEAKER SANSOM’S FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE DECISION
~Leaders Eliminate CBIR Earmarks for Next Florida Budget~
TALLAHASSEE, FL – House Majority Leader Adam Hasner (R-Delray Beach) today praised Senate President Jeff Atwater (R-Palm Beach) and House Speaker Ray Sansom (R-Destin) on their joint announcement that both chambers will not have Community Budget Issue Requests (CBIRs) in the next Florida budget.
“Today’s announcement by Senate President Atwater and House Speaker Sansom regarding their joint decision to forgo CBIR earmarks in the budget underscores their commitment to put fiscal responsibility and the economic well-being of Floridians at the top of their agendas,” stated Leader Hasner. “I commend President Atwater and Speaker Sansom for their commitment.”
“We understand that every dollar is precious and must be spent wisely. We are committed to taking serious action to deal with a serious budget problem. President Atwater and Speaker Sansom are leading the charge as we take on wasteful and excessive spending in the system by eliminating earmarks like the CBIRs and reducing government inefficiency. Floridians can be confident that their leadership is taking a common-sense approach to getting Florida’s economy going again,” concluded Leader Hasner.
# # #
November 19, 2008
CONTACT: Alberto Martinez
(850) 488-1993
MAJORITY LEADER HASNER PRAISESPRESIDENT ATWATER, SPEAKER SANSOM’S FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE DECISION
~Leaders Eliminate CBIR Earmarks for Next Florida Budget~
TALLAHASSEE, FL – House Majority Leader Adam Hasner (R-Delray Beach) today praised Senate President Jeff Atwater (R-Palm Beach) and House Speaker Ray Sansom (R-Destin) on their joint announcement that both chambers will not have Community Budget Issue Requests (CBIRs) in the next Florida budget.
“Today’s announcement by Senate President Atwater and House Speaker Sansom regarding their joint decision to forgo CBIR earmarks in the budget underscores their commitment to put fiscal responsibility and the economic well-being of Floridians at the top of their agendas,” stated Leader Hasner. “I commend President Atwater and Speaker Sansom for their commitment.”
“We understand that every dollar is precious and must be spent wisely. We are committed to taking serious action to deal with a serious budget problem. President Atwater and Speaker Sansom are leading the charge as we take on wasteful and excessive spending in the system by eliminating earmarks like the CBIRs and reducing government inefficiency. Floridians can be confident that their leadership is taking a common-sense approach to getting Florida’s economy going again,” concluded Leader Hasner.
# # #
Governor Crist Joins Governors, International Leaders to Address Global Climate Change
Governor Charlie Crist, continuing his leadership role in addressing global climate change, joined California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in co-hosting United States governors and international leaders in calling for collaborative action across the globe in the fight against climate change. The Governors' Global Climate Summit, held in Los Angeles on November 18 and 19, focuses on creative, collaborative actions to advance the global climate agreement to reduce greenhouse gas. The summit also provides an opportunity for states and provinces to partner to reduce emissions and grow our green economies.
“Florida’s rapid progress has been possible only through partnership agreements with the United Kingdom and Germany, and with the help of my good friend, Governor Schwarzenegger,” Governor Crist said. “This progress does not come at the expense of future economic growth, but rather as a necessity to the future prosperity of our nations and states.”
Governor Crist has hosted Serve to Preserve Florida Summits on Global Climate Change in 2007 and 2008. Since signing three executive orders in 2007 to reduce Florida’s greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and remove market barriers for renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind energy, Florida has stepped onto the world stage as a major marketplace for advanced energy technologies.
“Florida’s rapid progress has been possible only through partnership agreements with the United Kingdom and Germany, and with the help of my good friend, Governor Schwarzenegger,” Governor Crist said. “This progress does not come at the expense of future economic growth, but rather as a necessity to the future prosperity of our nations and states.”
Governor Crist has hosted Serve to Preserve Florida Summits on Global Climate Change in 2007 and 2008. Since signing three executive orders in 2007 to reduce Florida’s greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and remove market barriers for renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind energy, Florida has stepped onto the world stage as a major marketplace for advanced energy technologies.
Statement by NRCC Chairman Tom Cole
NRCC Chairman Cole released the following statement today:
I want to congratulate Pete Sessions on his election as the next Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. It has been my great privilege to serve as Chairman of the NRCC, and I wish my friend Pete every success. While the past two years brought many challenges to this Committee, I was honored every step of the way to be able to serve my colleagues and my Party. To the legions of conservatives throughout America who dedicated their time and resources to helping the NRCC elect Republicans to Congress this year, I am truly grateful. I also want to thank my staff at the NRCC. They have done a tremendous job and I will always remember their dedication and their professionalism. As a new team takes the reigns of this Committee next year, I look forward to helping make their transition seamless.
####
I want to congratulate Pete Sessions on his election as the next Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. It has been my great privilege to serve as Chairman of the NRCC, and I wish my friend Pete every success. While the past two years brought many challenges to this Committee, I was honored every step of the way to be able to serve my colleagues and my Party. To the legions of conservatives throughout America who dedicated their time and resources to helping the NRCC elect Republicans to Congress this year, I am truly grateful. I also want to thank my staff at the NRCC. They have done a tremendous job and I will always remember their dedication and their professionalism. As a new team takes the reigns of this Committee next year, I look forward to helping make their transition seamless.
####
New Florida House speaker urges humility to lawmakers
By Michael C. Bender, Palm Beach Post
TALLAHASSEE — Raymond Edward Sansom of Destin ushered in the 13th consecutive year of Republican rule in the Florida House on Tuesday, urging his fellow lawmakers to remain humble in their work, hungry for knowledge and loyal to their voters back home.
"The answers are not found in the four walls of this chamber," Sansom, 46, said a unanimous House vote to elect him speaker. "The answers are found out throughout all of our districts. They're found in the small businesses and around the board rooms."
TALLAHASSEE — Raymond Edward Sansom of Destin ushered in the 13th consecutive year of Republican rule in the Florida House on Tuesday, urging his fellow lawmakers to remain humble in their work, hungry for knowledge and loyal to their voters back home.
"The answers are not found in the four walls of this chamber," Sansom, 46, said a unanimous House vote to elect him speaker. "The answers are found out throughout all of our districts. They're found in the small businesses and around the board rooms."
North Palm Beach's Atwater takes over state Senate
By Dara Kam, Palm Beach Post
TALLAHASSEE — Jeff Atwater took up the gavel as Florida's 83rd Senate president today, prolonging Palm Beach County leadership of the legislature's upper chamber for at least two more years.
Atwater now commands a Senate in which fellow Republicans outnumber Democrats 26-14 but at a time in which the state is facing some of its bleakest financial conditions in recent history, an issue certain to dominate Atwater's tenure at least in the short-term.
TALLAHASSEE — Jeff Atwater took up the gavel as Florida's 83rd Senate president today, prolonging Palm Beach County leadership of the legislature's upper chamber for at least two more years.
Atwater now commands a Senate in which fellow Republicans outnumber Democrats 26-14 but at a time in which the state is facing some of its bleakest financial conditions in recent history, an issue certain to dominate Atwater's tenure at least in the short-term.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Sen. Jeff Atwater elected Senate president
By Jennier Liberto, St. Pete Times
Sen. Jeff Atwater will take the gavel as the next president of the Florida Senate, and he thanked his colleagues today for the honor.
Atwater praised Gov. Charlie Crist, Speaker Ray Sansom and his family.
Sen. Jeff Atwater will take the gavel as the next president of the Florida Senate, and he thanked his colleagues today for the honor.
Atwater praised Gov. Charlie Crist, Speaker Ray Sansom and his family.
Florida House Speaker Ray Sansom
By Michael C. Bender, Palm Beach Post
The Florida House today unanimously voted Ray Sansom of Destin as the chamber’s seventh consecutive Republican speaker, a powerful position that will set half of the state’s legislative agenda of the next two years.
The Florida House today unanimously voted Ray Sansom of Destin as the chamber’s seventh consecutive Republican speaker, a powerful position that will set half of the state’s legislative agenda of the next two years.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Treasure Coast Republicans Posey, Rooney ready to be fresh faces in Congress
By Jim Turner, TC Palm
November 17, 2008
The Treasure Coast's new congressmen bring differing backgrounds with them to Washington, D.C.
One is a veteran state and municipal lawmaker who worked at the Kennedy Space Center during the Apollo era. The other is a first-time politician with a background in law, the military and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
But both will be stepping into offices on the side of the aisle where they will have to work with and act as a check-and-balance to the majority party.
Republicans Bill Posey, 61, of Rockledge and Tom Rooney, 37, of Tequesta are to be the new faces of the Treasure Coast in Congress.
Posey's district covers all of Indian River County. Rooney's district has the bulk of the populated portions of Martin and St. Lucie counties.
Both are heading to Washington with Congress dominated by Democrats and a Democrat moving into the White House.
"If you're a Republican and a freshman member, you basically have no power at all," said Richard Semiatin, a government professor at American University in Washington, D.C.
That doesn't worry Posey or Rooney.
Posey started his Florida legislative career in 1992 in the same position.
"I don't call myself a maverick, but I've got a good, solid track record of working with both sides," said Posey, who is replacing Dave Weldon, a Republican who has been in the House since 1994.
Posey said he and Weldon, a longtime friend, talked for several hours after the Nov. 4 election, but Posey revealed few details about the discussion, which did include talk of potential committee assignments.
Posey listed the economy and addressing the problems on Wall Street as top priorities.
Posey said he wants to see more accountability and transparency in government spending. He also wants to see Congress work toward balancing the budget.
Rooney, a former Army JAG officer who taught at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, said he doesn't plan to sacrifice his conservative values, but he also doesn't intend to head to Washington with an "us against them" mind-set.
"I think this is an exciting time in this country — the people voted for change. Even though I'm in the minority, I'm very excited about working across party lines," he said. "There is a reason why the Congress' approval rating is below 20 percent, and I think a lot of it has to do with the partisan nature and not getting anything done."
Part of the reason he believes he can work across party lines is that he already has a friend in Congress, U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy, D-Pa., who was a West Point instructor with Rooney before he ran for Congress in 2006.
"There are a lot of times while running for Congress where it's hard on you personally and on your family," Rooney said. "The fact that Patrick went through this two years before I did, it made life easier knowing that if he could do it, I could do it."
The biggest learning curve will be the system.
"What a freshman member will learn when they get up here is, 'Oh, my God. I've got so much to learn.' It's not just the policy stuff; it's the process," Semiatin said.
That's not to say they will be the least effective members, he said. Congressional leaders recognize freshmen lawmakers are vulnerable and will make concerted efforts to help them push pet projects.
"They know that bringing home projects and grants is more critical than it is for veterans very ensconced in their district," Semiatin said.
Even though he will be in the minority, Rooney said he intends to work as hard as previous district representatives. He also plans to seek appointments to House committees on armed services, energy and agriculture. With the district cutting across the central part of the state, the sitting and two prior congressmen representing the district all have sat on the agriculture committee.
"I'm not a farmer, but I definitely feel an obligation to the district. It's so agriculture that it should have representation," Rooney said.
November 17, 2008
The Treasure Coast's new congressmen bring differing backgrounds with them to Washington, D.C.
One is a veteran state and municipal lawmaker who worked at the Kennedy Space Center during the Apollo era. The other is a first-time politician with a background in law, the military and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
But both will be stepping into offices on the side of the aisle where they will have to work with and act as a check-and-balance to the majority party.
Republicans Bill Posey, 61, of Rockledge and Tom Rooney, 37, of Tequesta are to be the new faces of the Treasure Coast in Congress.
Posey's district covers all of Indian River County. Rooney's district has the bulk of the populated portions of Martin and St. Lucie counties.
Both are heading to Washington with Congress dominated by Democrats and a Democrat moving into the White House.
"If you're a Republican and a freshman member, you basically have no power at all," said Richard Semiatin, a government professor at American University in Washington, D.C.
That doesn't worry Posey or Rooney.
Posey started his Florida legislative career in 1992 in the same position.
"I don't call myself a maverick, but I've got a good, solid track record of working with both sides," said Posey, who is replacing Dave Weldon, a Republican who has been in the House since 1994.
Posey said he and Weldon, a longtime friend, talked for several hours after the Nov. 4 election, but Posey revealed few details about the discussion, which did include talk of potential committee assignments.
Posey listed the economy and addressing the problems on Wall Street as top priorities.
Posey said he wants to see more accountability and transparency in government spending. He also wants to see Congress work toward balancing the budget.
Rooney, a former Army JAG officer who taught at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, said he doesn't plan to sacrifice his conservative values, but he also doesn't intend to head to Washington with an "us against them" mind-set.
"I think this is an exciting time in this country — the people voted for change. Even though I'm in the minority, I'm very excited about working across party lines," he said. "There is a reason why the Congress' approval rating is below 20 percent, and I think a lot of it has to do with the partisan nature and not getting anything done."
Part of the reason he believes he can work across party lines is that he already has a friend in Congress, U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy, D-Pa., who was a West Point instructor with Rooney before he ran for Congress in 2006.
"There are a lot of times while running for Congress where it's hard on you personally and on your family," Rooney said. "The fact that Patrick went through this two years before I did, it made life easier knowing that if he could do it, I could do it."
The biggest learning curve will be the system.
"What a freshman member will learn when they get up here is, 'Oh, my God. I've got so much to learn.' It's not just the policy stuff; it's the process," Semiatin said.
That's not to say they will be the least effective members, he said. Congressional leaders recognize freshmen lawmakers are vulnerable and will make concerted efforts to help them push pet projects.
"They know that bringing home projects and grants is more critical than it is for veterans very ensconced in their district," Semiatin said.
Even though he will be in the minority, Rooney said he intends to work as hard as previous district representatives. He also plans to seek appointments to House committees on armed services, energy and agriculture. With the district cutting across the central part of the state, the sitting and two prior congressmen representing the district all have sat on the agriculture committee.
"I'm not a farmer, but I definitely feel an obligation to the district. It's so agriculture that it should have representation," Rooney said.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Back in Tallahassee, Crist keeps eye on GOP's national outlook
Josh Hafenbrack | Tallahassee Bureau
November 13, 2008
TALLAHASSEE
After a wild ride of an election season that took him from John McCain's Arizona ranch to Old Europe, Gov. Charlie Crist is in the midst of a quick rise to the national stage, proposing a distinctive blend of sunny, pocketbook-driven politics as Republicans plot a way back to power. Could it be the right message for a party demoralized in the election?
With the Republican Governors Association meeting in Miami today, the potential future faces of the GOP, from Crist to Alaska's Sarah Palin, will be on hand weighing how to regain Republican footing in an era of Barack Obama's presidency.
Crist's centrist message, though, might appeal more to independents and Democrats than some Republicans, especially in light of quiet grumbling that's spread through conservative ranks over whether he did enough to help the presidential ticket carry a crucial swing state.
"We just need to be inclusive, we need to reach out, and do a better job leading by approaching issues with a common-sense view," Crist told the (Fort Lauderdale) Sun Sentinel in an interview Wednesday.
"What people care about, first and foremost, is their pocketbook."
The new national profile comes at a dicey time for Crist, with unprecedented challenges waiting in Tallahassee. After cutting $6 billion in state spending in the past year, Florida's budget is leaking billions more.
And the governor's personal life is a public curiosity. A month from now, Florida's first bachelor governor in four decades is planning to marry Manhattan businesswoman and philanthropist Carole Rome, in a small ceremony in Crist's hometown of St. Petersburg. The honeymoon is set for southwest Florida.
Crist, who was on the short list for McCain's vice-presidential slot that went to Palin, has tried to project himself as a leader with reach beyond Florida's borders. During the summer, he took his third trip overseas with a trade mission that included stops in Paris, London and Russia. Last month, he quietly met for dinner with Gen. David Petraeus, mastermind of the Iraq troop surge.
"The governor's not looking to be a national figure," said Brian Ballard, a lobbyist and close adviser. "It comes or it doesn't come based on performance" in the Governor's Mansion.
Still, Crist has a clear vision for a new GOP national strategy, one that pushes divisive social causes to the side and embraces diversity. The party needs to do a better job reaching out to black and Hispanic voters, Crist said. He noted the Republican rhetoric on illegal immigration was "less than friendly, shall we say" -- an assessment that hardly will endear Crist to the party's right wing.
"As the grandson of Greek immigrants, I'm very sympathetic that we're more inclusive, that we embrace others with open arms and continue to lead with a caring heart," he said. "That's what the Republican Party -- the party of Lincoln -- should be all about."
The ever-optimistic governor said the bipartisan spirit he has tried to foster in Florida could be emulated on the national stage, noting that he consulted Wednesday with a leading Democrat, state Sen.-elect Dan Gelber, on education funding.
Florida's budget woes present Crist with difficult choices. He has resisted new taxes; yet without new revenues, public schools could face damaging cuts. Either route carries political risks.
Floridians "want us to work together and do what's right," Crist said of his budget strategy session with Gelber, of Miami Beach. "They don't really care who wins the political battle of the day."
"We might be getting close to 10 percent unemployment in Florida," added Gelber. "We've never had the declining revenues we've had. I think this is really going to be a test for the state."
At the Capitol, Crist faces some tough tests, from fixing Florida's economy to mending a few fences among his party's conservative ranks to positioning for his 2010 re-election bid.
While the governor's loyalists are dismissive of unrest in the party, conservative activists think Crist hurt McCain's chances at key moments in the campaign, like when he extended early voting.
"There's a perpetual struggle between being the governor for everyone and pleasing the base," said outgoing House Speaker Marco Rubio, R-West Miami, a conservative who battled Crist on issues from gambling to taxes.
If Crist manages the minefield ahead, what about a 2012 run for the White House? The governor demurred. "My job is to think about the people of Florida every day when I get up," he said.
November 13, 2008
TALLAHASSEE
After a wild ride of an election season that took him from John McCain's Arizona ranch to Old Europe, Gov. Charlie Crist is in the midst of a quick rise to the national stage, proposing a distinctive blend of sunny, pocketbook-driven politics as Republicans plot a way back to power. Could it be the right message for a party demoralized in the election?
With the Republican Governors Association meeting in Miami today, the potential future faces of the GOP, from Crist to Alaska's Sarah Palin, will be on hand weighing how to regain Republican footing in an era of Barack Obama's presidency.
Crist's centrist message, though, might appeal more to independents and Democrats than some Republicans, especially in light of quiet grumbling that's spread through conservative ranks over whether he did enough to help the presidential ticket carry a crucial swing state.
"We just need to be inclusive, we need to reach out, and do a better job leading by approaching issues with a common-sense view," Crist told the (Fort Lauderdale) Sun Sentinel in an interview Wednesday.
"What people care about, first and foremost, is their pocketbook."
The new national profile comes at a dicey time for Crist, with unprecedented challenges waiting in Tallahassee. After cutting $6 billion in state spending in the past year, Florida's budget is leaking billions more.
And the governor's personal life is a public curiosity. A month from now, Florida's first bachelor governor in four decades is planning to marry Manhattan businesswoman and philanthropist Carole Rome, in a small ceremony in Crist's hometown of St. Petersburg. The honeymoon is set for southwest Florida.
Crist, who was on the short list for McCain's vice-presidential slot that went to Palin, has tried to project himself as a leader with reach beyond Florida's borders. During the summer, he took his third trip overseas with a trade mission that included stops in Paris, London and Russia. Last month, he quietly met for dinner with Gen. David Petraeus, mastermind of the Iraq troop surge.
"The governor's not looking to be a national figure," said Brian Ballard, a lobbyist and close adviser. "It comes or it doesn't come based on performance" in the Governor's Mansion.
Still, Crist has a clear vision for a new GOP national strategy, one that pushes divisive social causes to the side and embraces diversity. The party needs to do a better job reaching out to black and Hispanic voters, Crist said. He noted the Republican rhetoric on illegal immigration was "less than friendly, shall we say" -- an assessment that hardly will endear Crist to the party's right wing.
"As the grandson of Greek immigrants, I'm very sympathetic that we're more inclusive, that we embrace others with open arms and continue to lead with a caring heart," he said. "That's what the Republican Party -- the party of Lincoln -- should be all about."
The ever-optimistic governor said the bipartisan spirit he has tried to foster in Florida could be emulated on the national stage, noting that he consulted Wednesday with a leading Democrat, state Sen.-elect Dan Gelber, on education funding.
Florida's budget woes present Crist with difficult choices. He has resisted new taxes; yet without new revenues, public schools could face damaging cuts. Either route carries political risks.
Floridians "want us to work together and do what's right," Crist said of his budget strategy session with Gelber, of Miami Beach. "They don't really care who wins the political battle of the day."
"We might be getting close to 10 percent unemployment in Florida," added Gelber. "We've never had the declining revenues we've had. I think this is really going to be a test for the state."
At the Capitol, Crist faces some tough tests, from fixing Florida's economy to mending a few fences among his party's conservative ranks to positioning for his 2010 re-election bid.
While the governor's loyalists are dismissive of unrest in the party, conservative activists think Crist hurt McCain's chances at key moments in the campaign, like when he extended early voting.
"There's a perpetual struggle between being the governor for everyone and pleasing the base," said outgoing House Speaker Marco Rubio, R-West Miami, a conservative who battled Crist on issues from gambling to taxes.
If Crist manages the minefield ahead, what about a 2012 run for the White House? The governor demurred. "My job is to think about the people of Florida every day when I get up," he said.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Sasso stint ends as quickly as it began
BY MICHELLE SPITZER • FLORIDA TODAY • November 8, 2008
Democrat Tony Sasso's stint as House District 32 representative ended about eight months after he took office, when he narrowly lost his bid for re-election Tuesday.
Republican Steve Crisafulli of Merritt Island defeated Sasso, 52.2 percent to 47.8 percent, in a district that includes parts of southeast Orange County and the northern part of Brevard County, including NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
Sasso blamed his loss in part on Republican presidential candidate John McCain's strong showing in Brevard and on Crisafulli's more than $193,000 lead in campaign contributions.
But Sasso, 55, who served on the Cocoa Beach City Commission from 2001 to 2007, said the political door is not necessarily closed.
"If a door of opportunity opens in the future, I may step through," the Cocoa Beach resident said. "I will certainly continue to be very active in my community, working with Boy Scouts and on various boards."
Sasso held the office since he was sworn in on March 4, after he won a special election to replace Bob Allen, who resigned from his seat after he was convicted of soliciting oral sex from an undercover officer in a Titusville park.
By a margin of 48 percent to 46 percent, Sasso defeated Republican Sean Campbell of Merritt Island, who spent more money and received significant financial backing from his party.
Sasso's win in that Feb. 26 election was considered an upset in a district in which there are more Republicans than Democrats. A third candidate got about 6 percent of the vote.
This time, Sasso said he thinks a key issue in his defeat was that McCain received the majority of the votes in Brevard in the presidential race. Sasso said he thinks many McCain supporters also voted for other Republicans on the ballot.
"I think a lot of people just went down the ticket and voted Republican," he said. "I wish they would have looked at the issues a little bit more."
In addition, Crisafulli raised twice as much money as Sasso did during the campaign.
"I was told early -- when I was still in Tallahassee and he (Crisafulli) became tagged -- at that time, I had heard numbers that between half a million and a million dollars would be spent on this campaign," Sasso said.
"It makes a big difference when you have that much money and you have more television ads running in Orlando and Brevard County. There were no bones about it. This was their No. 1 targeted seat."
While Sasso got 44 percent of the votes in Brevard, he received 56 percent of the votes in the Orange County portion of the district, which is more heavily Democratic, but is a smaller part of the district.
Sasso, a marine engineer, teamed with Florida Sen. Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, in helping to pass the Clean Ocean Act that bans gambling ships sailing from Port Canaveral and other Florida ports from dumping waste offshore.
He also advocated for space-related bills critical to Brevard's economic future, including a $15 million investment package for space infrastructure, specifically to refurbish a launch complex at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in an effort to attract private launch companies.
In the next several weeks, Sasso plans to get reacquainted with his wife and two sons, "squeeze myself through the jungle in the backyard," he said, and help his former opponent make the transition.
Sasso said he offered to meet with Crisafulli and fill him in on any unfinished business.
It's an offer Crisafulli, 37, said he welcomes.
"I don't want to lose any people in the shuffle," Crisafulli said. "It's important that we work together."
Crisafulli, a fourth-generation Brevard resident, is vice president of his family's business that involves cattle, citrus and real estate.
Although his family has been a staple on the Space Coast for decades, Crisafulli said the Republican presence in the area was a big help in his victory.
"For the most part, our Republican stronghold carried us through, although it was a little closer than we obviously wanted it to be," he said.
He is gearing up for new-member orientation next week in Tallahassee, starting the transition process and attempting to win over detractors.
"Let them take the opportunity to follow me through for the next couple years, watch me and see if I'm making a difference," Crisafulli said. "I'm going to fight for everyone, regardless of if they voted for me."
As a first-time elected official, he knows there are challenges ahead.
He is counting on his experience in business and his connection to the community to help.
The biggest issue he sees in Tallahassee is the budget, but he also wants to concentrate on economic development and on bringing more jobs to the area.
"It's going to be a tough couple years because of the budget, but with tough decisions and challenges come great opportunity, and I'm up for the challenge," Crisafulli said.
http://www.floridatoday.com/article/20081108/NEWS01/811080319/1006&referrer=NEWSFRONTCAROUSEL
Democrat Tony Sasso's stint as House District 32 representative ended about eight months after he took office, when he narrowly lost his bid for re-election Tuesday.
Republican Steve Crisafulli of Merritt Island defeated Sasso, 52.2 percent to 47.8 percent, in a district that includes parts of southeast Orange County and the northern part of Brevard County, including NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
Sasso blamed his loss in part on Republican presidential candidate John McCain's strong showing in Brevard and on Crisafulli's more than $193,000 lead in campaign contributions.
But Sasso, 55, who served on the Cocoa Beach City Commission from 2001 to 2007, said the political door is not necessarily closed.
"If a door of opportunity opens in the future, I may step through," the Cocoa Beach resident said. "I will certainly continue to be very active in my community, working with Boy Scouts and on various boards."
Sasso held the office since he was sworn in on March 4, after he won a special election to replace Bob Allen, who resigned from his seat after he was convicted of soliciting oral sex from an undercover officer in a Titusville park.
By a margin of 48 percent to 46 percent, Sasso defeated Republican Sean Campbell of Merritt Island, who spent more money and received significant financial backing from his party.
Sasso's win in that Feb. 26 election was considered an upset in a district in which there are more Republicans than Democrats. A third candidate got about 6 percent of the vote.
This time, Sasso said he thinks a key issue in his defeat was that McCain received the majority of the votes in Brevard in the presidential race. Sasso said he thinks many McCain supporters also voted for other Republicans on the ballot.
"I think a lot of people just went down the ticket and voted Republican," he said. "I wish they would have looked at the issues a little bit more."
In addition, Crisafulli raised twice as much money as Sasso did during the campaign.
"I was told early -- when I was still in Tallahassee and he (Crisafulli) became tagged -- at that time, I had heard numbers that between half a million and a million dollars would be spent on this campaign," Sasso said.
"It makes a big difference when you have that much money and you have more television ads running in Orlando and Brevard County. There were no bones about it. This was their No. 1 targeted seat."
While Sasso got 44 percent of the votes in Brevard, he received 56 percent of the votes in the Orange County portion of the district, which is more heavily Democratic, but is a smaller part of the district.
Sasso, a marine engineer, teamed with Florida Sen. Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, in helping to pass the Clean Ocean Act that bans gambling ships sailing from Port Canaveral and other Florida ports from dumping waste offshore.
He also advocated for space-related bills critical to Brevard's economic future, including a $15 million investment package for space infrastructure, specifically to refurbish a launch complex at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in an effort to attract private launch companies.
In the next several weeks, Sasso plans to get reacquainted with his wife and two sons, "squeeze myself through the jungle in the backyard," he said, and help his former opponent make the transition.
Sasso said he offered to meet with Crisafulli and fill him in on any unfinished business.
It's an offer Crisafulli, 37, said he welcomes.
"I don't want to lose any people in the shuffle," Crisafulli said. "It's important that we work together."
Crisafulli, a fourth-generation Brevard resident, is vice president of his family's business that involves cattle, citrus and real estate.
Although his family has been a staple on the Space Coast for decades, Crisafulli said the Republican presence in the area was a big help in his victory.
"For the most part, our Republican stronghold carried us through, although it was a little closer than we obviously wanted it to be," he said.
He is gearing up for new-member orientation next week in Tallahassee, starting the transition process and attempting to win over detractors.
"Let them take the opportunity to follow me through for the next couple years, watch me and see if I'm making a difference," Crisafulli said. "I'm going to fight for everyone, regardless of if they voted for me."
As a first-time elected official, he knows there are challenges ahead.
He is counting on his experience in business and his connection to the community to help.
The biggest issue he sees in Tallahassee is the budget, but he also wants to concentrate on economic development and on bringing more jobs to the area.
"It's going to be a tough couple years because of the budget, but with tough decisions and challenges come great opportunity, and I'm up for the challenge," Crisafulli said.
http://www.floridatoday.com/article/20081108/NEWS01/811080319/1006&referrer=NEWSFRONTCAROUSEL
Florida Democrats flub chance to gain seats in Legislature
By Steve Bousquet, Times columnist
In print: Saturday, November 8, 2008
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/article895096.ece
As Barack Obama surged to victory in Florida on Tuesday, the state's familiar outline turned a bright blue on the cable networks' maps.
Do not adjust your set: Florida is just as red as ever in Tallahassee, where vital decisions are made on taxes, spending and the shape of 160 legislative and 25 (soon to be 26) congressional districts.
So even as Florida Democrats toasted Obama's historic victory, they were flogging themselves over a missed opportunity that may not come their way again — and rightfully so. They had a chance to make much-needed gains in the Legislature, and they didn't, and that has consequences for the party and the state.
Republicans control the Senate, 26-14, and the House, 76-44, with two Democratic House seats possibly headed for machine recounts.
The Senate's partisan makeup remains unchanged. The House, with its smaller districts and more strident partisanship, is where Democrats dreamed of gaining three to six seats.
They got one. But for a few hundred votes, they would have lost two others — and this in an election with Obama atop the ticket.
How could this happen?
Several factors are to blame, starting with the absence of strategist Steve Schale, who was busy running Obama's Florida effort. (He helped Democrats capture nine House seats in the past two years).
House Democrats, under the inexperienced leadership of Minority Leader Franklin Sands, seem to have spread their money too thin in many races, rather than focusing on a handful where their chances were best.
How do we know this? In nine House races, five of which were for open seats with no incumbent, the losing Democrat got between 47 and 49 percent of the vote. More money, more effort, and the result might have been different.
Some Democrats had suggested a "Don't Stop at the Top" campaign aimed at getting young voters and first-timers to pick Democrats all the way down the ticket. But outside of Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties, it didn't happen.
That's an embarrassing string of near-misses, including the North Pinellas seat where Republican Peter Nehr won his close rematch with Democrat Carl Zimmermann.
We're left with a Legislature that's more conservative than the state as a whole, according to Florida State University political scientist Lance deHaven-Smith. He said it's the logical result of gerrymandered districts drawn for maximum partisan advantage.
"The districts are such that it's very hard to knock off an incumbent, Democrat or Republican," he said. "They can do it with great precision to protect incumbents."
That's not how Rep. Ray Sansom, R-Destin, the new House speaker, sees it.
"I think we have momentum back on the Republican side," he said. "Florida is still very conservative."
The inability of Democrats to flip more than one seat allows Republican leaders to engage in the kind of spin that House Majority Leader Adam Hasner did after the polls closed: "Floridians spoke clearly that the House's agenda is the right agenda for Florida," which he defined, in part, as "lower taxes and fiscal discipline."
For Democrats in the Florida House, it's going to be a long couple of years.
In print: Saturday, November 8, 2008
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/article895096.ece
As Barack Obama surged to victory in Florida on Tuesday, the state's familiar outline turned a bright blue on the cable networks' maps.
Do not adjust your set: Florida is just as red as ever in Tallahassee, where vital decisions are made on taxes, spending and the shape of 160 legislative and 25 (soon to be 26) congressional districts.
So even as Florida Democrats toasted Obama's historic victory, they were flogging themselves over a missed opportunity that may not come their way again — and rightfully so. They had a chance to make much-needed gains in the Legislature, and they didn't, and that has consequences for the party and the state.
Republicans control the Senate, 26-14, and the House, 76-44, with two Democratic House seats possibly headed for machine recounts.
The Senate's partisan makeup remains unchanged. The House, with its smaller districts and more strident partisanship, is where Democrats dreamed of gaining three to six seats.
They got one. But for a few hundred votes, they would have lost two others — and this in an election with Obama atop the ticket.
How could this happen?
Several factors are to blame, starting with the absence of strategist Steve Schale, who was busy running Obama's Florida effort. (He helped Democrats capture nine House seats in the past two years).
House Democrats, under the inexperienced leadership of Minority Leader Franklin Sands, seem to have spread their money too thin in many races, rather than focusing on a handful where their chances were best.
How do we know this? In nine House races, five of which were for open seats with no incumbent, the losing Democrat got between 47 and 49 percent of the vote. More money, more effort, and the result might have been different.
Some Democrats had suggested a "Don't Stop at the Top" campaign aimed at getting young voters and first-timers to pick Democrats all the way down the ticket. But outside of Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties, it didn't happen.
That's an embarrassing string of near-misses, including the North Pinellas seat where Republican Peter Nehr won his close rematch with Democrat Carl Zimmermann.
We're left with a Legislature that's more conservative than the state as a whole, according to Florida State University political scientist Lance deHaven-Smith. He said it's the logical result of gerrymandered districts drawn for maximum partisan advantage.
"The districts are such that it's very hard to knock off an incumbent, Democrat or Republican," he said. "They can do it with great precision to protect incumbents."
That's not how Rep. Ray Sansom, R-Destin, the new House speaker, sees it.
"I think we have momentum back on the Republican side," he said. "Florida is still very conservative."
The inability of Democrats to flip more than one seat allows Republican leaders to engage in the kind of spin that House Majority Leader Adam Hasner did after the polls closed: "Floridians spoke clearly that the House's agenda is the right agenda for Florida," which he defined, in part, as "lower taxes and fiscal discipline."
For Democrats in the Florida House, it's going to be a long couple of years.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Democrats blew it in Florida
We couldn't have put it better ourselves! Adam Smith of the St. Pete Times explains the Florida Democrats' failure to capitalize on the Obama wave.
Democrats blew it in Florida?
The biggest surprise in Tuesday's results may be how poorly -- other than Barack Obama (all hail Steve Schale!) -- Florida Democrats performed despite the Obama juggernaut helping turn out votes.
They netted one Congressional seat and showed that Democrats can compete well in heavily Cuban-American districts. But despite the anti-GOP climate, they did not pick off a single incumbent Republican in the Legislature and ultimately may net just one state House seat. Two words: Pa Thetic.
And gloomy Republicans today can find plenty of reasons for solace: On Constitutional amendments, Floridians voted strongly to cut taxes, ban gay marriage and oppose tax increases for community colleges.
There's no real evidence of a Democratic tide in Florida.
Democrats blew it in Florida?
The biggest surprise in Tuesday's results may be how poorly -- other than Barack Obama (all hail Steve Schale!) -- Florida Democrats performed despite the Obama juggernaut helping turn out votes.
They netted one Congressional seat and showed that Democrats can compete well in heavily Cuban-American districts. But despite the anti-GOP climate, they did not pick off a single incumbent Republican in the Legislature and ultimately may net just one state House seat. Two words: Pa Thetic.
And gloomy Republicans today can find plenty of reasons for solace: On Constitutional amendments, Floridians voted strongly to cut taxes, ban gay marriage and oppose tax increases for community colleges.
There's no real evidence of a Democratic tide in Florida.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Sunday, November 2, 2008
NYT Talks to Orlando Republicans
By Damien Cave, New York Times
November 2, 2008
Lew Oliver’s McCain-Palin T-shirt advertised his intentions, and the woman in the S.U.V. gave him an opening. “I’m undecided,” said Nicole Ellington, 31, a paralegal with two young children. “You have two minutes. Go.”
Mr. Oliver knew that her family leaned Republican because she was on his get-out-the-vote list, and he rapidly delivered a pitch honed over 22 years of volunteering for local campaigns. “Wow, you’re good,” she said. And as she drove away, Mr. Oliver smiled with satisfaction.
...
To View This Entire Article, Click Here.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Governor Palin's Florida Blitz
Governor Sarah Palin Campaigns in Polk City, Florida
Photos Courtesy of the Orlando Sentinel
Voter Fraud Alert
Thousands of dead Floridians are registered to vote and some in Central Florida had ballots cast in their names long after their deaths.
“That is scary,” said Jim Branch.
Branch’s mother Marjorie died in 2004 but someone voted for her in 2006. Branch had tried to get his mother removed from the voter rolls.
“It was much easier for me calling Social Security and taking her off not getting any more checks here, than it was that (voter registration),” he sid (sic).
County records show James Santiago voted in the 2006 general election. He too, was dead. His wife, Joann, sees this as an open invitation for voter fraud.
“I think it leaves it open to sign his name, during an election, especially an important one like this year,” said Joann.
Channel Nine discovered 1,636 registered voters in Central Florida are dead.
“This is what makes Supervisors of Elections lose sleep at night,” said Volusia County Supervisor of Elections Ann McFall.
McFall said it used to be easy to clear out voter rolls.
“We had two people who did nothing but cut obituary notices out of the papers,” she said. “That’s how we found out someone died.”
To View, Click Here.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Country First
A few proud young Americans in Seminole County got together over the weekend and decided to do something positive to remind everyone that this is still the greatest nation on earth, the most generous nation on earth, the most free and prosperous nation and that John McCain will stand up for America.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Greer says Madison, Jefferson and the Gang Would Applaud Crist
The Herald Tribune's Joe Follick blogs:
Republican Party of Florida chairman Jim Greer had a short interview on MSNBC this afternoon where he defended Gov. Charlie Crist’s 180-degree switcheroo to expand early voting hours.
Greer was asked about an anonymous quote in Politico from a Florida Republican who said the move will cost McCain the election by expanding the ability of Democrats to vote.
“I don’t believe that. We shouldn’t be partisan when it comes to giving voters the opportunity to participate in the process. I know there are some that believe the governor’s actions yesterday to extend voting was not good for the Republican Party. I don’t buy that. I don’t think we’re going to see a greater number of voters coming to the polls,” Greer said, adding that the number of voters will stay the same even if the lines get shorter.
Republican Party of Florida chairman Jim Greer had a short interview on MSNBC this afternoon where he defended Gov. Charlie Crist’s 180-degree switcheroo to expand early voting hours.
Greer was asked about an anonymous quote in Politico from a Florida Republican who said the move will cost McCain the election by expanding the ability of Democrats to vote.
“I don’t believe that. We shouldn’t be partisan when it comes to giving voters the opportunity to participate in the process. I know there are some that believe the governor’s actions yesterday to extend voting was not good for the Republican Party. I don’t buy that. I don’t think we’re going to see a greater number of voters coming to the polls,” Greer said, adding that the number of voters will stay the same even if the lines get shorter.
“I think Gov. Crist’s actions yesterday would make our founding fathers quite proud,” he said.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
RPOF Statement on Jon Ausman Press Conference
Tallahassee—Republican Party of Florida Communications Director Erin VanSickle released the following statement today regarding Jon Ausman’s claim that the Supervisors of Elections in Pinellas and Manatee Counties are suppressing the vote:
“Jon Ausman’s political stunt today, while typical, is as deceptive as his claims are false. Florida's voters have unprecedented access to convenient ways to cast their vote, including 15 days to cast their vote in person and several weeks during which they may vote absentee in the comfort of their own homes. How is this suppressing the vote?
“Florida’s Supervisors of Elections were required to submit their Early Vote locations by October 5th. The law is plain and simple. Voters should question why Ausman is raising this question now, with just seven days until Election Day, instead of weighing in prior to the deadline.
“If voters in Manatee and Pinellas Counties do not want to participate in Early Voting for whatever reason, they can vote by mail or in person on Election Day. We don’t need a grand jury to tell us that, it is already in Florida law.”
The Future of CD-16: Tom Rooney
Today Candidate Tom Rooney launched the final commercial of his campaign for Florida’s 16th Congressional District. The spot titled “The Future” will run on broadcast television across the entire 16th district.
The commercial addresses how voters are tired of being misled by career politicians and Tom’s resolve to improve the economy and create new jobs. The spot also discusses Tom’s pledge to fight for seniors and veterans, and to not raise taxes. Tom Rooney will bring common sense leadership to Washington to tackle the
challenges we face today.
Tom Rooney served as a Captain in the U.S. Army as a JAG Officer, taught Constitutional and Military Law at
the United States Military Academy at West Point, was the CEO of Home Safe, a Palm Beach shelter for
abused children, and is running for the 16th Congressional District of Florida. For more information please visit www.tomrooney.com.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Chairman Greer on MSNBC
Watch RPOF Chairman Jim Greer discuss the state of the race in Florida on MSNBC.
Corruption
“Raul Martinez’s record of crooked and thug-like behavior has earned him the dubious honor of being named one of the most corrupt politicians in the state of Florida. The choice in this election couldn’t be any clearer.” – Ken Spain, NRCC Press Secretary
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Time: Governor Crist One of Five Most Important People in American Politics Today
Time's ubiqitous political analyst Mark Halperin lists Governor Crist as one of "The Five Most Important People in American Politics Not Running for President" list on today's The Page.
With less than ten days to go before Election Day, this illustrates once again the key role that Florida's Governor continues to play on the national stage.
With less than ten days to go before Election Day, this illustrates once again the key role that Florida's Governor continues to play on the national stage.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
AUDACITY WATCH: Obama Inaugural Address Already Written
“Mr. Podesta has been mapping out the transition so systematically that he has already written a draft Inaugural Address for Mr. Obama, which he published this summer in a book called ‘The Power of Progress.’ The speech calls for rebuilding a ‘grand alliance’ with the rest of the world, bringing troops home from Iraq, recommitting to the war in Afghanistan, cutting poverty in half in 10 years and reducing greenhouse gases 80 percent by 2050.”
To View The Entire Video, Please click here.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Fred's View
The Republican National Committee (RNC) today announced a new Web video, titled “Straight Talk From Fred Thompson.” The video presents former Sen. Fred Thompson (R-TN) speaking frankly and openly about what’s at stake in this year’s presidential election. Sen. Thompson highlights the grave importance of electing a leader who has the experience and judgment to handle our nation’s most pressing concerns at this critical time.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Pelosi Killed Colombia Trade Agreement, Now Campaigning with Garcia
Joe Garcia claimed he would “work tirelessly” for Colombia Free Trade Agreement, but he's okay with hosting Pelosi to prop up his campaign.
Joe Garcia is already mastering the art of misleading voters on his position on the issues most critical to our national and economic security.
Despite his claims that he supports the Colombia Free Trade Agreement, he was happy to host Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who was solely responsible for killing this agreement in Congress this year:
“Democrat Joe Garcia said. ‘I will work tirelessly with both Republicans and Democrats to ensure that the Colombian free trade agreement is passed. It is time to end the partisan Washington bickering and unequivocally support one of America's greatest allies in this hemisphere.’” (Miami Herald, 7/23/08)
Garcia even claims to support the Colombia Free Trade Agreement on his campaign website:
“Joe Garcia believes that a fair and thriving free market should be the center-piece for democracies in the region. This begins by approving the Colombia Free Trade Agreement.”
But apparently Garcia was willing to throw his “unequivocal support” to the way side in order to bank some campaign cash from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who killed the Colombia agreement just months ago.
Read more here.
Joe Garcia is already mastering the art of misleading voters on his position on the issues most critical to our national and economic security.
Despite his claims that he supports the Colombia Free Trade Agreement, he was happy to host Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who was solely responsible for killing this agreement in Congress this year:
“Democrat Joe Garcia said. ‘I will work tirelessly with both Republicans and Democrats to ensure that the Colombian free trade agreement is passed. It is time to end the partisan Washington bickering and unequivocally support one of America's greatest allies in this hemisphere.’” (Miami Herald, 7/23/08)
Garcia even claims to support the Colombia Free Trade Agreement on his campaign website:
“Joe Garcia believes that a fair and thriving free market should be the center-piece for democracies in the region. This begins by approving the Colombia Free Trade Agreement.”
But apparently Garcia was willing to throw his “unequivocal support” to the way side in order to bank some campaign cash from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who killed the Colombia agreement just months ago.
Read more here.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Polls Show McCain Up in FL
Republicans are out-spent, out-staffed, out-registered, and out-advertised in Florida, but Florida voters see through the Obama hype and embrace the McCain-Palin message of keeping more tax dollars in our pockets instead of spreading the wealth around.
Mason Dixon shows McCain 46, Obama 45
Fox News/Rasmussen Reports Survey shows McCain 49, Obama 48
Mason Dixon shows McCain 46, Obama 45
Fox News/Rasmussen Reports Survey shows McCain 49, Obama 48
Governor Crist Makes Friendly Wager with Pennsylvania Governor Rendell
Governor Charlie Crist today contacted Governor Edward G. Rendell of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to make a friendly wager regarding the outcome of the World Series. Tonight, the Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies meet in St. Petersburg for Game 1 of series. If the Tampa Bay Rays win the World Series, Governor Crist will send Governor Rendell Florida stone crab claws and a box of Florida oranges. Governor Rendell agreed to send Governor Crist a Philly cheesesteak and soft pretzels.
Governor Crist will attend this evening’s game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg.
Governor Crist will attend this evening’s game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg.
In Case You Missed It: McCain's Leadership
By George Lisicki, Florida Times-Union
October 20, 2008
I recently stepped down as commander in chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, America's largest organization of combat veterans.
Recently, 20 past national commanders of the VFW and the American Legion, America's largest veterans' organization, joined me in supporting John McCain for president. You should, too.
My 37-year tenure at the VFW made me keenly aware of the challenges faced by veterans of all conflicts, and provided me the honor of fighting for veterans' rights and benefits on Capitol Hill.
In the process, it gave me a unique insight into members of Congress' commitment to America's veterans.
Throughout a distinguished career, McCain has always been a friend to veterans. He is one of us, and understands us at a gut level like no other candidate. We may not have been in lockstep on every issue - that is to be expected. But McCain has consistently supported veterans, and as president, he'll be in our corner long after the election season ends.
McCain has a long list of legislative accomplishments benefiting veterans. For example, he worked across the aisle to co-author the Wounded Warrior Act, which was the first major piece of legislation to address Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury - serious injuries affecting our young veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan.
He has fought for health care for retirees and for members of the National Guard and Reserve.
He has fought to reform the disability system, for concurrent receipt, for homeless veterans, for Gulf War veterans and victims of Agent Orange, and for families of America's fallen heroes. The list goes on.
The GI Bill, for which he has been unjustly criticized, is a perfect example of McCain taking a principled stance that benefited veterans and the country. He could have taken the easy course politically and signed on to the original version of the bill.
But McCain understood what many of us involved in the process frankly didn't fully appreciate at the time - that the bill needed to be improved.
It failed to address a high priority education request of career service members and their families - the freedom to transfer their benefits to a spouse or their children.
And it made it harder to retain the young leaders who form the backbone of our all-volunteer force.
Once the bill was improved to address these two deficiencies, McCain supported it enthusiastically.
Veterans, military families and the country should thank McCain for making the GI Bill better. Allegations that he opposed the bill because it was "too generous" are misleading and inaccurate.
They are also ironic given that the transferability provision that he fought for will lead to greater use by military and veteran families, and therefore higher cost.
When McCain has voted against legislation containing veterans' provisions, it has generally been because the bills included earmarks, or tax increases, or both.
We instead applaud McCain's courage and his commitment to reform. For it is courageous reform that we will need in the years ahead, to bring accountability to the VA, to improve veterans' care, and to ensure that the money we spend for veterans care actually serves veterans.
I encourage you to reflect on the qualities of leadership that we all valued most highly in the military - integrity, wisdom, loyalty and the courage to do the right thing.
I believe you will conclude, as I have after working with him for many years, that McCain embodies those qualities.
He will serve America honorably. He will keep America safe. And he will never let our veterans down.
Read Op-ed.
October 20, 2008
I recently stepped down as commander in chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, America's largest organization of combat veterans.
Recently, 20 past national commanders of the VFW and the American Legion, America's largest veterans' organization, joined me in supporting John McCain for president. You should, too.
My 37-year tenure at the VFW made me keenly aware of the challenges faced by veterans of all conflicts, and provided me the honor of fighting for veterans' rights and benefits on Capitol Hill.
In the process, it gave me a unique insight into members of Congress' commitment to America's veterans.
Throughout a distinguished career, McCain has always been a friend to veterans. He is one of us, and understands us at a gut level like no other candidate. We may not have been in lockstep on every issue - that is to be expected. But McCain has consistently supported veterans, and as president, he'll be in our corner long after the election season ends.
McCain has a long list of legislative accomplishments benefiting veterans. For example, he worked across the aisle to co-author the Wounded Warrior Act, which was the first major piece of legislation to address Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury - serious injuries affecting our young veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan.
He has fought for health care for retirees and for members of the National Guard and Reserve.
He has fought to reform the disability system, for concurrent receipt, for homeless veterans, for Gulf War veterans and victims of Agent Orange, and for families of America's fallen heroes. The list goes on.
The GI Bill, for which he has been unjustly criticized, is a perfect example of McCain taking a principled stance that benefited veterans and the country. He could have taken the easy course politically and signed on to the original version of the bill.
But McCain understood what many of us involved in the process frankly didn't fully appreciate at the time - that the bill needed to be improved.
It failed to address a high priority education request of career service members and their families - the freedom to transfer their benefits to a spouse or their children.
And it made it harder to retain the young leaders who form the backbone of our all-volunteer force.
Once the bill was improved to address these two deficiencies, McCain supported it enthusiastically.
Veterans, military families and the country should thank McCain for making the GI Bill better. Allegations that he opposed the bill because it was "too generous" are misleading and inaccurate.
They are also ironic given that the transferability provision that he fought for will lead to greater use by military and veteran families, and therefore higher cost.
When McCain has voted against legislation containing veterans' provisions, it has generally been because the bills included earmarks, or tax increases, or both.
We instead applaud McCain's courage and his commitment to reform. For it is courageous reform that we will need in the years ahead, to bring accountability to the VA, to improve veterans' care, and to ensure that the money we spend for veterans care actually serves veterans.
I encourage you to reflect on the qualities of leadership that we all valued most highly in the military - integrity, wisdom, loyalty and the courage to do the right thing.
I believe you will conclude, as I have after working with him for many years, that McCain embodies those qualities.
He will serve America honorably. He will keep America safe. And he will never let our veterans down.
Read Op-ed.
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