Get Ready For the Gutter

It won't be long now:

In a sign that the race for governor may become nastier than imagined, the same Republican consultant who helped Vietnam War veterans attack John Kerry in 2004 has put together a political committee in Florida and has already raised at least $508,000.

Almost all the money for the group -- $500,000 -- has come from a single contributor, Cape Coral real estate executive Greg Eagle, a supporter of Attorney General Charlie Crist's bid for governor. Eagle's son Dane is on the payroll of the Crist campaign and travels with Crist to campaign events.

Yet the Crist campaign maintains it knows nothing about Floridians for a Better and Brighter Future, which according to Internal Revenue Service records was organized in late December, and whose president is Christopher LaCivita, a veteran GOP consultant and strategist.

Crist "does know Greg Eagle and he is a supporter and a friend, but he didn't know he had any specific contributions," said Crist spokeswoman Vivian Myrtetus.

"Questions Plague Gallagher Campaign"

"Tom Gallagher's business career and stock market trading have led to the biggest problems so far in his campaign for governor: a series of news stories raising ethics questions about mixing business and his public duties." "Questions Plague Gallagher Campaign".

Knuckledraggers

The Scripps Research Institute's decision to start work with human embryonic stem cells in California bolstered hopes in Florida that similar work, and money, can come to Palm Beach County.

A measure in the Florida Legislature this session would allocate $150 million over 10 years for adult and embryonic stem-cell research, but even advocates say its chances appear dim in the Republican-dominated Statehouse.

The biggest opponent remains Gov. Jeb Bush.

Save Our Homes?

"Save Our Homes portability catches on".

Good Riddance

"Interior Secretary Gale Norton's resignation will offer a new opportunity to halt the federal government's drive to drill for oil and natural gas off Florida's shores, Sen. Bill Nelson said Friday." "Nelson: Norton resignation new opportunity to block drilling".

Bousquet

"Tax cuts: Bush's pride, schools' pain".

GOoPers Undermine Campaign Reform

The

effort by Democrats to block lawmakers from controlling political committees with special interest money is drawing Republican support, and one top House Republican isn't happy about it.

Rep. Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, the House majority leader whose job is to keep GOP lawmakers in line on key issues, suggested to other GOP lawmakers that they not endorse the Democrats' bills.

Voucher Madness

"Bush's prized Opportunity Scholarship voucher program would be paid for with corporate tax credits instead of money from the treasury, under a bill that cleared a House committee Friday. The proposal (HB 7041) was approved on a 15-5, party-line vote, with Republicans voting yes and Democrats voting no. It is on the House Education Council agenda for Tuesday, after which it could be heard on the floor." "House proposal would use corporate tax credit for Opportunity Scholarship vouchers". See also "Soft money attracting heightened scrutiny".

More Voucher Madness

"About 700 children in a voucher program that the Florida Supreme Court has declared unconstitutional could remain in private schools at taxpayer expense under a bill that cleared a House committee Friday." "Bill Allows Transfer Of Vouchers".

Relocation

"Lawmakers look at relocation for mobile home owners".

Splitting Districts

"School districts could not be divided into rich and poor sections under a plan lawmakers revised Friday to let voters split up the state's largest districts." "Panel OKs New Plan To Split Districts".

"So few parks for so many people"

"Last year, attendance in Florida's 158 state parks neared 20 million. Something had to give. But as the state turns people away from their own parks, it has a responsibility to step up its efforts to provide them alternatives: new parks, new access and amenities at underused and undeveloped state land." "Entry denied".

Sunshine Debate

"Annual Debate On Again To Limit Sunshine Law".

Senior Tax Break

"A law that allows low-income seniors to defer payment of their property taxes may be revised to make the tax break available to more homeowners." "More seniors may get property tax break".

Session Developments

"Legislature 2006: Developments from Friday, March 10".

Circle of Political Life

"Fla. senators get funds for military companies, many of them donors".

Not So "Brilliant"

"There are supposedly currently some of the most brilliant Republican political minds in modern history at work, but the way the botched the U.S. Senate race in Florida is nothing short of stunning." "After hampering Harris, what is GOP's next move?"

Why Do GOoPers Hate Higher Education?

"Despite the importance of higher education to Florida's well-being, lawmakers are taking abusive aim at our state universities." "Hammering higher ed".

"Blind trusts for trust"

"It's not that Tom Gallagher, Florida's chief financial officer and a Cabinet member, did anything wrong by approving a construction permit for an energy company in which he owned 1,000 shares of stock. It's that no one can be sure he didn't." "Blind trusts for trust".

Whatever

"Pruitt warns senators to put away the cell phones".

They Said It

"Crist: Ambiguous?"

"Ambiguous: 'capable of being understood in two or more possible senses or ways'".

Trib "Disappointed"

Why is the Tampa Trib surprised? These are corporations out to make a buck, nothing more nothing less:

It's not surprising that special interests would target politicians who don't do their will, but it's disappointing that a good corporate citizen like Publix is helping to finance the sleazy effort.

Publix, Food Lion, Sears and the Florida Chamber of Commerce are among the businesses bankrolling Florida Mainstreet Merchants, a group formed under Section 527 of the federal tax code. These groups cannot tell voters who to vote for, but they can raise unlimited amounts of "soft money" to try to influence voters' decisions.

"Jeb!" Jobs

"The rebuilding demand after two busy hurricane seasons helped the construction industry add 55,900 jobs over the past year, a 10.3 percent increase. That was the biggest increase among the state's leading industries. The leisure and hospitality industry also enjoyed 4.4 percent growth with an additional 38,200 jobs, many of those in the food and beverage sectors. Those low-paying service jobs trouble labor leaders." "Florida unemployment falls to 3 percent; lowest in three decades".

"Davis Takes Heat"

"Critics say he kissed off the close congressional vote while garnering TV time in Tallahassee as a gubernatorial candidate." "Davis takes heat for missed Patriot Act vote".

The Session

- "Legislature 2006: Developments from Thursday, March 9".

- "Today is Day 4 of the 60-day session of the Florida Legislature." See also "Friday is usually a light day for the Legislature, especially this early in the session. Today is no exception".

- "Lawmakers target slots".

- "Florida affordable housing advocates stress need for change".

- "Let gas be sold below cost, three urge".

- "Senators think twice on tax-cap portability

- "Homestead bill hangs on".".

- "Senate panel to push for nursing home staffing increase".

- "House resolution would reject unanimous death recommendations".

- "Firing teachers could get harder".

Gay Adoption

Voting Machines

"The state has requested a meeting with Leon County officials regarding contingency plans for helping disabled people vote without assistance in the event of a special election, saying the county puts Florida at risk for a federal lawsuit over noncompliance." "State: Leon voting system jeopardizes fed compliance".

"He's battling cozy contracting"

"The head of Florida's beleaguered prison system told legislators Thursday he is combatting nepotism, cronyism and cozy contracting in a two-fisted "culture" that makes many employees want to be tougher than the criminals they guard." "DOC chief: 'Culture' change ahead".

Choice

"Justices asked to allow abortion notification waivers statewide".

"For the second time, Senate President Tom Lee has written a fat refund check to a disgruntled lobbyist from his 527 fund known as FLUST ... ." "Tom Lee's 'Liberal' 527 Refund Policy".

Scripps

"County officials make Scripps sales pitch in Capitol; legislators happy with progress". See also "Scripps deal shows secrecy flaw, Senate chief says".

Loophole

"Some lobbyists have something to cheer about in the sweeping gift ban intended to curb their influence over Florida lawmakers. Because of an oversight when the gift-ban was drafted, the Legislature has given a free pass to 43 lobbyists who owed $83,250 in fines for failing to file timely forms detailing what they'd spent on lawmakers." "Legal loophole in gift ban dismisses lobbyists' fines".

She's Back (Or Rather Never Left)

Representative B is back in the saddle:

Proving yet again that her bid for U.S. Senate is one of the most volatile campaigns Florida has seen in years, Rep. Katherine Harris on Wednesday rode a roller coaster of rumors about whether she's dropping out of the race or forging ahead.

In the morning, the capital was abuzz that Harris was just about to end her campaign to unseat Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson. By afternoon, the Longboat Key Republican was refusing to talk to reporters on Capitol Hill, but finally called the Associated Press to declare she's in the race to stay.

Then, some people didn't believe it.

Sancho

"In Nader-like fashion, Mr. Sancho battles both corporate and political giants in his passionate quest for the integrity of the election process. His supporters - and there are many - admire his proven expertise and activism. Even some of his opponents in this particular matter concede he's been a fine elections supervisor." "Elections flak". See also "Voting-machine company says no thanks, Leon" ("Sancho says he's not out of options yet").

Gallagher and "Shady Insurance Firm"

"Gubernatorial candidate Tom Gallagher has been linked to the shady insurance firm for almost a decade":

Last fall, when many Floridians were thinking more about hurricane debris than gubernatorial elections, a series of ads touting Tom Gallagher began airing on conservative talk radio stations around the state. ...

Around the same time those ads aired, New Times published an investigative report about United Automobile Insurance Co. of North Miami Beach, a privately held company that provides personal injury insurance that's required for all Florida drivers ("The Bad-Hands People," September 15, 2005).

For years, the company has been the bane of policyholders, medical professionals, and lawyers because of its refusal to pay claims. The cases have left doctors and injured drivers holding the bag — and sometimes falling into insolvency. With litigation the only recourse, thousands of cases now clog South Florida courts. Many have questioned why Gallagher's office, which is in charge of processing complaints against insurance companies, hasn't done more to straighten out this errant insurer.

The money behind those radio ads offers a compelling explanation.

Troxler

"You don't need to be conspiracy buff to like a paper trail".

FCAT Follies

"Senate Democrats demanded today that the state Department of Education investigate a contractor's use of low-wage, temporary employees to grade the high-stakes Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, or FCAT." "Democrats want probe of FCAT grading". See also "FCAT graders spark complaints", "Dems demand FCAT probe" and "State to hire temps to grade the FCAT" ("'It's scandalous, demoralizing,' legislator says").

Session News

- Today's scheduled activities. "Upcoming Today"

- "Capitol Roundup".

- "Panel backs records exemptions for public hospitals".

- "Bill would increase penalties for those who beat the homeless". See also "Attacking homeless may yield longer jail terms".

- "Bill would crack down on probation violators". See also "Bill seeks to keep sexual predators in prison for life".

- "Senate bill mandating generator-ready gas stations advances". See also "Lawmakers change tune on gas-pump generators", "Senate panel's compromise won't force all gas stations to get backup power systems" and "Lawmakers looking for post-hurricane gasoline solution". A SPT editorial on the subject: "Keeping the fuel flowing".

- "Bill Would Jail Drivers Who Refuse Blood Test".

- "Florida is two steps closer to creating birth certificates for stillborn babies after lawmakers unanimously approved the 'Missing Angels' bill in two committees Wednesday." "State might create birth certificates for stillborn babies".

- "Democrats Cool On Tort Reform".

Soft Money

"Democratic legislators are demanding an end to the practice of lawmakers forming political committees supported by large checks from special interests and using that money for personal expenses such as meals, travel and cell phones." "Democrats: Spread of soft money must end". See also "Bill would ban cash gifts from shadow groups", "Dems take hard line on soft-money funds" and "Democrats Aim To Wipe Out 'Slush Funds'".

Widening Scandal

The most recent privatization scandal is morphing:

The head of a Senate committee said Wednesday an investigation into allegations that sensitive state employee personnel records were sent overseas for computer processing has mushroomed into a state-federal inquiry.

Sen. Nancy Argenziano, R-Dunnellon, said the Department of Management Services has called in the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Attorney General Charlie Crist's office, the U.S. Department of Justice and Statewide Prosecutor Peter Williams. She said DMS has hired outside auditors to help its inspector general sift through complex transactions involving state personnel records processed for Convergys by GDXdata, a former subcontractor in Denver.

Parents Asked To Beg

"A group of eight local school districts ... will kick off a grass-roots effort to encourage local residents to ask for more school money from their legislators, who will determine the budget during the legislative session that began this week." "School districts urging parents to lobby for more money". See also "School budget crunch" ("the real problem resides in Tallahassee.")

Florida GOoPers Defy Bushco

"Just as Republicans in Washington are defying President Bush on a controversial ports deal that involves the Port of Miami-Dade, sentiment is growing among Republicans in the Legislature to give the state the right to block outside companies from taking over port operations. Despite fervent opposition from Florida port officials, a House panel on Wednesday approved a measure that would allow the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to deny access to any port operator or vendor that ''may pose a threat to the security interests'' of the state." "State weighs move to keep ports secure".

He Said It

Jupiter Republican Rep. Carl Domino wants someone else to put their money where his mouth is:

"They're just bleeding us representatives to death," he said.

No-Fault

The Tampa Trib editorial board:

It isn't every day that Florida's doctors and trial lawyers find themselves on the same side of an issue, but both the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers and the Florida Medical Association are part of a coalition working to retain the state's no-fault automobile insurance law.

That's because the law will sunset in October, which would be a disaster for Floridians who have no medical insurance and for medical providers now guaranteed payments for reasonable charges.

"Secret negotiations"

"Secret negotiations to woo a prestigious California research firm to expand near the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg have reached the top level of state government and could include state money for operating expenses, the St. Petersburg Times has learned." "State quietly courts research firm".

Bay Region Cooperation

"The Tampa Bay region is trying to speak with a louder voice in the Florida Legislature. Lawmakers representing eight counties - and 25 percent of the Legislature - agreed Wednesday evening to set and reach regional goals." "Bay region seeks more clout".

Drilling Bill Advances

"Legislation that would open 3.6 million acres of the central Gulf of Mexico to oil and gas drilling advanced in the Senate today, despite strong objections from a Florida Republican senator who said it fails to protect his state's coast from environmental damage." "Gulf of Mexico drilling bill advances in Senate, despite Florida objections". See also "Senators try to block drilling", "Drilling opponents lose round" and "Wider drilling in gulf clears Senate panel".

"Manatees deserve status of endangered species"

"The debate over Florida's endangered manatees should be dominated by science, not semantics and politics." "Just 'threatened'?"

In a boastful but undistinguished State of the State speech Tuesday, Gov. Jeb Bush presented the Florida Legislature with a final-year agenda that relies on familiar Republican themes of tax cuts, lawsuit limits and public school reforms.

Hands in the (GOoPer) Cookie Jar.

"Bush's office on Monday provided the Tribune a copy of a letter to MZM Inc. and its former chief executive officer, Mitchell Wade, revoking the company's participation in the program. Wade has pleaded guilty in federal court to bribing a congressman and making illegal campaign contributions." "Bush Boots MZM From Tax Rebate Plan".

Where's "Jeb!"?

"The Minerals Management Service on Monday announced public hearings about an offshore leasing plan that would open 2 million acres south of the Florida Panhandle in the Gulf of Mexico to offshore oil and gas drilling, but not one hearing is in Florida, where the plan has stirred worry and anger." "Florida lawmakers fire back in letters demanding hearings in state".

"Jeb!"'s At A Secret Meeting

"The night before the Florida Legislature opened its 2006 session, Gov. Jeb Bush met privately with top legislative leaders and representatives of a "significant business" that is considering moving to the state, the governor's office said Tuesday." "Legislators, Gov. Bush criticized for closed-door talk with 'significant business'".

Developments

"Legislature 2006: Developments for Tuesday, March 8". See also "Bense picks public counsel for this case", "Tallahassee ticker", "Overheard" and "Bill would allow 'state of emergency' for low-performing schools".

New Poll

The Buzz reports on a new poll:

A 2/20-23 poll of 407 Floridians polled by Elon University in North Carolina found a wide open governor's race and clear Bill Nelson advantage in the race for Senate. (moe +/- 4.95) Nelson received 41.2 percent support, and Harris 20.4 percent. Asked who would make the best candidate for governor; 8.4 percent said Charlie Crist; 4.1 said Jim Davis; 5.3 percent said Tom Gallagher; 1 percent said Rod Smith; 15.8 percent said someone else; 44.9 percent said not sure or didn't know.

Politicking At Polls

This issue has been litigated in Florida before, and will be litigated yet again:

The regional director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida said Tuesday that the group plans to file a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a new state law that prevents voters from being solicited within 100 feet of a polling place entrance. ...

Previously, voters could be approached within 50 feet of a polling place door as long as the solicitation was done in a separately marked area or on property traditionally used as a place for public discussion such as a sidewalk.

"Now all of a sudden, that public sidewalk exception has gone away, and sidewalks are now closed to free speech," said Steele, adding that the law is not "narrowly tailored" enough to survive First Amendment scrutiny.

"These people have needs!"

Ruth:

Of all the pressing issues dominating the Florida Legislature this session - sticking it to public schools, mugging the civil court system, allowing employees to come to work more armed than a Navy SEAL - perhaps nothing will weigh more heavily on the minds of our elected officials than: Who is gonna pay for dinner?

For that matter, who is gonna pay for breakfast and lunch, too? And let us not forget snacks, coffee breaks and happy hour. Yes, yes a thousand times yes: Happy Hour!

These people have needs!

A Miami Thing

"Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, City Manager Joe Arriola and City Commissioner Johnny Winton saw nothing wrong in forming a business partnership that conflicts with their duties as city officials. But there is plenty wrong with the deal, starting with Mr. Arriola's failure to disclose his involvement in the partnership, apparently in violation of city law. If Mr. Arriola is found to be in violation of the law -- and in view of his handling of the fire-rescue fee settlement -- it will be time for the mayor to ask him to step aside." "With these three, business trumps duty".

Privatization Follies

"Most Tallahassee-area lawmakers said the Bush administration has just passed the cost to private corporations, with less accountability for the outcome of state contracts." "Bush lauds downsizing; others differ".

Newspaper War

"The fight took a nasty turn a week or so ago when The Tampa Tribune filed a lawsuit to prevent the St. Petersburg Times from using the name Tampa Bay Times on its latest publication, a free tabloid nicknamed "tbt." Both newspapers ran a story on this latest skirmish on the business page. " "Tampa-St. Petersburg Newspaper War May Be Ready To Explode".

Whatever

"Bush delivered his final State of the State speech on Tuesday, but few see him as being finished with politics." "Many doubt Bush is finished with political speeches".

<"Lobbying Influence Feud"

"Even as legislators adjust to a new gift ban, the debate over the law and whether lobbyists have too much influence over state lawmakers isn't subsiding." "Lobbying influence feud in full bloom".

Term Limits

"Linn was protesting the Legislature's decision, made a year ago, to ask voters in November to extend the eight-year limit on terms to 12 years. Voters overwhelmingly approved the Eight is Enough amendment in 1992, and Linn wants it to remain on the books." "Protester to legislators: Leave term limits alone".

Harris Death Watch

Dick

Cheney twice missed out on opportunities to boost Harris campaign, according to Associated Press.

"As vice president, I look forward to the opportunity to swear in a new Republican seantor to serve next to Mel Martinez in the United States Senate," Cheney said during a speech in Boca Raton according to the AP.

But Cheney never said who that would be, despite that fact that Harris is the only major Republican in the race.

Then again, while in Collier County, Cheney again failed to mention Harris, although she was in the audience.

Such slights would normally pass with little mention in the media, but coming on the heels of two weeks like Harris has, they get far greater attention.

Seven years of Gov. Jeb Bush's economic policies have made living in Florida pricier for most people, House Democrats said Monday in an attempt to blow holes through the State of the State address Bush will deliver this morning.

The benefits of $14 billion in tax cuts passed during Bush's tenure have not reached average Floridians, Rep. Anne Gannon, D-Delray Beach, said during a news conference in the Capitol. The median income in Florida has risen 16 percent since 1998, she said, but the state tax burden on residents has risen 17 percent. Fees have increased 52 percent; median home prices are up 55 percent, and state-imposed property taxes are up 23 percent, Gannon said.

The state now has "lower-wage jobs, higher costs and higher taxes and fees, neglected public schools, and fewer Floridians with health care," said House Minority Leader Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale. "Many Floridians are having trouble making ends meet."

"Jeb!" Bashing

by someone who voted for him:

This is a plot and, by golly, it's devious. It's gotta be Jeb.

Remember when Bush campaigned against the class-size amendment in 2002? He said it would result in astronomical costs and tax increases. He said it would "blot out the sun."

Yet here we are with yet another sunny budget surplus. Instead of tax increases, Bush has been doling out tax cuts to all those Phillips Academy grads who followed him here.

This is not about being able to afford small classes. It is about politicians who resent your telling them how to spend your money.

"The machines can be broken into"

Where's the outrage?

After first denying that there is a problem, Florida election officials have now ordered more security measures for voting machines in all 67 counties. File this one under the heading: "Better late than never."

Florida's top election officials could have gotten a head-start on closing security gaps in election machinery had they reacted more quickly to voters' concerns after recent elections regarding possible inaccuracies or tampering with voting equipment.

They dismissed voters' worries that optical-scan machines could be broken into by hackers and concerns about the lack of a paper trail for touch-screen equipment.

Even after a watchdog group successfully hacked into optical-scan equipment in a test authorized by Leon County Elections Supervisor Ion Sancho last November, state officials downplayed the results. Now similar experiments by computer hackers in California, also on Diebold equipment, have confirmed that the machines can be broken into. This apparently was the proof state officials needed to order counter-measures across the state.

The New Hot Issue

"As the annual Florida legislative session begins here today, the high cost of housing is on the agenda like seldom before." "Housing barges into state debate".

Harris Death Watch

Scott Maxwell: "There's now serious speculation that Harris may finally do on her own what some of the Republican Party wanted all along: Drop out.
" "More trouble for Harris: The final straw?"

King "Jeb!"

You gotta love the imagery:

Gov. Jeb Bush starts the 2006 session of the Florida Legislature today with confidence that he can crown his tenure as one of the biggest tax-cutting governors in America.

And to culminate his reign, Bush wants nothing short of the largest round of tax breaks in Florida history.

Democratic candidate for governor Jim Davis on Monday proposed eviscerating one of Gov. Jeb Bush's crowning achievements: the FCAT.

Dead Man (and Woman) Walking

Cheney, Harris; two of the most unpopular people in U.S. politics - a lot of synergy there: "Cheney touts Shaw, Harris". See also "Cheney stumps for Shaw in hotly contested race" and "Vice president stumps in Boca Raton".

Ric [sic] Keller is next: "Democrats are actually happy to see Dick Cheney come campaign for Keller and other Republicans. The VP, after all, has approval ratings that are actually lower than O.J. Simpson and Michael Jackson after their trials, according to The Washington Post. So will Cheney do Keller more damage than good? No way, says UCF pundit Aubrey Jewett: "That pales in comparison to the amount of money he can raise."".

"Eviscerating" the FCAT

"The two Democrats running for governor -- Rod Smith and Jim Davis -- want to curtail, or eliminate, the use of Florida's high-stakes test in schools." "Politicians take aim at FCAT". See also "Davis wants to water down FCAT" ("Democratic candidate for governor Jim Davis on Monday proposed eviscerating one of Gov. Jeb Bush's crowning achievements: the FCAT".)

And So It Begins

"Bush gives his final State of the State address Tuesday, and is expected to highlight tax breaks and education improvements over his two terms while laying out an agenda for items he still wants to see accomplished." "Bush set to outline agenda for final legislative session". See also "Governor Expected To Key On Tax Breaks And Education" and "Debates begin as lawmakers gather for 2-month session".

Tax Breaks

"Florida's farmers will fight for tax relief and more development rights this legislative session, which begins today." "Farmers want protections, tax breaks".

GOopers Out of Touch

Legislative "priorities lead some to wonder if state leaders are truly in step with their constituents. A recent South Florida Sun-Sentinel poll makes the point. A majority of the poll's respondents favor using tax dollars to reduce class size, increase teacher pay and curb university tuition hikes. They also want more state government oversight of insurers and utilities." "The Legislature is now in session".

Crotty Investigation; Don't Expect Much

Bush Pioneer and father of "The Boy Who Yawned" is the subject of a criminal probe:

Gov. Jeb Bush on Monday appointed an outside state attorney to investigate allegations that Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty improperly profited from a land deal.

The investigation involves a 2002 project Crotty helped fund in Palm Beach County with Daryl Carter, a big-time central Florida real estate broker. The Orlando Sentinel reported Feb. 24 that Crotty approved rezoning for some of Carter's Orlando-area land just before he invested $100,000 in a group $21.8 million Boynton Beach venture.

Stephen Russell, state attorney for the 20th judicial circuit in southwest Florida, will handle the investigation instead of Orlando-based prosecutor Lawson Lamar. Crotty has not been charged with any crimes related to the deal.

The mayor said he and Carter became friends through a Bible study group ... .

Good Riddance

"Top state lobbyist says this is the right time to retire".

Good Luck

"During the Legislature's 60-day session that opens today, Gov. Bush can do more than stand by as homeowners prepare to get more depressing policy renewals — if they get the renewals. He can ask that lawmakers deal with the insurance problem by demanding something from the industry that has received so much from the state." "Legislature, governor have more work to do". See also "State lawmakers faced with hurricane insurance issues".

Gift Ban

"Gift ban puts chill on hot party". See also "Parties Crashing" and "Gift ban definitely hurting us, say city and business leaders".

The Tallahassee Democrat ...

says "Welcome, lawmakers".

Redo

"The people of Florida have written so many ideas into their constitution that Republican legislative leaders want to strip it back to basics and start over." "Republicans want constitution redo".

Good Point

"It didn't take long for Democrat Jan Schneider's congressional campaign to point out that the illegal campaign donations given to U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris in 2004 were used against Schneider. Two days after defense contractor Mitchell Wade admitted in federal court to funnelling $32,000 in illegal contributions to Harris, Schneider's campaign was putting out in a two page letter to the media how close the Democrat came to winning despite the illegal donations." "Schneider: Harris' Victory Tainted".

Where's "Jeb!"?

"Twenty-one of Florida's 25 U.S. House members sent a letter to Interior Secretary Gale Norton on Monday opposing the agency's plan to open a large area of the eastern Gulf of Mexico to offshore oil and natural gas drilling about 100 miles south of the Panhandle." "Florida congressional delegation challenges offshore oil plan". See also "Fla. lawmakers oppose oil exploration plans".

Hotline Unimpressed

"A year ago, The Hotline rated Republican attempts to unseat Sen. Bill Nelson, a Democrat, as the seventh-best race in the nation. Now, Chuck Todd, editor-in-chief of The Hotline, has pushed the race to 15th, just ahead of the race in Hawaii in which incumbent Sen. Daniel Akaka, a Democrat, has no Republican opposition." "Magazine editor confident Harris can't defeat Nelson".

Gore In Town

"Vice President Gore will be hosting a fundraiser at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach on Sunday, March 12. The reception begins at 3 p.m. General admission is $100 per person.".

Thanks "Jeb!"

Yesterday, "In a news conference in Plantation, the Florida AFL-CIO cited data from the Census Bureau showing that the median Floridians' household income adjusted for inflation dropped to $40,554 in 2004 from $42,621 in 2000. During the same four years, the Economic Policy Institute found income of the richest 20 percent of Floridians grew 62.6 percent, compared to 31.5 percent growth for the 20 percent with middle incomes." "Union activists claim family standard of living deteriorated under Jeb Bush".

Don't you love the headline: Union leaders "claim", the inference being that the data is false or has been manipulated.

In today's Sun Sentinel, a different version of the story (this one by John Kennedy) reads: "Democrats claim Bush is hurting families, workers".

"Class Size Showdown

"This is the year Florida voters may be forced to reconsider whether they really want small classes in public schools -- and whether the state should come up with the cash to pay for them. Voters called for class-size restrictions nearly four years ago, but Gov. Jeb Bush, state education leaders and the Republican-controlled Legislature refuse to take "yes" for an answer. They say small classes are too costly and have unproven results." "Class-size showdown".

Here's An Idea

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jim Davis

is proposing the creation of a fund that he says will provide at least $140 million annually for teacher raises.

The endowment fund would be started by using $1 billion of the state's surplus, combined with interest saved by paying back borrowed money early. In addition, he proposes giving corporations tax credits for money they contribute to the fund.

Davis, a congressman from Tampa, planned to outline the ideas and other major policy proposals at a town hall meeting in Tallahassee on Monday, including the expansion of a teacher recruitment program that provides tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to those that commit to teaching in Florida.

Frustrated

"Frustrated by back-to-back hurricane seasons that brought widespread power outages and higher property insurance bills, Florida voters want better oversight of utilities and insurers, according to a South Florida Sun-Sentinel poll. About half of those polled statewide don't think those appointed to protect consumers' interests are doing a very good job. A majority said they wanted the state's appointed insurance commissioner to be an elected post, but voters were divided on whether the appointed members of the Public Service Commission should be elected." "After two nasty storm seasons, voters want better oversight of utilities, insurers".

"Most Powerful"

"With the legislative session's opening on Tuesday, the final chapter of Gov. Jeb Bush's legacy as the most powerful governor in Florida history will begin." It is not that "Jeb!" is particularly "powerful", rather it

largely because the voters made it so.

Through constitutional amendments, Floridians cut in half the size of the Cabinet, which for decades had shared executive power. Voters also gave the governor appointive powers unlike any before over boards of universities, community colleges and public schools.

Wingnut Wisely Backs Down

"There's nothing wrong with promoting Catholic values. But you can't impose them on others even if you own the whole town." "Pizza maker drops Catholic governance plan".

Eminent domain

"Proposals seek to limit instances of eminent domain".

GOoPers Weakened By "Leadership Rift"

"A leadership rift in the Florida Senate over who will preside over the 40-member chamber in 2009 is bound to weaken the party's 26-member majority." "Leadership rift could happen in the Senate".

Good Luck

"Board of Governors to push state to give schools more money".

National Guard Promises

Is "Jeb!" "Protecting the National Guard" of Florida? Seems as if he is a bit too willing to accept administration verbal promises:

That verbal promise was enough for some governors, including Jeb Bush. "I trust Gen. (Peter) Pace (chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff) and I trust the president of the United States," said the president's brother. "They said they would find the money, and I think you could take it to the bank."

Others were more skeptical that words were as reliable as numbers in the budget. "The bottom line is, I'll believe it when I see it," said Democratic Gov. Tom Vilsack of Iowa.

Barnburner

"Get ready for a rare red-vs.-blue legislative showdown in central Palm Beach County."

Rs and Ds alike expect the clash between Democratic state Rep. Shelley Vana and Republican challenger Rob Siedlecki to be one of the top partisan state House battles in Florida this year.

Thanks to 2002 gerrymandering, only a handful of Florida's 120 state House seats are competitive between the parties. Vana's District 85 should be one of them. That's why a raft of local Republican bigs — including County Commissioner Mary McCarty, potential future state Senate Prez Jeff Atwater, state Rep. Carl Domino, county GOP Chairman Sid Dinerstein and assorted local officeholders and operatives — turned out Wednesday for Siedlecki's campaign kickoff in Wellington.

will try to paint Vana as a liberal who's out of step with District 85.

"The state issued another news release last week congratulating itself"

"The state issued another news release last week congratulating itself for its "unprecedented success" in Everglades cleanup. The state has built filter marshes that have improved the cleansing of the pollutant phosphorus from farm runoff. But Florida doesn't deserve applause just for doing what the law requires it to do. Congressmen from both parties have warned that ending federal oversight also could jeopardize federal money for the $10.5 billion Everglades restoration." "State still needs federal judge's supervision."

"Run, Jeb, Run!"

"U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris doesn't pose a real challenge to Democrat Bill Nelson in the race for U.S. Senate. Florida Republicans deserve a better candidate, and Gov. Bush is their only hope." "Run, Jeb, Run!"

Sink Viable

Adam Smith:

But if they had any sense, Florida Democrats would stop obsessing about the governor's mansion and start paying more attention to Florida's least understood office: chief financial officer. That's the Democrats' best shot for statewide victory at this point and the most realistic path to rebuilding their cash-strapped, influence-strapped and prominent-candidate-strapped party.

Wonder who's the best face to reverse the fortunes of beleaguered Florida Democrats? The consensus from Republicans and Democrats alike isn't Davis or Smith. It's Alex Sink.

Gay Adoption

The Sun Sentinel "Give[s] state Sen. Nan Rich, D-Weston, credit for at least fighting the good fight. If nothing else, her push to pass a bill [permitting gay adoption] that would crack the state's prohibition against adoption by homosexuals is laudatory." "Ignorance and prejudice are the real winners in this bill's defeat."

Let's connect the dots and make it perfectly clear: it is the Florida Republican Party that is the party of "Ignorance and prejudice". Heck, even the Tampa Trib argues that "Gays Should Be Able To Adopt".

A Miserable Failure?

- "Mother Nature scoured the physical landscape and human nature transformed the political landscape in the seven years Jeb Bush has governed Florida." "Jeb Bush".

- "As of noon today, there are exactly 302 days left in the Jeb Bush governorship, but who's counting?" "Bush looks to extend his legacy".

- "Jeb's final hurrah"

Housing Crisis

"Florida homeowners have been gleeful about their climbing net worths that are directly tied to the sizzling real estate market. But now everyone is realizing overheated home prices have created an affordable housing crisis — one lawmakers will be grappling with this legislative session beginning Tuesday." "Affordable housing to dominate session". See also "Property issues will dominate legislative session".

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board points out that "[t]hroughout the state, nurses, teachers, police and people who work in a variety of white-collar jobs can't find houses, condominiums or even apartments that they can afford." "An affordable home".

Pay no attention to ...

the "Jeb!' fueled

$22.5 billion in long-term debt - twice the figure of 10 years ago. Interest on that costs taxpayers about $1.5 billion a year

Wishful Thinking

"Are you ready, Florida lawmakers? The 2006 session is coming up and your job is to serve the people." "Tallahassee to-do list".

Just What We Need - More Tax Cuts and Vouchers

Jebbie is like a broken record: "The agenda for the Republican governor's last hurrah -- private-school vouchers, tax cuts and limits on lawsuits -- is much the same as it was that first year of 1999." "Tax cuts, education top goals at session". See also "Lawmakers prepare for Gov. Bush’s final session".

GOoPers Just Don't Get It ...

GOoPers don't seem to care what Floridians want:

Florida voters want to use this year's bounty of extra state tax dollars to reduce public school class sizes, build schools, raise teacher pay and fend off higher tuition at colleges and universities, a South Florida Sun-Sentinel poll shows.

The survey points to a sharp rift between what the public expects and what Gov. Jeb Bush and Republican legislative leaders aim to accomplish during the two-month legislative session that begins Tuesday. ...

While education was chosen by 27 percent of those polled, lawsuit reform -- the No. 1 priority of House leaders and some senators this year -- was selected as the top Florida issue by just 2 percent of those who took part in the telephone interviews.

Turf Wars

"Lobbyist turf wars can steal attention from policy issues".

The Poor Things

"The lavish outdoor party hosted by Associated Industries of Florida every eve of the legislative session's opening day will be more subdued this year -- the balloon punctured by the state's new gift ban." "New gift ban takes pomp out of lobbyist, lawmaker bash".

Priorities

The Miami Herald editorial board has some suggested "Priorities for 2006 Legislature".

Putting It Bluntly

"5% Bonus Plan For Teachers Is 100% Nuts", according to Steve Otto:

What an excellent idea. It's a great way to keep teacher pay down, raise the level of mediocrity in the classroom and keep Florida at its rightful place at the bottom of the public education ladder.

"'greenbelt' law"

"Efforts to strengthen a farmland preservation law face resistance from the agricultural industry, which says changes to the 1959 'greenbelt' law could hurt struggling farmers." "Reform efforts target farm 'greenbelt' law".

Last Salvo

"Jeb!"

was in his element.

Talking to a group of conservative activists and Republican lawmakers early this year, he touted the controversial changes he has brought to Florida's education system. And he also tried to drive home a point: Don't stop now.

"We really are the laboratory of reform as it relates to education," Bush told the gathering, organized by the James Madison Institute, a conservative think tank.

But as Bush gets ready this week to enter his final legislative session as governor, his ideas for revamping the state's education system will once again put him at the center of a political battle.

Village Idiots

The Villages is setting a tough standard for up and coming Ave Maria:

Money keeps pouring into Gov. Jeb Bush's Foundation for Florida's Future, the organization that many think will promote expected November ballot campaigns aimed at preserving private-school vouchers and weakening class-size regulations.

The Villages, the massive Central Florida retirement community run by GOP stalwart Gary Morse, cut another $50,000 check to Bush's group late last month, according to records disclosed by the foundation. It has now given $350,000 -- a third of the roughly $1 million the foundation has raised so far.

Bush has been very friendly to The Villages over the years. Just last year, for example, the governor helped the development land a U.S. Customs office at tiny Leesburg Regional Airport, making it easier for The Villages to fly international potential home buyers and business clients directly into Lake County. And three years ago, Bush signed a controversial bill giving The Villages Regional Hospital authority to sidestep state regulations while tripling its size.

Morse isn't the only interest upping an investment in Bush's foundation.

Former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas Rick Blankenship, a Jacksonville investment banker who landed the plum post in the Caribbean after Bush recommended him for the job to his brother, President Bush, gave the foundation another $25,000. He had already put $50,000 into the organization.

And U.S. Sugar Corp., the nation's largest sugar-cane producer and an intimate player in shaping pollution rules for the Everglades, sweetened its stake in the foundation by writing a second $25,000 check.

"Avoid A Problem Long Enough ..."

"Avoid a problem long enough and pragmatism looks like initiative and courage." "Easing crowded schools".

Pruitt Slinks In The Shadows

"In November, Ken Pruitt will become the Florida Senate president. That position of power and prestige will benefit residents of the Port St. Lucie Republican's district, which stretches from Palm Beach to Indian River counties and includes most of Martin and St. Lucie. As The Palm Beach Post documented, however, Sen. Pruitt gained that position by manipulating federal and state campaign rules and relying on lobbyist money. His rise exposes a system in need of reform." "Pruitt's path to power ran through the shadows".

"Economic Development?

Or handouts to contributors? "Governor aims $630 million at economic development".

A Gallagher Prediction

from Scott Maxwell:

Done in politics after losing this year. Gallagher was already running behind in the governor's race. And even if he wages a nasty campaign that panders to the far right to squeak out a victory among Republicans, he's damaged goods that mainstream voters won't support in a general election. Gallagher already tried to reinvent himself for this campaign -- shedding his moderate, centrist image for a more conservative, moralistic one. Some folks liked Old Tom. Some liked New Tom. It's hard to see how anyone will get excited about Ethically Challenged Tom.

We Want Cheney

"'Vice President Cheney is an odd choice to bring to a swing district. It's politically puzzling.' Cheney might appeal to hard-core Republicans, Ceasar says, but he will turn off independents and stir up Democrats." "Cheney visit may backfire, Democrat says".

Good Luck

"The county’s main complaint is that the state law doesn’t let the county create a tougher growth management program than the state allows. Collier County’s current program is tougher than the state’s, so commissioners fear the local program will become moot and they’ll have to abide by weaker state requirements under the new law. That means the county won’t be able to collect the impact fees it has received until now." "Collier officials looking to make changes to growth management law".

Rumor Control

"D.C. talk has some Republicans contemplating a draft-Jeb Bush campaign in hopes the Florida governor would agree to challenge Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson in November." "Jeb for Senate?"

Palm Beach County Clout, Dade Doldrums

"When the 2006 legislative session gets under way Tuesday, Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast will be in their best position in recent history as far as political clout goes." "Local clout emerges in state politics".

This contrasts with Dade:

When lawmakers return to the capital Tuesday for the start of the 60-day legislative session, the Miami-Dade delegation will be at the center of a controversy that could interfere with its efforts to bring additional money back to the state's most populous county.

Dade's 25-member delegation was bitterly fractured last month when a public feud erupted after Miami Sen. Alex Villalobos, who was slated to be Senate president in 2008, lost the post in a middle-of-the-night coup. Tempers have cooled, but the lingering battle between Villalobos and legislators aligned with Sen. Alex Diaz de la Portilla, who opposed Villalobos' bid, threatens to interfere with the delegation's goals in the next 60 days.

Bad Penny

"Senate President Tom Lee has hired a lawyer with strong Republican connections to defend a new law forcing lobbyists to reveal their fees. Lee's choice is Ken Sukhia, who served as a U.S. attorney under the first President George Bush and worked on the current president's legal team during the 2000 recount." "Lawyer with ties to GOP to defend lobby law".

Privatization Follies

"The private agencies responsible for the state's fledgling pre-kindergarten program in South Florida say they don't know whether their schools are teaching appropriate lessons or following the law." "Area pre-K programs operate with little or no outside oversight".

Those Wingnuts ...

they sure do a lot of that "I misspoke" stuff, don't they:

"I would say I just misspoke," Monaghan said Friday in an interview with The Associated Press.