Unfortunately for Sen. Alex Villalobos, R-Miami, this year he crossed the governor on the class-size amendment and vouchers for private schools. He was correct on both. But when he cast the vote that kept repeal of the class-size amendment off the November ballot, and then did not provide what would have been the deciding vote on another amendment to nullify the Florida Supreme Court decision outlawing vouchers for religious schools, Sen. Villalobos lost his leadership position. A campaign that began last year to deny him the presidency picked up steam. Now, because the class-size and voucher issues were Gov. Bush's priorities, Sen. Villalobos also is in danger of losing his seat.

First, Gov. Bush and his allies lined up Miami-Dade County School Board member Frank Bolanos to challenge Sen. Villalobos in the Republican primary. While Sen. Villalobos has been the voice of younger, moderate Cuban-Americans who aren't obsessed with Fidel Castro, Mr. Bolanos recently voted to ban from Miami-Dade schools a book he considered too pro-Castro Cuba. A federal judge overturned the board's decision.

Then, the anti-Villalobos crowd recruited an assistant principal to enter the race as a write-in candidate and help close out Democratic voters from what could have been an "open primary." As The Miami Herald reported, Alejandro Rizo said, "If Alex Villalobos wants Democrat support, he can run as a Democrat." ...

If Sen. Villalobos loses, it will show how narrow the Republican Party in Florida has become. That narrowness has shown itself in votes to "save" Terri Schiavo, shift public money to private, religious schools and consistently back corporations over consumers.

In 2003, when Gov. Bush goaded the Senate to intervene in the Schiavo case, Sen. Villalobos objected, saying, "We're being asked to actually try a case without knowing the facts." Now, he has been judged guilty of moderation, and Gov. Bush, the Lord High Political Executioner, is ready to hand down the maximum penalty.

Charlie Denies He's Gay, Supports Civil Unions

"Republican gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist told a radio talk-show host on Friday that civil unions between gays are 'fine.' Crist, the front-runner for the Republican nomination, added that he has not decided whether Florida should lift its long-standing ban on allowing gays to adopt children. He hasn't yet "reached a conclusion," he told Miami radio talk-show host Jim DeFede. 'Haven't taken a position yet,' Crist told DeFede." "Crist: Gay civil unions 'fine'".

"The ever-unflappable frontrunner didn't miss a beat when DeFede asked about talk Crist is gay: 'Not that there’s anything wrong with that, as they would say on Seinfeld, but I just happen not to be.'" "That Crist Tan".

Gallagher's Ethics Case

"The Florida Commission on Ethics found probable cause Friday that state Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher broke state ethics laws when he bought stocks in four companies that were either regulated by his office or had a contract with the state."

The commission concluded, however, that Gallagher neither abused nor misused his office when he purchased the stock, so the finding is likely to draw a recommendation from the commission that Gallagher pay a nominal fine or be reprimanded.

The reason: Gallagher failed to sufficiently distance himself from Penn Treaty American, an insurance company that his office regulates, and Conseco Inc., which had a contract with the state.

Gallagher's attorney, Richard Coates, said the commission found probable cause on two other complaints that Gallagher violated ethics laws but recommended no further action: his purchase of stock in Nextel and in a software company, both of which had state contracts, which Gallagher would never have had a chance to review.

About Tom

"Gallagher makes mastery of issues his focus".

Castor Cruising

"Hillsborough County Commissioner Kathy Castor continues to rake in the dough in her bid to replace Jim Davis in Congress as the District 11 representative. She took in another nearly quarter-million to raise her total to $910,543, appearing to tap those Emily's List donors who funneled money into her mother's U.S. Senate campaign two years ago. She has outraised her four Democratic candidates combined. More importantly, she still has $660,069 in the bank, more than three times her opponents' combined. That will give her that much more of edge in the blitzkrieg advertising days ahead. State Sen. Les Miller raised $50,595 in the quarter through July and has $171,770 left in the bank. Lawyers Scott Farrell and Michael Steinberg took in $20,503 and $8,489 respectively. Farrell has $26,880 left, Steinberg, $2,295." "Castor standing tall on fundraising in congressional campaign".

AG Race

"Broward trial lawyer Walter 'Skip' Campbell and Orlando area lobbyist Ira 'Bill' McCollum, running for state attorney general, agree on this much: They both hate sexual predators." "Attorney general race shows opposites attack".

As for Campbell's last minute primary challenge, "McCollum's campaign does not buy Campbell's claim that he was taken by surprise. Without giving any specifics, campaign officials say they believe Campbell may have orchestrated Ehrlich's decision to jump into the race." "Last-minute run for attorney general raises questions".

Public Funding

"More than $6.5 million in taxpayer money flowed to nine candidates for statewide office Friday, as this year's big-money elections virtually assure a new record will be set for public matching funds. Florida's public-finance law was created in 1991 to help underfunded candidates run for statewide office and cap the cost of campaigning. But thanks to state lawmakers raising that cap, the law now helps rich candidates get richer." "9 state candidates get $6.5 million to spar". See also "State divvies election dollars" and "Crist rakes in $1.8 million matching funds".

"Faith-baked"

"Regardless of the candidate, faith per se ought never be viewed as politically toxic - even though some seeking public office drape themselves in unholy robes in attempts to attract votes." "Faith-baked".

How Nice

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board proclaims today that:

University of Central Florida President John Hitt's 40 percent pay raise [to $450,000] may seem eye-popping, but it's well-deserved.

Closing Loophole

"The lawsuit is an attempt to get rid of a well-known loophole in election rules -- a loophole that advocacy groups like Common Cause of Florida and some state legislators are also trying to plug." "Democrats have goal: Close write-in loophole".

"He didn't get any special treatment."

"A top deputy at the Florida Division of Real Estate was fired earlier this month after state officials determined he lied on a state application, a spokeswoman for the Department of Business and Professional Regulation said Friday." "Real-estate official fired in application flap".

Country Clubbers Ecstatic

"AP: Bush signs intangibles tax repeal into law".

Voting Rights Lose Meaning

"It would be tempting to say the sparse hooting and hollering over the extension is because those for whom the Voting Rights Act was originally passed in 1965 don't give a hoot about casting votes. In Florida, in particular, there would be some truth to that: A recent report by the American Enterprise Institute notes that 'the rate at which Florida African-Americans registered to vote continues to be lower than in the rest of the nation.'" "Voting rights lose meaning if not exercised".

El Tee

"Lt. Gov. Gelber?".

SD 16

"State Rep. Charlie Justice hopes the politics of Terri Schiavo helps his chances in the closely watched Senate District 16 race. Speaking at a Suncoast Tiger Bay Club luncheon Thursday, Justice was quick to point out both his Republican opponents -- state Reps. Kim Berfield and Frank Farkas -- voted to intervene in the Schiavo case, while he did not." "Justice: It's about Schiavo".

Smith Beats Davis To Airwaves

"This is the first ad aired by either of the two major Democratic candidates for governor; the Republican candidates have been on television for weeks. Smith has less money than Davis but decided to beat him to the punch on TV in an effort to catch up in the polls. The Smith campaign spent about $700,000 on the commercial, which will run starting today for one week." "Campaign: Democratic primary for governor". See also "Smith launches his first television ad", "Smith to begin airing ads in Dem race for governor", "Smith kicks off TV campaign with folksy spot", "Smith attempts to edge ahead, airing his TV ad before Davis" and "Gallagher Faces Ethics Charges Over Insurance Stocks".

About the ad: "Ad Watch: Rod Smith campaign".Attention Deficit

"From flashlights to Web sites, Florida politicians seek voters' attention".

Nelson's Drilling Reprieve

"Floridians can breathe a little easier over the way the offshore drilling debate has gone in the Senate. At Sen. Bill Nelson's insistence, the leaders of both parties gave formal assurances of protection for the Florida coast. That doesn't make the Senate bill a good response to the energy challenges ahead, but it is much less of a threat to the state's environment and tourism industry than the House bill. " "A welcome reprieve on offshore drilling".

Whoopee

"President Bush to visit Florida next week".

Dirty Little Secret

"There's a dirty secret when it comes to how Floridians elect their legislators: most districts are drawn to favor one party or the other. That means in many districts, one party sits the race out, or has a candidate who doesn't have much of a chance. That means the decision on who will represent many voters actually takes place in the September primary, rather than November." "With many seats safe for one party, primaries where the action is".

Hillsborough County

"At Forum, Commission Candidates Asked About Gay Rights".

A Tough Job

"Katherine Harris' new campaign manager is an energetic young conservative best known for an anti-gay marriage initiative in Massachusetts and for bringing actor and National Rifle Association President Charlton Heston to speak at his liberal college." "New Campaign Manager Faces Challenge".

Happy Man

"It's almost always sunny in Crist's political world.". "Crist's populist theme charms state's voters". See also "Crist's New Ad Covers Hot-Button Issues".

Get Over It

"Bush said Thursday he would not be part of a bizarre plan Republican strategists have contemplated to replace U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris as a candidate for U.S. Senate. Party strategists confirmed earlier this week that they envisioned Harris, who is trailing badly in the polls, withdrawing from the race after she won the Sept. 5 primary. That would give party officials the power to name a more viable replacement. Bush's name came up as a potentially strong challenger for Nelson." "Bush says he won't enter Senate race".

"Jeb!" Received Tainted Contributions?

"A grand jury is investigating whether Sergio Pino improperly paid for a junket to Mexico for approval of a Miami-area development project, and last week the Miami Daily Business Review reported that it had obtained corporate records indicating one of Pino's companies may have illegally reimbursed employees for political contributions made to Gov. Jeb Bush's 2002 re-election campaign." "Crist major fundraiser resigns".

Villalobos

"A bitter GOP state Senate primary in Miami-Dade County is proving to be a test of Senate President-Designee Ken Pruitt's leadership within a fractured Republican caucus. Incumbent Sen. Alex Villalobos, D-Miami, who has not been challenged in his 14 years as a lawmaker, is running against Miami-Dade School Board member Frank Bolanos, whose campaign has a tie to Gov. Jeb Bush's administration. Bush has said he may publicly support Bolanos before the Sept. 5 primary." "Pruitt neutral so far in heated Miami Senate race".

But things aren't all rosy for Jebbie's shill: "The highest-profile candidate, Miami-Dade School Board Member Frank Bolaños, was hit with a citizen's lawsuit seeking to knock him off the ballot. The suit claims he disobeyed state law by failing to resign his current office 10 days before he could qualify to run against state Sen. Miami Alex Villalobos. Both candidates are Republican." "3 candidates face legal challenges".

Ethics Complaint

"Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Gallagher said he won't ask members of the Florida Ethics Commission who have contributed to his political opponent's campaign to recuse themselves today when they consider an ethics complaint against him." "Gallagher won't fight panel's makeup".

Our Green Governor

"The state has failed to improve its record of reporting sewage spills into Florida waters and along beaches, an environmental group said Thursday in a follow-up to a study it released last year."

The 2005 study by the nonprofit Clean Water Fund was called "Are We Wading in Waste?" and the follow-up is titled "Are We Still Wading in Waste?" The answer, according to the study, is yes. It shows the state accounted for 44-million to 51-million gallons of wastewater and sewage spilled last year.

The Religion Thing

"One of the last places a Democratic candidate for governor wants to be associated with Christian conservatives is in the voter-rich liberal Jewish condominiums of South Florida. That's why Democrat Rod Smith hopes to draw attention away from his son-in-law's appearance this spring before the Miami-based Christian Family Coalition by reminding voters that his opponent, Jim Davis, voted in favor of school prayer 10 years ago." "Governor hopefuls try to make religion an issue"

Davis' Ladies

"Democratic candidate for governor Jim Davis this afternoon announced a "Woman for Davis" team that includes people ranging from former Florida First Ladies to college students."

Leading the group are Rhea Chiles, widow of the late Gov. Lawton Chiles; Adele Graham, the wife of Bob Graham, the former governor and U.S. Senator; Anne MacKay, wife of former Lt. Gov. Buddy MacKay; Carol Browner, who served as EPA adminstrator under former President Clinton; and Democratic U.S. Reps. Corrine Brown of Jacksonville and Debbie Wasserman Schlutz of Weston.

Daily Harris

"U.S. Senate candidate Katherine Harris announced Thursday that she hired Bryan Rudnick to be her new campaign manager. He is her fourth one but who's really counting? Rudnick, a resident of Boca Raton, is president of Alliance Strategies Group, a strategic planning and communications firm." "Harris' new campaign manager". See also "Harris hires Boca man as 4th manager" and "New Campaign Manager Faces Challenge".

Here's an idea, change the topic: "The finance chairman of U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris' Senate campaign demanded an apology from Democratic National Party Chairman Howard Dean Thursday, a day after Dean likened the Longboat Key Republican to Joseph Stalin." Let's take a closer look at what Dean actually said:

Nelson is "going to beat the pants off Katherine Harris, who didn't understand that it is ethically improper to be the chairman of the campaign and count the votes at the same time," the Palm Beach Post reported Dean as saying. "This is not Russia. And she is not Stalin. And she will go back to wherever she came from and Bill Nelson will be re-elected to the United States Senate so we can have an honest person as a senator from the great state of Florida."

Military Jobs Moving

"Plan to move Air Force jobs angers Panhandle, state officials".

Nelson on Board

"Ending days of uncertainty, Sen. Bill Nelson said Thursday that he would support a bill banning oil and gas exploration in most of the eastern Gulf of Mexico through 2022 while giving other gulf states a share of drilling royalties. Nelson, D-Fla., had withheld his support for the bill because of concerns it would be significantly expanded when the Senate version was compromised with a broader House bill that would lift long-standing bans on drilling in most of the outer continental shelf." "Nelson's support of gulf drilling to advance bill". See also "Drilling assurances satisfy Nelson".

GOoPers Gettin' Nasty

"The race to replace Katherine Harris in Congress is growing nasty in Sarasota, with the leading Republican candidate pledging $700,000 of his own money to defend himself against what he says is a smear campaign by a Republican opponent." "Race to replace Harris in Congress turning nasty"

AG Race

"Campbell, McCollum unofficially kick off attorney general race".

To Replace Sebesta

"From the insurance crisis to Terri Schiavo, the three state House members vying to replace retiring state Sen. Jim Sebesta spoke on a range of issues at a mostly cordial political forum Thursday." "State Senate Hopefuls Test Voter Waters".

Ag

"Even though Copeland is virtually unknown, he is doing well in polls so far. The latest Mason-Dixon Florida Poll, carried out July 19-21 and released this week, gave Bronson 39 percent of the vote and Copeland 31 percent with 30 percent undecided. Bronson, who was appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush to the post in 2001, won his 2002 election and is eligible to run once more for the four-year post under current term limits." "Rivals have two views of Cabinet post".

"Straw Man Farming"

"Congress and President Bush are very good at protecting imaginary children from imaginary horrors. The House of Representatives this month unanimously passed the Fetus Farming Prohibition Act of 2006."

"Growing a human fetus for the purpose of harvesting his or her body parts for experimental research is something right out of the most gruesome horror movie," said U.S. Rep. Dave Weldon, R-Melbourne, in a news release when he introduced the House version of the Fetus Farming Prohibition Act of 2006.

Rep. Weldon, a medical doctor, is absolutely right. It is like something out of a movie. Usually, Republican members of Congress expend their energy chastising Hollywood, but now I guess the Left Coast is going to get credit for alerting Congress to fictional horrors that need to be legislated against. Soon, Rep. Weldon, if he saw the new Pirates of the Caribbean flick, might introduce the Kraken Ship Destruction Prohibition Act of 2006.

Rep. Weldon knows that fetus farming doesn't exist, but he claimed that it is "a real possibility unless Congress acts to prohibit it. This bill will ban fetal farming before its advocates begin such unimaginable horrors in the name of science."

This is straw-man farming.

Howdy Doody

"Howdy Doody was a puppet on a children's television program in the 1950s and early 1960s. Putnam was mistakenly identified as the object of a comment by U.S. Rep. Marion Berry, D-Ark., in December when he called another red-headed member of Congress 'Howdy Doody.' Even though the comment was not aimed at Putnam, it stuck." "Viscusi Uses Puppet To Criticize Putnam".

Another GOoPer Flip-Flop

"The leading Democratic contender to be the state's next attorney general accused Republican Bill McCollum of changing his position on the polarizing Terri Schiavo case after a debate in Orlando on Thursday."

State Sen. Walter "Skip" Campbell's campaign said the former Central Florida congressman was repositioning himself for the general election since the last of his competitors for the Republican nomination dropped out last week.

McCollum's explanation of his position Thursday seemed to straddle the issue, illustrating what a touchy subject it remains for Republicans trying to maintain a conservative base yet not take a position polls show most Floridians disagree with.

Asked if he would have intervened as Gov. Jeb Bush did to keep the severely brain-damaged woman's husband from removing her feeding tube, McCollum said, "I supported the governor's position on that." But he added that "once the court spoke, the decision was final."

Campbell followed, noting that courts repeatedly ruled in favor of Schiavo's husband, yet Bush intervened anyway.

"I would never get involved as the governor did to force his opinions on this family," Campbell said.

The Registration Thing

"Florida has seen problems with voter-registration drives. One particularly nasty scheme tricked voters by asking them to sign petitions in support of medical marijuana -- without telling them they were also signing a form that changed their county of registration. Some groups destroyed voter registration applications that didn't state the 'correct' party affiliation. A law that goes after intentional bad acts makes sense, which is why Florida already had such laws on the books. It's a crime to destroy voter applications or defraud voters. But the 2005 law goes much further." "Wrong target".

"Jeb!"'s Base

"With one last blast labeling it "insidious," Gov. Jeb Bush signed legislation Thursday eliminating the state's tax on investments and reached a long-held goal."

"The repeal of this tax eliminates the penalty on Floridians who take responsibility for their own retirement by saving and investing over a lifetime," said Bush in a statement, after signing the bill as the last measure left from the 2006 Legislature. ...

Eliminating the tax will remove $131 million from the state treasury this year and another $161 million expected next year, state analysts said. The tax is paid by 223,970 individuals, couples and businesses, records show.

But the real winners are millionaires. The average individual taxpayer helped by the measure holds $1.6 million in taxable assets, according to the state Revenue Department, and faces an average tax burden of $700.

The "Empty Suit" Strategy

"With polls showing Charlie Crist holding a 2-to-1 lead over Republican gubernatorial rival Tom Gallagher, Florida Democrats began teeing off Wednesday on the frontrunner's latest television spot for being big on imagery but light on details." "Beware of Tan Man". See also "Crist's complexion in the spotlight again" ("his political opponents for years have suggested that it's a salon tan or a result of too many hours at the beach, implying he's simplistic or even spacey.")

"Bills Surging"

"Florida's electric utilities got a rate increase last fall to offset rising costs. Now they're getting an earful from steamed customers." "Rates rising. Heat sweltering. Bills surging".

"Jeb!" Hearts King

"In siding with King, who served as Senate president during the 2003 and 2004 legislative sessions, Bush credited him with helping earlier efforts to keep Schiavo alive. In particular, the governor cited King's support of the 2003 "Terri's Law," which allowed Bush to order Schiavo's tube restored." "Governor backs King in bitter GOP battle".

Some GOoPers are mad: "I am horrified at his decision to endorse Senator King. King has rejected everything it means to be a Republican. From his votes to give college tuition to illegal aliens, support abortion on demand, or allow homosexuals to adopt children, he has left the Republican base behind. I would urge Governor Bush in the strongest possible terms to reconsider what he’s doing”, said Kay Reagan Durden, Executive Committee member, and Campaign Coordinator for Ronald Reagan in 1980 for Northeast Florida." "The Soul of the FL GOP".

Charlie's Crook

"A prominent Republican fundraiser who is the subject of a federal grand jury investigation in Miami has abruptly discontinued his support of Attorney General Charlie Crist's campaign for governor. Sergio Pino, a Miami real estate developer and builder, wrote Crist a letter saying 'it would be in your campaign's best interest' for him to end his fundraising support for the leading Republican candidate for governor. A federal grand jury in Miami is investigating Pino and a Miami-Dade County commissioner, Jose 'Pepe' Diaz." "Crist ally cuts ties amid grand jury investigation". See also "Top Crist fundraiser departs campaign".

Dean Blasts Harris

"Democrat leader Howard Dean compared Republican Senate candidate Katherine Harris to Stalin for her role in the 2000 presidential election recount and called the Iraqi prime minister an 'anti-Semite,' during a speech before party loyalists Wednesday." "Howard Dean blasts Katherine Harris and Iraqi leader in West Palm speech". See also "Democratic Party chief calls for end to divisiveness".

Big Davis Lead in Q Poll

"Davis leads Smith 47 – 19 percent among likely Democratic primary voters, with leaners, and 39 – 15 percent among all registered Democrats, compared to a 32 – 16 percent Davis lead June 29. But the Democratic race is more fluid because 33 percent of likely voters remain undecided and 64 percent of those who name a candidate say they might change their mind." "Q Poll: Big Crist, Davis Leads". See also "Crist, Davis maintain substantial leads in latest poll".

Harris in Trouble

"Quinnipiac: Harris Not a Sure Thing in GOP Primary".

Lack of Protection

"Despite the active storm seasons of 2004 and 2005, the Panhandle still lags other areas of the state in safety standards for new construction." "A dangerous lack of hurricane protection".

This doesn't help: "Chris Ingram, former communications director for Katherine Harris' U.S. Senate campaign, joined the team of one of her opponents.
Ingram is the new campaign manager for LeRoy Collins campaign for Senate." "Musical chairs". See also "Harris' Ex-Aide Switches Candidates".

"Builders for Davis"

"Jim Davis was endorsed Wednesday by the 1,800-member Tampa Bay Builders Association." "Builders for Davis".

Car Dealers Battle

"Longboat Key Republican Vern Buchanan expected some mudslinging as he runs for Congress. But what he didn't expect was a blistering attack from Jerry Mullinax, a Central Florida car dealer whom Buchanan says he barely knows. ... Buchanan, owner of 19 auto dealerships, including Sarasota Ford, flew to Orlando on Wednesday and met with Mullinax." "Attack ads target Buchanan".

GOP "Listened only to the insurance industry"

"Democrats had ideas during the March-May legislative session, but the governor and the GOP didn't want to listen. They listened only to the insurance industry. So, Democrats are taking their ideas on the road. This week, they were in Palm Beach County. If the governor is ignoring them, though, another Republican is paying attention. Attorney General Charlie Crist, who is running for governor and watches polls the way forecasters watch radar screens, indicated some support for the Democrats' approach." "Hear out the Democrats on hurricane insurance". See also "Bush pushes plan to insure businesses".

Fear Card

They can't help themselves:

Both candidates -- Attorney General Charlie Crist and Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher -- have played the fear card in their campaigns for the Sept. 5 primary vote. Crist's emotional evocation of three young girls abducted and killed in the past two years -- Jessica Lunsford, Sarah Lunde and Carlie Brucia -- is a standard plea in his speeches on the need for "anti-murder" legislation to lock up violent offenders who violate their probation.

With a less fevered pitch, Gallagher has also warned of threats to public safety in recent weeks, tying restrictions on immigration to terrorism threats. And in his role as CFO, Gallagher announced earlier this week a Web site that will allow residents to identify sexual predators' vehicles.

No Book Banning

"The Vamos a Cuba debate played to divided public sentiments for months, but when the conflict reached the courts, the ruling was focused and clear. U.S. District Judge Alan Gold delivered an 89-page opinion that emphatically rejected the Miami-Dade County School Board's arguments for banning the book. He wrote that the board 'abused its discretion in a manner that violated the transcendent imperatives of the First Amendment.'" "The court has spoken -- time to move on".

Registration Lawsuit

"For the first time since 1939, the League of Women Voters of Florida decided not to hold a voter registration drive this year because of a new state law imposing heavy fines on organizations that fail to meet deadlines to submit applications, the league's president testified Wednesday." "Voter Law Challenged In Court".

Avon Park

"Migrant issue is not dead in Avon Park".

Harris

"The only time U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris had second thoughts about her surgery to remove an ovarian mass was as she was being wheeled into the operating room last week." "Cancer scare renews purpose of striving for goals, Harris says".

Israel Issue

"Support for Israel is mandatory in the race between Republican U.S. Rep. Clay Shaw and his Democratic opponent, state Sen. Ron Klein." "Who's more pro-Israel, Shaw or Klein?".

Cabinet Races

"About a third of Florida voters haven't settled on candidates for attorney general, chief financial officer or agriculture commissioner,a new Mason-Dixon poll found." "Voters unsure about Cabinet". See also "Some Soon Will Be Powerful, But Few Know Their Names", "Ex-client criticizes candidate" and "Poll: Races for Cabinet posts running close".

Republican Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist and Democratic U.S. Rep. Jim Davis hold more than 20-point leads in their respective races for the gubernatorial nomination among likely primary voters, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released today.

Crist leads Florida Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher 55 - 32 percent among likely Republican primary voters, including leaners, and 47 - 29 percent among all registered Republicans, according to the independent Quinnipiac University poll, down from a 49 - 21 percent Crist lead in a June 29 poll of registered Republicans.

Davis leads Smith 47 - 19 percent among likely Democratic primary voters, with leaners, and 39 - 15 percent among all registered Democrats, compared to a 32 - 16 percent Davis lead June 29. But the Democratic race is more fluid because 33 percent of likely voters remain undecided and 64 percent of those who name a candidate say they might change their mind.

In general election matchups:

* Crist leads Davis 44 - 38 percent, up from 41 - 39 in June, and leads Smith 45 - 36 percent, compared to 42 - 35 percent in June

* Davis leads Gallagher 41 - 39 percent, compared to 42 - 35 percent in June.

* Gallagher leads Smith 39 - 38, compared to a 39 - 36 percent Smith lead in June.

1. Do you approve or disapprove of President Bush's overall job performance?
Approve 36%
Disapprove 54%
Undecided 10% ...

16. If the election for the Republican nomination for Governor in 2006 were held today between Attorney General Charlie Crist and Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher, whom would you vote for? (Republicans only)
Charlie Crist 57%
Tom Gallagher 29%
Undecided 14%

17. If the election for the Democratic nomination for Governor in 2006 were held today between Congressman Jim Davis and State Senator Rod Smith, whom would you vote for? (Democrats only)
Jim Davis 40%
Rod Smith 35%
Undecided 25%

18. If the election for Governor were between Charlie Crist, the Republican and Jim Davis, the Democrat, whom would you support?
Charlie Crist 49%
Jim Davis 39%
Undecided 12%

19. If the election for Governor were between Tom Gallagher, the Republican and Jim Davis, the Democrat, whom would you support?
Tom Gallagher 40%
Jim Davis 39%
Undecided 21%

20. If the election for Governor were between Charlie Crist, the Republican and Rod Smith, the Democrat, whom would you support?
Charlie Crist 49%
Rod Smith 41%
Undecided 10%

21. If the election for Governor were between Tom Gallagher, the Republican and Rod Smith, the Democrat, whom would you support?
Tom Gallagher 40%
Rod Smith 40%
Undecided 20%

"Jeb!" Watch

"Speculation Focuses On Jeb's Life After Office".

Bense To Endorse Crist

"House Speaker Allan Bense is expected to endorse Charlie Crist on Wednesday in the Republican primary for governor over rival Tom Gallagher." "The Right Stuff". See also "State speaker expected to back Crist".

Smith Support

"An activist group focused on black communities endorsed Democrat Rod Smith's campaign for governor Tuesday. The African-American Grassroots Committee, which is active in South Florida, has pledged to reach out to black voters on Smith's behalf by passing out palm cards, holding rallies and organizing turnout for the election, the campaign said." "Black Grassroots Group Sides with Smith".

Smith on Election Reform

"Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rod Smith, eager to endear himself to party activists, is stepping up his calls to improve reliability and accessibility in Florida's election system. The former prosecutor and state senator from Gainesville has created a new Web site, aimed at improving the election process in the state most famous for botched elections." "Candidate launches Web site to seize on election issue". See also "7/26/2006 07:02:00 AM">Smith Jumps on Election Protection".

It's a GOoper Thing ...

you know, reducing voter turnout:

A new Florida law imposing heavy fines for voter registration violations could suppress turnout in elections and hamper the ability of labor unions, grass roots groups and other organizations to sign up people who wouldn't ordinarily vote, a political science expert testified Tuesday.

Yale University political science professor Donald Green also told a federal judge that the law makes it catastrophically risky for such groups to mount voter registration campaigns because of the high potential costs of violations.

"It seems to trample on basic constitutional rights of association and expression," Green said at a hearing in federal court. "It's essentially like creating a political moat around certain kinds of groups. They simply will not conduct voter registration drives."

Green, a registered Republican who has written a new book on voter turnout, testified on behalf of the League of Women Voters of Florida, the Florida AFL-CIO and other groups and unions that are challenging the registration law that took effect Jan. 1. All of the witnesses who testified Tuesday were called by the groups challenging the law.

Campaign Blogs and Casts

"Gubernatorial candidates try out blogs, podcasts". And here's a campaign manager that is desperate to keep his job:

"He's a 62-year-old-guy, but, man, this guy's hip," said Gallagher campaign spokesman Albert Martinez.

Insurance Crisis

"The hyperactive property insurance market already has South Florida homeowners taking on dramatically more expense. Its school districts, however, also are taking on dramatically more risk and losing hundreds of millions of dollars in coverage from just a year ago." "Schools feel tight squeeze of rising costs".

Avon Park

"Last-minute vote switch dooms migrant ordinance". See also "Avon Park Mayor Isn't Giving Up" and "Beyond the rhetoric" ("A reassuring voice of reason prevailed over the usual noisy rhetoric in the illegal immigration debate Monday night in Avon Park.")

Charlie's New Ad

The new "ad fails to mention that Crist has no detailed proposal on what to do about the state's insurance crisis, nor does it explain that some of his other plans are controversial and have run into opposition from a Republican Legislature. On property taxes, Crist wants to allow counties to double their homestead exemptions from $25,000 to $50,000 despite concerns that this will create imbalances in school funding." "Adwatch: A look at candidates' campaign ads this political season".

Charlies 527 Friends

"A company that runs private prisons in Florida is among the handful of donors that have quietly helped bankroll an effort to tout the 'conservative' credentials of Attorney General Charlie Crist to Republican voters."

At the same time that Crist was touting his ''conservative'' record in a television ad, a mailer from a group called the Conservative Values Coalition began flooding mailboxes across the state in late June. Although the campaign has denied collaborating with the group, the mailer used phrases and even a photograph identical to one used by Crist in his television ad.

Recently filed IRS records show that the coalition, a third-party group known as a 527 organization, took in more than $219,000, including $50,000 from The GEO Group, the Boca Raton company that runs two private prisons in the state and is building a third.

Mason-Dixon Tidbits

Political Pilse has some "tidbits from [the]Mason-Dixon/governor's race poll". "Bits of Polling Tid". More on Mason-Dixon's latest: "Polls show Harris losing GOP voters", "Nelson's lead over Harris widens in poll", "Harris resolute in spite of polls" and "Harris Losing Ground, Poll Says".

Gallagher Announces That He's "Conservative"

"Gallagher on New TV Ad: I'm Conservative". See it here.

To Replace Harris

"Longboat Key businessman Vern Buchanan is dropping another $700,000 of his own money into his bid to replace Katherine Harris in Congress." "Permalink">Buchanan puts $700,000 in campaign".

"The Florida Police Benevelent Association has endorsed Republican Nancy Detert and Democrat Christine Jennings in the 13th Congressional District primaries, a spokesman for the police union said [Tuesday]." "Permalink">Florida PBA endorses Jennings, Detert".

Four Views

"The high cost of homeowners insurance has rocketed to one of the most talked-about items in the Florida governor's race. In debates, television commercials and stump speeches, the four major gubernatorial candidates emphasize how Citizens Property Insurance is a mess and how the entire homeowners insurance market isn't in much better shape." "Insurance policy: Four varied views".

Wishfull Thinking

"It may be a case of wishful thinking, but some Florida Republicans are contemplating what could be the most bizarre turn yet in Rep. Katherine Harris' beleaguered run for the U.S. Senate. According to their speculation, Harris would withdraw from the race if she wins the GOP primary Sept. 5. State Republican Party executives would then appoint a replacement for Harris, an option under Florida's newly revised election law. That replacement would face incumbent Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Orlando, in the November general election." "Harris win could pose bizarre twist".

House Races

"National Journal's latest ranking of the 50 Congressional seats with the greatest potential for party shifts includes four Florida races". "Ranking those U.S. House Races".

Nelson, Martinez Split on Drilling

"This is where Martinez and Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson, who likes the substance of the Senate bill, differ on tactics."

Nelson has filed an amendment that would prohibit a conference with the House on the issue, meaning either the Senate bill would be passed or nothing.

Martinez believes that confronting the House is not the way to go. He would allow the two sides to meet to try to settle their differences, but he apparently draws a firm line on what he would give up: nothing. "If an agreement comes out of conference that does not protect Florida, I will join Sen. Nelson in a filibuster (to delay a drilling bill), but it is counterproductive to purposefully antagonize the House," Martinez said.

That appears to be the first sign of a split between the two senators, which could weaken Florida's position. Maybe Martinez's approach is best, to give the House a chance to offer a handshake on the Senate offer, but Nelson's reluctance is understandable.

"Calamity Tomorrow"

"Bush and the Legislature shouldn't wait to address the insurance crisis now hitting businesses and threatening Florida's economy. In the last month, companies -- large and small -- have discovered that their insurance rates have skyrocketed, if coverage is available at all. This urgent problem needs to be addressed before the economic damage is irreversible." "Insurance crisis now, calamity tomorrow".

Soaring Tax Rates

"Broward officials, residents seek solutions to soaring property tax rates". In the meantime, "Realtors report existing home sales down 29 percent in Florida".

"Movers and Shakers"

"Less than a year old, the Democratic Professionals Forum draws hundreds to sold-out monthly luncheons that feature the party's top national names. It's aimed at diversifying the local Democratic Party's base from the senior-heavy crowds and attracting 'fresh, new Democrats,' said Wendi Lipsich, the forum's vice-chairwoman and an aide to U.S. Rep Robert Wexler, of Boca Raton." "Democrats' forum lures 'movers and shakers'".

Wingnut Infighting

"The Executive Director of The National Pro-Life Action Center, the nation's only pro-life initiative located on Capitol Hill, has responded to the expected endorsement of Jim King for Florida State Senate by Gov. Jeb Bush. Dr. Paul Chaim Schenck, the Executive Director of the Center, which is a joint project of Catholics United for Life, Priests for Life and Faith and Action (with a combined membership of over 250,000), issued the following statement -"

"Shame, shame on Jeb Bush for betraying the memory of Terri Schindler Schiavo by endorsing Jim King. As Senate president, King had the power to protect Terri, but for cynical political purposes he did not. Now Jeb Bush wants us to forget that King was largely responsible for Terri's death. Bush should know that King does not support the sanctity of life - he endorses Roe V. Wade."

What Election?

"What if they gave an election, and nobody needed to vote?"

Florida isn't at that point, but the story again this election year is how few elections there are when it comes to the Legislature. After last week's qualifying, a majority of the 2007 Legislature had been elected. ...

One reason for a non-election election may be that the incumbent is all-powerful and all-popular. More often in Florida, though, the problem is that the district is all-safe. Partisan redistricting, which politicians use to choose their voters, has cut the number of competitive districts and discouraged challengers. Also, the Legislature wrongly allows write-in candidates to close primaries when the candidates are only from the same major party. Both parties use the loophole by finding put-up write-ins for the sole purpose of making the turnout smaller.

Burkett

"Clad in spandex bike shorts and a bright yellow jersey, Glenn Burkett is a tanned, buff millionaire on a 1,000-mile mission. Burkett is bicycling his way from the Panhandle to the Keys, and the 56-year-old has no doubt where the end of the road will be for him: the Governor's Mansion, where he says God wants him." "Tallahassee outsider tries cycling his way in".

Lawyers, Doctors Heart Crist

"The Republican gubernatorial candidate has raised more than $1 million for his campaign over the last two years from prosecutors, defense lawyers and some of the biggest trial attorneys in Florida. But he is also the son of doctor, has raised $440,000 from physicians, and has benefited when over the weekend Florida's largest medical group decided to throw its lot in with the Republican frontrunner. Crist has taken licks for accepting trial-lawyer contributions from conservatives aligned with his GOP opponent, Tom Gallagher. But the endorsement from the political arm of the 17,000-member Florida Medical Association gives the attorney general political cover from charges that he would saddle up with plaintiff lawyers." "Support from medical group may balance Crist's lawyer donations".

Pinellas Dems

"The Pinellas Democratic Party chose Ed Helm, a former Labor Department lawyer, as its chairman Tuesday night. Helm takes over with the primary election just six weeks away and with an unprecedented number of open local seats being contested." "Pinellas Democrats pick new chairman".

"Agriculture-environment partnership"?

"Rod Smith thinks he's the man to bridge the gap between agriculture and environmental interests, long at odds over how to preserve Florida's green spaces and maintain clean water." "Smith proposes agriculture-environment partnership".

Bright Futures

"Smith, a state senator from Alachua, said the program should be based in part on family income in an effort to increase the number of minorities using the program. Pruitt has opposed tinkering with Bright Futures. Should Smith take office in January as Florida's next governor he does not expect to get much help in changing the program until Pruitt steps down as Senate president in November 2008." "Bright Futures untouchable now, Smith says".

Mack Endorsement

"Connie Mack Endorses Crist For Govenor".

Stem Cells In The States

In Florida, stem cell research is a rare point of contention between two Republicans vying to succeed the president’s brother Jeb as governor. But when one of them, Attorney General Charlie Crist, announced that he “respectfully” disagreed with the veto, his rival Tom Gallagher, the chief financial officer, accused Mr. Crist of taking “every opportunity to disagree with the governor and the mainstream of the party.”

Meanwhile, Rod Smith, the Florida state senator who is the Democratic candidate for governor, promised, “When I become governor, we are absolutely going to do stem cell research and we are going to fund it in this state.”

Six solid weeks of television advertising has helped Attorney General Charlie Crist increase his lead over opponent Tom Gallagher in the Republican race for governor to 31 percentage points, according to a poll released Monday.

Meanwhile, state Sen. Rod Smith is closing the gap on U.S. Rep. Jim Davis in the Democratic primary. The poll, by Jacksonville-based Mason Dixon research, interviewed 400 likely Republican voters and 400 likely Democrat voters throughout the state.

Republican voters backed Crist 55 percent to Gallagher's 24 percent, with 21 percent undecided.

Among the Democrats, Davis holds a 29 percent to 14 percent lead against Smith with 57 percent of voters undecided. Smith appears to have won over some voters since March , raising his numbers from 9 percent.

He Said It

Let's just say Jebbie doesn't have a firm grasp on the intricacies of international relations:

"Let's assume that Broward or Dade was a country and Palm Beach lobbed a missile into Deerfield Beach or Hillsborough Beach. Or if we were a small country and Canada attacked us in that way or Mexico did. Or, worse yet, terrorist groups operating with impunity inside of another country even though the United Nations had passed resolutions to get them to disarm and had done nothing about it," said Bush

Loophole

"An election law loophole allows write-in candidates to close off primaries that would otherwise be open to all voters." "Ballot box bunkum" ("A Senate Ethics and Elections Committee analysis in April identified 30 legislative races where the game has been played and primaries that would have been open to all voters were closed by the presence of a write-in candidate.")

Ruth on Nelson

"Bill Nelson Insists He's Scared - Really".

Shaw on the Air

"The high-stakes campaign for Florida's 22nd Congressional district began in earnest this week, with a TV commercial touting Republican U.S. Rep. Clay Shaw's environmental record." "Shaw-Klein contest hits TV". See also "Shaw ad kicks off TV phase of reelection campaign" and "U.S. Rep. Shaw spotlights environment in new 30-second campaign ad".

Collins

"Republican U.S. Senate candidate LeRoy Collins Jr. picked up a couple prominent Republican endorsements [yesterday] - from former comptroller Bob Milligan and former secretary of state and attorney general Jim Smith." "Republican Senate Endorsements". See also "Republicans boost ex-Democratic governor's son".

Harris Healthy

"Doctors Give Harris A Clean Bill Of Health".

Rubio Hearts Johnson

"Incoming Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio broke with a host of other Republican leaders and endorsed Randy Johnson's campaign for chief financial officer today, Johnson's campaign announced." "Rubio Sides with Johnson".

Avon Park Says No

"[A]fter a raucous and often emotional public hearing that included more than 100 speakers and took more than five hours, the council voted 3-2 against the proposal." "AvonPark decides against anti-illegal immigrant law". See also "Avon Park set to use relief act for illegal immigration reform" and "Immigration splits Avon Park".

Vote Smart

"Consider the trouble Project Vote Smart has had getting Florida political candidates to answer questions about their positions on the issues." "Democracy".

Jebbie: "I’ve done nothing wrong"

"Jeb!" was asked about

Sergio Pino, a fundraiser for Bush's 2002 gubernatorial campaign and now working for Charlie Crist's gubernatorial bid. South Florida newspapers have reported Pino is under federal investigation on various allegations including that he reimbursed individuals who made polititical contributions: "I’ll talk to him," Bush said, noting he'd just read of the allegations as he flew back from England. "If there is any wrong doing it's in the right hands to determine that. I can assure you I’ve done nothing wrong, nor my campaign."

Special Session?

"Amid calls for a special session to deal with what some call the hurricane insurance crisis in Florida, Governor Jeb Bush says he's willing to call a special legislative session, but only if there were legitimate proposals to be considered by lawmakers." "Gov. Bush: Willing To Consider Special Session". But see "Governor in no hurry to call special session on insurance".

Davis Takes On Insurance Crisis

"U.S. Rep. Jim Davis, seeking the Democratic nomination for governor, found an eager audience Monday for what could be his party's most powerful issue this fall: the state property insurance crisis." "Davis offers solutions for state insurance woes"

Nelson Fights; Mel Sleeps

"Bill Nelson said Monday that he plans to ask the Senate to amend its offshore drilling bill to prohibit any compromise with the House, but Florida's other senator, Mel Martinez, is opposed to that idea." "Nelson wants Senate to reject drilling deals".

Whoopee

"Bush, Jennings promote back-to-school tax holiday".

Florida Book Banners Take A Hit

"A federal judge on Monday temporarily barred the Miami-Dade County School District from removing a children's book on Cuba from school libraries and in a strongly worded opinion ordered the district to replace any books it had removed by next week." "Judge: Book on Cuba must stay in school libraries for now".

Whatever

"Back from Europe, Bush jaws with reporters".

Voucher Madness

The feds ought to consider Florida's failed experience with vouchers:

Many states, like Florida, have made it clear that public education means public education -- not private schools supported by public funds through vouchers. Indeed, the Florida Supreme Court ruled unambiguously in January that the state constitution calls for a free, uniform, high quality system of public schools. In the ruling outlawing one of the state's voucher systems, called "Opportunity Scholarship," the court said the state had not lived up to its responsibilities in supporting public schools and added there is no way to make private schools uniform with public schools.

In the spring, legislators refused to buy into Gov. Jeb Bush's efforts to circumvent the court's ruling. These vouchers remain unconstitutional in Florida.

So along comes U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spelling last week with a proposal for national school vouchers for disadvantaged children called "opportunity scholarships." Sound familiar?

The proposal, supported by Republican leaders in the U.S. House and Senate, is wrong on many levels. ...

The proposal's presumption -- that private schools are better than public -- also is questionable. A federal study through the U.S. Department of Education, also released last week, reviewed reading and mathematics scores for grades 4 and 8 in public and private schools in the National Assessment of Education Progress tests. (NAEP is a uniform federal exam taken by a sampling of students. It is not connected to state achievement tests or the No Child Left Behind Act.) After adjusting for variables, researchers found that students in public schools do as well -- and sometimes better -- as students in private schools. The results are similar to earlier research done by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Crime Rate Reality

The St. Pete Times:

Gov. Jeb Bush soured some encouraging news on crime by throwing a bone to Floridians who think our streets are the Wild West. Bush credited gun owners recently for helping to curb serious crime in Florida. "Law-abiding citizens who have guns for protection are actually part of the reason we have a lower crime rate," the governor said. Police and prosecutors must have cringed.

Serious crime has been dropping in Florida for 14 straight years, long before Bush and the Legislature imposed tougher criminal sentences and passed a law allowing people to use deadly force if they feel threatened. Having crime at a 35-year low is good news enough. The governor didn't need to spin it to mislead the public. Violent crime, after all, is lower nationwide than it was in the 1970s, thanks to better policing, antipoverty programs and a growing population that divides the number of crimes among more people.

The real news is that Florida remains a violent place. While the violent crime rate dropped, it was by only 0.6 percent. The number of violent crimes - murder, sex offenses, robbery and aggravated assault - rose 1.7 percent in 2005. There were more violent crimes in Florida last year than at any time since 2002. In Tampa, rape, drug offenses and weapons violations were up. So, too, were murders in St. Petersburg, from 19 in 2004 to 30 in 2005. In Central Florida, every county except Volusia saw its crime rate climb.

Sorry Katherine

We missed this the other day: "Sarasota Republicans reject Harris endorsement".

Family Policy Council

"The Family Policy Council wants Florida judicial candidates to answer questions on such hot-button social topics as gay marriage, school vouchers and abortion although a judicial canon urges them to avoid commenting on political issues. The group plans to publish the responses in a voter guide to be distributed mainly through churches although it also will be available on the Internet, said John Stemberger, its president." "Group seeks answers from judge candidates".

"Life's a breeze"

"Life's a breeze for incumbents"

One of the most outrageous political satires on the air these days is on Comedy Central - specifically a show by comedian Stephen Colbert. He recently got U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler of Boca Raton to play along with a joke about a few things that would "really lose the election for you if you were contested."

The few things, which in deadpan style Mr. Wexler acknowledged would be "a fun thing to do," but, wow!, could really cost a guy an election included "enjoying" cocaine and the company of prostitutes.

The congressman later told The Associated Press that he was nudged to do this silly sketch at the urging of his younger staffers, even though he had never seen "The Colbert Report." He said he has no regrets, because it shows he has a sense of humor.

What makes it all so easy to laugh at, of course, is that Mr. Wexler has no challenger in his race for re-election so he can play his way through election season. Incumbents are lucky that way; they quite frequently enjoy a free ride.

Smith Seeks Support

"Democrat running for governor hopes for support from liberals" "N. Florida candidate looks to broaden appeal".

The Best Deal?

"Last month, some Florida lawmakers -- including Reps. Adam Putnam, R-Bartow, and Mario Díaz-Balart, R-Miami -- voted for HR 4761. They said it was the best deal Florida could get. But the Senate bill is better and is in Florida's best interest. We hope the Florida delegation reunites for a push in both chambers for approval of the Senate compromise provisions -- and neutralizes the threatening House bill altogether." "Best deal for Florida, given the options".

School Enrollment Drops

"School enrollment drops across Florida; educators left puzzled".

On The Road

"Traveling by RV, the candidate's campaign clan isn't tired of each other, though the toddler tunes are wearing thin." "In seat belts and at speeches, Smith's family is by his side".

"Consultant-speak"

"In consultant-speak, the phrase "you should have had me on the payroll" isn't about money, veteran political/PR hired gun Barry Epstein says. When Epstein used those words in a recent e-mail to Democratic state Rep. Irving Slosberg, he says he wasn't complaining about missing out on consulting fees from Slosberg's lavish state Senate campaign. All he was saying, Epstein told the Politics column, was that Slosberg should have listened to his advice." "Commentary: Slosberg alleges ex-flack's flap on 'payroll' reflects green, as in envy". More Slosberg: "Deception is Slosberg's".

Dodd

"Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd believes Florida is a must-win state to become president, and he made a good impression Saturday talking to party activists in his first major appearance since announcing he’ll explore a 2008 White House run." "Dodd impresses Florida Democrats as he explores White House run".

Harris Has Faith

"Before the Sunday service at a church near downtown, U.S. Senate hopeful and Republican U.S. Rep. Katherine Harris gave brief but pointed comments on issues including immigration, abortion and gay marriage. Appealing to about 200 at First Baptist Church, Harris said her views were rooted in what she described as the country's Christian origins and principles." "Harris says views grounded in faith".

Project Vote Smart

"Project Vote Smart estimates it takes just 30 minutes for candidates to fill out its nonpartisan questionnaire. The survey tells voters where candidates stand on a wide range of issues, through questions dealing with abortion, the environment, gun control and taxes. And the answers get posted online (www.vote-smart.org) in an easy-to-search format. But as of Friday, the overwhelming majority of Florida's political candidates failed to return the survey -- and none of the Democratic or Republican candidates for governor have done so." "Most candidates skip survey".

Davis (and Graham) Moves North

"Fresh off Saturday's televised debate with challenger Rod Smith, Democratic candidate for governor Jim Davis will host two more roundtables today on his proposal to alleviate the state's property insurance problems (Smith has a competing plan). Davis will appear solo at a 10 a.m. event in Pensacola and will be joined by Graham in Panama City at 1 p.m." "Bob Graham hits trail today with Davis".

Avon Park Vote Tonight

"Avon Park council votes tonight on crackdown on illegal workers". In the meantime,

activists rallied against the Illegal Immigrant Relief Act, a proposal that would make English the official language of Avon Park and impose a $1,000 fine on individuals or businesses that offer jobs, services or housing to illegal immigrants.

Urban League Implosion

"Had Lois Davis, the interim chairman, thrown as much energy into saving Tampa's Urban League as she did in trashing others for its demise, the group might be celebrating its 85th year instead of closing and leaving black families in the lurch. Davis emerged from the bunker last week to announce that the league's $3-million debt would force the agency to fold. Her refusal to reach out all but killed a bailout effort, though in fairness, the problem predated her and raises a larger question: Should Tampa reconstitute its Urban League or hand that mission to some other group entirely?" "Urban League gone but still needed".

Sugar Coating

"The state report that stirred so many worries about the Herbert Hoover Dike was originally even more alarming than the version the public first saw in May. An early draft of the document called the leak-prone dike around Lake Okeechobee a 'clear and present danger' — echoing a phrase the U.S. Supreme Court has used to describe perils facing the nation during wartime. The final version released May 2 changed that to 'grave and imminent danger.'" "Dike report toned down".

Sarasota Paper Trail

"Even though a Sarasota group has collected enough signatures for a referendum to force Sarasota to change its computerized voting machines, it's far from a done deal, Sarasota Supervisor of Elections Kathy Dent told Republicans last week." "Dent says initiative on ballots is flawed".

"Another Crist TV Ad"

"Republican Charlie Crist has a new TV ad that stresses his opposition to more taxes and support for Jeb Bush's education policies." "Another Crist TV Ad".

Property Tax Fix

"Property taxes are increasing much faster than personal incomes for most Floridians and solutions to the squeeze are creating clear distinctions in the race for governor."

Republican candidates Charlie Crist and Tom Gallagher are campaigning hard against high taxes. Democrats Jim Davis and Rod Smith agree that reforms are needed, but are wary of hasty changes that will bring new and unpleasant side effects.

Davis and Smith are right to be cautious.

"Too Hard To Catch"

"What's a name worth? Just ask a pair of lawmakers who recently found out how hard it is to run a statewide campaign for the first time." "Michael Peltier: Saunders: McCollum too hard to catch for GOP nod".

Yesterday's News

Some news and punditry from yesterday's papers: "Davis lagging behind GOP in fundraising but leading Smith", "Democrats clash over insurance hikes", "Sen. Villalobos' voucher snub invites payback in the primary", "Davis, Smith Duel Over Issues", "Democratic hopefuls rein in rhetoric at Fort Lauderdale debate", "Davis, Smith avoid direct attacks during debate", "Smith, Davis debate before party faithful", "Democratic candidates spar in live debate", "Debate more like a forum", "Stem Cells Split Crist, Gallagher", "Insurance financing solutions elusive", "Schools ask: Where are the kids?" and "Harris greets fans at 'Elephant Stampede'".