34 Minutes

"Bush halted all Florida executions and ordered a special commission to review lethal-injection policies after a medical examiner Friday suggested Miami killer Angel Nieves Diaz's execution was botched. ... It took 34 minutes for him to die -- more than double the average time -- as he grimaced, flexed his jaw and opened his mouth. Diaz was the 21st person executed under Bush, a record high for Florida governors." "Gov. Bush orders hold on executions". See also "Gov. Bush halts executions", "Bush halts executions to review procedure", "Gov. Bush suspends all Florida executions", "Gov. Bush halts executions" and "State death penalty halted" ("a medical examiner said an inmate's prolonged execution was the result of lethal drugs injected into his flesh, instead of his veins.")

"An execution Wednesday that required a rare second dose of the lethal cocktail and lasted an unusually long 34 minutes triggered an outcry Thursday among death-penalty opponents and led to a lawsuit that seeks to once again halt capital punishment in Florida." "Lengthy execution sparks protests from state death-penalty opponents".

Wonder what Chain Gang Charlie, who has said "'I don't care if you fry them or inject them, as long as you kill them'", thinks about all the fuss?

We highly recommend this post (with excellent links) on the Political Safari blog by the Tampa Trib's will Laura Fiorilli: "Grim Realities".

Ros-Lehtinen Caught In Lie?

Florida DFA seems to have nailed Miss "I didn't say it" Ros-Lehtinen in some serious dissembling: "It has just been confirmed that our Representative in Congressional District 18, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, has been caught in the act of calling for assassinations of foreign leaders, including Fidel Castro. After denying that the video was authentic (you will note its choppy nature on YouTube), the videographer sent the raw footage to Florida's CBS 4 News, and it was not choppy, as you can see." "CD 18 Ileana Ros-Lehtinen Calls for Assassination of Foreign Leaders - With a Poll". See also the Florida Progressive Coalition blog: "Florida Congesswoman Calls for Assasination of Foreign Leaders".

What's A "Jeb!" Clone To Do?

After Charlie spent the entire GOP primary claiming he was a "Jeb!" clone, will Charlie pander to the right wing base on stem cells

Florida - which supposedly wants to become the next great biotechnology research state - is two years away from what could be two contradictory constitutional amendments. One would provide money for embryonic stem cell research, while the other would ban such research.

One way to avoid such an embarrassing development would be for the Florida Legislature to approve money for research this year. President Ken Pruitt, R-Port St. Lucie, and Gov.-elect Charlie Crist are on record as favoring such research.

Property Tax "Reform" - A Higher Sales Tax?

"Bush's Florida Property Tax Reform Committee issued its first report Friday, calling for 'comprehensive' steps to fix the property-tax system but stopping short of recommending detailed changes."

Also Friday, a tax watchdog group made its recommendations, urging repeal of the 1992 Save Our Homes constitutional amendment in combination with steps such as limiting growth of local-government revenue.

"Florida's property-tax system is in crisis," said Dominic Calabro, president and chief executive officer of Florida TaxWatch.

The most radical fix proposed - doing away with all property taxes in favor of a bigger sales tax - was first advanced by House Speaker Marco Rubio, R-Miami, and trumpeted by one of Bush's closest advisers and Rubio's new budget consultant, Donna Arduin. She also serves on the reform committee.

State economists predicted the sales tax would need to be about 13.5 percent to generate enough money to eliminate property taxes. Local option sales taxes would be on top of that.

From The "Values" Crowd

"Catherine Harrold and her teddy bears prove there is something terribly wrong with a system that incarcerates the mentally ill because there is no room for them in state mental hospitals." "In need of emergency help".

Giving Blogs A Bad Name

"[Right Wing Howler blog] was shut down late Thursday for telling readers, ' ...we need to kill all Muslim kids. Starting now.'" "Blog pulled over call to kill Muslims".

Cognitive Dissonance

I have a hard time squaring this article by the St. Pete Times' Wes Allison, "Drilling foes have upper hand - for now" and the AIF's claim of "victory" on the issue, "Gulf of Mexico Oil Drilling Bill Scores Victory".

"False Files"

The Miami Herald editorial board "applaud[s] the decision by Miami-Dade prosecutors and judges to discontinue the practice of putting false files in court records to conceal the ongoing cooperation of a confidential informant. In truth, the practice of inserting a false file in place of a truthful one is extremely rare and, by most accounts, was used only in extraordinary circumstances." "Removing false files from court records".

Paper Trail

Steve Bousquet writes that "a paper trail"

is coming to Florida because Democrats now control Congress. HR 550, a bill by Rep. Rush Holt, a New Jersey Democrat, has broad support.

That is why Ion Sancho, the maverick elections supervisor from Leon County who supports a paper trail, went to Capitol Hill last week. He met with Holt and congressional staffers to push for the change.

"I'm done messing with the Florida Legislature," said Sancho, who uses optical scan ballots. "Congress is where I'm going to put my effort in."

Outsourcing Florida

"Bush's ambition to have government more closely resemble the business world has been beset with painful stumbles - corruption investigations and complaints of lack of oversight." "Record is mixed on outsourcing state jobs".

Oft-misspoken Sun-Sentinel Slams Nelson

This is hardly a surprise, from the Bush league Sun-Sentinel editorial board:

But in a time of war, when President Bush has just received a bipartisan report suggesting new directions in U.S. policy toward the Middle East, the timing couldn't be worse. Nelson is in effect pre-empting the president even as the president struggles to formulate a new policy.

That's unfair and irresponsible.

And get this: Nelson says he'll be followed by other members of Congress, including Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass. Can you imagine the oft-misspoken Kerry as a diplomat?

How do you ask a man to be the last man to die for a mistake?

CD 13: "State Drops Effort to Block Call for New Vote"

"State attorneys Thursday withdrew a motion to dismiss a lawsuit calling for a new election in a long-contested Southwest Florida congressional race." This is lame:

The Department of State decided that trying to get the case thrown out wasn't the most efficient use of resources, said Secretary of State spokeswoman Jenny Nash.

New Secretary of State

"In an effort to repair the image of Florida's mocked and criticized elections, Gov.-elect Charlie Crist on Thursday tapped Kurt Browning, Pasco County's supervisor of elections, to be Florida's new secretary of state."

It marks the first time that Republicans have turned to an elections expert to lead the department, which also deals with historic preservation and cultural affairs.

"Whether it's a paper trail, whether it's some other method of voter verification, that's something that I want to look at as secretary. We'll see what's out there."

Browning was among the elections supervisors who opposed a Bush proposal to give more control to the department and give it the power to fine elections supervisors who did not follow the state's edicts.

Hawkes

You know they did the right thing when Judge Hawkes dissents (recall "Backward choice in Hawkes"): "Court rules judge violated right of teen seeking abortion".

Osceola

"Now that the Osceola County Commission has accepted a judge's order to change the county's voting system, Hispanics once again can have a fair shot at political office." "Making it work".

Rubio Denies "Delusions of Grandeur"

He doth protest too much: "Rubio: No delusions of grandeur".

Local Bundling Prohibitions?

Lawson "Lamar, the state attorney for Orange and Osceola counties, is getting behind a move to limit the practice of bundling campaign contributions. Bundling is a common way for powerful special interests to get around the law that limits contributions to $500. It's easy. All you do is hand over lots of $500 checks under the names of different but related companies." "Bundling of campaign gifts needs taming".

Sorry, But Not Everyone "Loves" Jebbie

"The board and Education Commissioner John Winn, both products of Gov. Jeb Bush's reform agenda, are building themselves a fortress against the winds of gubernatorial change. Tuesday, the walls began to publicly surface."

At Tuesday's board meeting, then, Bush made a rare appearance. Not one for modesty, the governor said Florida has become "a model for our country in terms of results" and its agenda "is full of some of the most provocative and meaningful reforms in the country." ...

Thus emboldened, the board launched into its own tactical maneuvers. The governor's two most unflinching supporters, former fundraiser Phil Handy and former charter school partner T. Willard Fair, are scheduled to end their terms on Dec. 31. But Bush reappointed them, knowing well that Gov.-elect Charlie Crist would begin work on Jan. 2 and could withdraw the appointments long before the required Senate confirmation.

So the board decided to up the stakes. As new officers for 2007 and 2008, the members voted Fair in as chairman and Handy as vice-chairman. This is the same Fair who earlier in the meeting told Bush: "In my judgment, there is no greater person on this Earth than you. I love you."

Tampa's "low-wage jobs and rising costs" In Spotlight

"Broadcasting live from Ybor City, Dobbs sought answers during his hourlong town-hall forum, 'The War on the Middle Class.' ... Thursday's special spotlighted Tampa, including segments that showcased the port and highlighted figures that show the city is home to low unemployment, but also low-wage jobs and rising costs." "Dobbs Gives Voice To 'Ignored' Middle Class".

Reading The Future

The St. Pete Times editorial board declares that Charlie is so very sincere about "open government: "Crist has demonstrated this week that his commitment to open government and well-run elections, two areas where Florida could stand some improvement, extends well beyond political rhetoric." "A strong stand for openness".

Yes

"Is Paradise Becoming A Parking Lot?" ("for a change, the study is being looked at as evidence that growth is not necessarily synonymous with progress.")

For related concerns, see Bill Berlow's "Will our fondness for Florida spell its ruin?".

Senate Partisanship Waning?

"When Florida Senate President Ken Pruitt Tuesday named five Democrats as committee chairmen, the Port St. Lucie Republican as much as proclaimed that the stridently partisan practices of the past eight years have ended - at least in his chamber." "Not as usual".

Let's see what happens when the Dems actually try to get a bill passed that is not approved by AIF.

A Family Affair

"Dr. Andrew Agwunobi will be the secretary overseeing the regulation of 32,000 hospitals and health care facilities and the management of the $16 billion Medicaid program. He is currently chief operating officer for St. Joseph Health Care Systems, which runs hospitals in California, Texas and New Mexico. His brother John was Florida's health secretary before President Bush named him assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services." "Secretary of state, health care administration head named".

Electronic Voting a "Gamble"

"State and federal standards fall short of what industry or government requires for off-the-shelf commercial software, aircraft electronics, even casino slot machines, critics say. With democracy at stake, they say, shouldn't the bar for voting machines be set as high?"

Scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology produced a report that assailed the design and security of voting machines. The institute advises the election commission.

"Much evidence has been produced that voting systems in general are not developed according to rigorous models of secure code development nor tested with the rigor of other security-critical applications," the institute's team reported.

The comments echoed a 2005 report from the Government Accountability Office, citing "weak security controls, system design flaws, inadequate system version control, inadequate security testing, incorrect system configuration, poor security management and vague or incomplete standards, among other issues."

Resulting problems, the authors wrote, have ranged from machine breakdowns to the ability to alter stored votes without leaving a trace.

Whoopee

"Crist party comes to Tampa on Sunday".

We certainly are not on the Obama bandwagon, at least not yet, but what sort of an idiot (hint: Human Events) writes garbage like this: "'Obama could be the Democratic Katherine Harris in 2008—strong enough to win the primary, but unelectable in the general elections because he's a liberal lightweight who'd be victimized by Democratic racism.'" "Obama the Democrats’ version of Katherine Harris?".

Death Politics

"Death penalty opponents are questioning the way Florida executes people - and wondering whether a new governor will change anything - after it took 34 minutes for Angel Diaz to die from lethal injection Wednesday. Gov.-elect Charlie Crist weighed in with caution ... ." Chain Gang Charlie's current stance "is a far cry from his position eight years ago when, as a state senator, he quipped, 'I don't care if you fry them or inject them, as long as you kill them.'" "Execution Puts Crist To Test". See also "Florida death-penalty system: In legal limbo?", "State probes lengthy execution" and "Bush orders in-depth look at Diaz execution".

See Ya

"Harris calls departure from public office 'a new beginning'." "Moving day".

Another Month For Hadi

"A judge on Thursday gave Department of Children & Families Secretary Lucy Hadi another month to persuade him that she shouldn't be held in contempt for failing to immediately find room in state hospitals for mentally ill jail inmates." "Judge gives DCF one more month to argue its case".

Klein

"Klein's campaign manager, Brian Smoot, said the campaign owes roughly $80,000." "Ron Klein's IOU".

Not In Charlie's League

"Alex Sink, the incoming chief financial officer, has raised $31,000 for her Jan. 2 inauguration party, according to her new website." "Sink has raised $31k for party". See also "Sink will post names of donors".

Midnight Pardons

"Bush's decision marks the first time since he became governor that he has agreed to release from prison someone charged with first-degree murder." "Gov. Bush pardons 2 women serving life sentences".

You Go Bill

"White House intensifies criticism of Sen. Nelson for Syria trip". See also "Bush administration says senator's trip to Damascus is a mistake".

This takes nerve: "White House: Syrian leader used Nelson".

Whatever

"Kathleen Shanahan, former Gov. Jeb Bush staff chief and current vice chair for Gov.-elect Charlie Crist’s transition team, was just announced as the newest member of Arizona Sen. John McCain’s 2008 presidential exploratory team." "McCain scores a Bushite".

Gelber

"House Democratic Leader Dan Gelber drew attention for his strong words about the Republicans who will lead debate on insurance."

But a Buzz reader says it's only fair to point out that Gelber, like Reps. Don Brown and Dennis Ross, has gotten campaign contributions from the property insurance industry. About $1,500 in the 2006 election, records show.

Gelber, in response, pointed out he was near the bottom of legislative rankings by Associated Industries of Florida. "I'm not too worried about whose side I'm on," he said with a laugh.

Cuba Hope

"The Democrats' capture of Congress and Cuban leader Fidel Castro's illness have dramatically altered the battle lines over Cuba policy and given new hope to opponents of U.S. sanctions, analysts say." "Cuba ban's critics hope hard line is softening".

Who Won On Oil Drilling

While some Florida editorial boards praised the recent oil drilling legislation as a "good" thing, it is perhaps of some value to know who else thinks it was a good thing:

"Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) was the first statewide general business group to endorse exploration and drilling for oil and natural gas in the eastern Gulf of Mexico (GOM) last December 15th. It has been a very long haul in order to secure this victory, but AIF’s Board and members always felt that this was the RIGHT thing to do."

Missed Opportunity

"It is too bad that U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo's visit to the Rotary Club of Miami was canceled this week. We would have welcomed the opportunity to hear him speak, and let his own words speak to the merit or lack thereof of his ideas on immigration and Miami. The subject is fundamentally important to America's future, and Mr. Tancredo is one of the people who will help determine the outcome of the debate." "Tancredo's visit a missed opportunity".

Jebbie's Corporate Welfare ...

has cost him with his libertarian friends at the the Cato Institute who "gave him a 'C' as he walks out of the governor's mansion, down from a 'B' in 2004 and an 'A' in his first term. Why? Florida's 'explosive' spending growth, notably Bush's $310-million pet project to lure the Scripps Research Institute here." "Jeb Earns a 'C'".

Goodness gracious, imagine the grade "Jeb!" would have received had he appropriated money for a 5% statewide raise for teachers?

The intergovernmental, recreational and cultural affairs committee of the Miami-Dade County Commission passed a resolution today urging the incoming governor to sign an executive order restoring felons' civil rights. The American Civil Liberties Union is also trying to set up a meeting with Crist to discuss the issue.

"We're exploring our options on how to achieve this," said Crist spokeswoman Erin Isaac.

Tuff Talk

"The top Democrat in the Florida House was sharply critical Wednesday of the Republicans who were picked to lead talks on how to solve the state's property insurance crisis."

"The guys writing the last insurance bill will be writing the next insurance bill," said Rep. Dan Gelber, D-Miami Beach. "And the last insurance bill was obscene. It was nearly venal."

Gelber identified the two "guys" as Reps. Don Brown, R-De Funiak Springs, and Dennis Ross, R-Lakeland. Brown is an independent insurance agent and Ross is a partner in a law firm whose clients include Publix and State Farm.

It is the first time Gelber has taken aim at Rubio, whom he considers a friend. The normally garrulous Democrat kept mostly quiet when it was recently revealed that Rubio was hiring staffers, including his press secretary, at six-figure salaries. Gelber said he would reserve criticism for policy.

Helm Ousted

"After just four months in the top spot, Ed Helm was ousted Wednesday night as head of the Pinellas Democratic Party."

"He alienates people, and he alienates good people," Molinaro said of Helm in an interview before the vote. "And I actually have a working relationship with elected Democrats in this county."

That was evident in the unprecedented number of Democratic office holders who turned up at the meeting. Many elected Democrats have shunned the local party, viewing Helm as an obstacle rather than an ally.

State Sen. Charlie Justice, state Rep. Bill Heller, county School Board member Linda Lerner, and county Commissioners Calvin Harris and Ken Welch, all Democrats, turned out as Molinaro boosters.

Helm, a self-described progressive, has the strong support of party members who see him as a bright, committed Democrat unwilling to compromise with the local Republican establishment. ... Before the vote, Adrien Helm said her husband and his supporters would stay active in the party, even if he should lose.

Rubio's "Fiscal Discipline"

"For six years, Mr. Rubio and Florida's GOP leaders have been preaching fiscal discipline and smaller government. They have underfunded education, Medicaid, the Department of Children & Families and other social services. Now, while Floridians struggle to pay their homeowners' insurance and property taxes, Mr. Rubio is handing out six-digit salaries to grow government. Shame on you, Mr. Rubio, for not practicing what you preach." "What happened to smaller government?".

And remember, one of Rubio's hires is the wingnut Donna Arduin, will get $10,000 a month, to spout garbage. See "Political stunts aren't tax reform".

Florida's Finest

"Senators Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, and Mike Haridopolos, R-Indialantic, will be taking Florida's housing crisis to a national audience, when they appear on a Thursday special edition of 'Lou Dobbs Tonight. ... Haridopolos will talk about property taxes and Fasano will talk about property insurance.'" "Senators To Chat With Lou Dobbs".

Rising Star

"Another Florida Democratic Congress member has scored a coup with the Democratic takeover of the House—Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston has landed a seat on the presitigious Appropriations Committee" "Wasserman Schultz Gets Appropriations Post".

Polk GOP

"Polk Republicans Pick Their Leaders".

From Breakup ...

to makeup? "Nearly four months after their bitter primary for the GOP nomination in the 13th Congressional District race, Hudson and Buchanan had their first cordial exchange in public this week." "Will Buchanan, Hudson make up?".

It Really Is A "Joke"

"This is not a joke. The Florida Legislature passed a bill this year that requires high-school freshmen to choose a major course of study, just as do college students. If you are the parent of a 14-year-old, you know that children this age seldom know what they want to do tomorrow, much less what to chose as a career track. You may also conclude that state lawmakers have taken leave of their senses. ... In fact, the state hasn't allocated additional funds for teachers, resources, curriculum or support for the majors program." "Next year, junior must declare a major".

No "Renaissance of Intellectual Firepower"

Daniel Ruth believes that "if Crist thinks the Florida Legislature is going to turn into a renaissance of intellectual firepower when it comes to solving the insurance debacle, perhaps on second thought he might want to consider getting completely trashed on inaugural day." "Homeowners Are Getting Restless".

Tax Panel

"Finding a solution for a property tax system that appears to be riddled with inequities won't be an easy task, lawmakers and other tax experts say." "Officials search for property tax fixes".

STAR Challenged

"Florida's teachers union challenged another key plank of Gov. Jeb Bush's education program Wednesday, asking Leon Circuit Court to order a performance pay plan removed from state law. ... Union lawyers contend that the Legislature overstepped authority by creating and funding the plan in an appropriations bill." "Void performance pay law, teachers union asks court". See also "Union sues to block teacher performance pay program" and "Teachers union sues over bonus-pay plan".

Whatever

"Crist's first inaugural event 'for the people'". See also "Gov.-elect Crist kicks off inaugural festivities", "Crist begins thrifty debut", "Crist kicks off inaugural events by sticking to themes", "Crist launches inaugural festivities", "The people's breakfast" and "Crist kickoff to inaugural blends power, inclusiveness".

Morales Out in Dade

"Less than two years after he was recruited amid high hopes to lead the Miami-Dade Democratic Party, Chairman Jimmy Morales is stepping down. His resignation did not come as a surprise. After the former county commissioner lost a bruising mayoral race, he took the party post as a steppingstone to become state chairman but dropped out of the running at the last minute. Then Morales appeared to position himself as a running mate for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jim Davis, but was passed over." "Morales resigns as head of Dade Democratic Party".

Media Laps It Up ...

like good little lapdogs (see yesterday's post, "It Is So Easy To Suck Up To The Media"):

Crist makes the right move ... the governor-elect said the office would help ensure compliance with the state's Sunshine Law and provide training to agencies on "transparency and accountability." The two appointments that were also announced suggest that Mr. Crist does not intend for this office to be political window dressing.

Earnest

"Josh Earnest, the communications director for Democrat Jim Davis' gubernatorial bid, will play a similar role for Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack's presidential campaign, starting tomorrow." "Earnest Goes to Vilsack" "Earnest Goes to Vilsack".

The "People's Governor" Likes The People's Cash

"Crist took the most -- $3.3 million in taxpayer money -- even though he had already sucked up more special-interest contributions than anyone else in the state and made history with his $20 million campaign." "Public campaign cash there for the taking -- and they do".

No Tancredo

"Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo was slated to speak about immigration at the Rotary Club of Miami's weekly meeting at the Rusty Pelican on Virginia Key today, but restaurant and club representatives abruptly canceled his appearance on Wednesday after his controversial comments ignited local outrage -- including criticism from Gov. Jeb Bush." "Tancredo speech not worth the risk, Miami club decides". See also "Tancredo cancels Miami trip, speech on 'assimilation'".

Siplin

The Orlando Seninel editorial board: "this is just plain bizarre: Mr. Siplin was named vice chairman of the Senate's Education Pre-K-12 Appropriations Committee. Yes, that's right, Senate President Ken Pruitt and Democrat Leader Steve Geller think it is perfectly proper for a man who was convicted of misappropriating state funds to help lead a key appropriations committee." "Where's the outrage?".

Nelson Bucks Dubya

"Against Bush's wishes, Nelson travels to Syria".

House Assignments

"State House committee assignments set". The Palm Beach Post observes that "Choices for panels' leadership to increase influence of region". Jeremy Wallace writes, "House makes committee assignments". The Orlando Sentinel blog: "The Rest of Rubio's Appointments".

Another One Bites The Dust

"Head of agency for disabled to leave" For more, see our post yesterday: "Another APD Casualty; Charlie Skates" (scroll down).

Bayh in South Florida

"He's not yet officially a presidential candidate, but U.S. Sen. Evan Bayh, D-Ind., wrapped up 48 hours in South Florida on Wednesday, introducing himself to people who can donate money and tap into networks of other political contributors. ... At Wednesday's gathering of the Democratic Professionals Forum, a group largely composed of business professionals and lawyers, Bayh's pitch was mostly biographical. He offered more general themes than specific policies." "Bayh makes local pitch".

Early Primary

"Al Cardenas, the former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, is weighing in on House Speaker Marco Rubio's proposal to move up Florida's presidential primary in 2008." "Ex- GOP chief supports earlier Florida primary".

T. Willard Fair, was appointed this fall by Gov. Jeb Bush to a new four-year term on the board to start on Jan. 1.

Initially the campaign of Governor-elect Charlie Crist praised the appointments but recently Crist conceded that his team would review all appointments made by Bush and possibly recall them. (Florida governors have the power to recall any appointments that are subject to Senate confirmation prior to action by the Senate.) Any decision to recall both Handy and Fair could have implications for current Education Commissioner John Winn, who reports to the board and who did not turn in a letter of resignation like other agency heads that report to the governor.

At this morning's meeting of the State Board of Education, Handy gave a short speech talking about his legacy. He prefaced it by saying "This will be my last meeting, certainly as chairman."

"Jeb!" Watch

Governing.com has this puff piece on Jebbie, which has a particular emphasis on Orlando: "Jebocracy".

"Adult Supervision" Needed

Please note the revealing comments of Donna Arduin, the wingnut who was Jebbie's key economic adviser, as relayed in this St. Pete Times editorial today:

Just the words "tax revolt" are enough to send most Florida lawmakers into a panic attack, so the appointed Property Tax Reform Committee is supposed to provide a steady hand. But as the group prepares Friday to complete its preliminary report, it is actually considering a recommendation that all property taxes simply be abolished.

This is adult supervision?

Eliminating the property tax would require the state to raise its sales tax from the current 6 cents on the dollar to 13.5 cents, making an already regressive system intolerable. Yet Donna Arduin, a committee member who was the former budget director for Gov. Jeb Bush, acts as though fairness is a quaint concept. "The property tax system we have now isn't exactly the opiate," she told members, according to published reports. "Let's not just use the old adage 'regressive' and dismiss it."

With such flippant discourse, the committee last month agreed to keep the issue alive and undermined their credibility as a competent, realistic panel.

The committee was appointed by Bush to review concerns about rising property tax bills, and its members have diligently listened to taxpayers in a series of meetings throughout the state.

CD 13 Update

Ralph Neas: "With a new Congress set to convene in less than a month, it's critical to solve the festering problem in Florida's 13th Congressional District by allowing the citizens of Sarasota County to make their voices heard in a revote. It's the only fair solution to what was arguably the biggest foul-up among many in this year's midterm elections -- a congressional race where some 18,000 votes were not recorded." "Sarasota debacle requires a revote".

The "paper trail" critics make their point: "Paper trail the next 'dangling chad'".

Spanking Mario

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "It looks like free-spending Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio's book 100 Innovative Ideas for Florida's Future fell one idea short: How about not pouring taxpayer money down a rat hole?"

Mr. Rubio, a Miami Republican, embarked on a spending and hiring spree that's shocking even by Tallahassee's low standards. He has added more than 20 positions to the House staff, and his top aides are making top dollar -- led by his chief of staff, who will be paid an eye-popping $175,000. Mr. Rubio is also spending $559,000 on renovations, including a private dining room for House members.

Isn't that cozy.

Memo to Mr. Rubio: You were chosen by your colleagues to be speaker of the House, not governor. In fact, Mr. Rubio is paying his chief of staff $40,000 more than Gov.-elect Charlie Crist will make when he's sworn in. Three members of Mr. Rubio's staff also will make more than the $132,932 salary of the governor, who leads the nation's fourth-largest state.

"The People's Governor"

"Kudos to Crist for listening to the regular folks."

Some might interpret such backtracking as a sign of indecision, but it's more important to make the right call. Crist did.

The decision again confirms one of Crist's most appealing character traits, a willingness to listen, acknowledge a potential mistake and change course. More leaders ought to perform that way.

After all, a "people's governor" should be a governor that listens to the people.

"Shock Leaders Into Action"

"The map that projects Florida's growth over the next 50 years should terrify every resident. It shows the Interstate 4 corridor smothered by development from coast to coast, nearly devoid of agriculture and wilderness. Save for the Big Bend area and the Panhandle, the state is little more than an expanse of subdivisions."

The map dramatically depicts Florida's urbanization if growth trends continue and if, as expected, the state's population doubles to 36 million in 50 years. What the map doesn't show is the crowded schools, gridlocked roads, water shortages and sky-high taxes sure to follow such overwhelming growth.

Assignments

"The Florida Legislature's presiding officers ended the popularity contest Tuesday by assigning lawmakers to the committees where they'll shape policy and spend taxpayer money." "Lawmakers take their places on committees". See also "No Reps from Broward, Dems to chair House committees", "Pruitt hands out committee assignments", "Bay area gains clout in Capitol", "House Committees announced", "Gibson gets leadership post in House", "Senate Majority Whips", "Carlton, Bennett get appointments" ("Carlton will lead the Fiscal Policy and Calender Committee, the top budget writing committee [and] State Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, was picked to head the Communications and Public Utilities Committee") and "S. Florida legislators gain clout in Senate" ("The political clout of Broward and Palm Beach counties strengthens in the Florida Senate but wanes in the state House of Representatives under new legislative committee assignments announced Tuesday.")

In the meantime, "House Democrats fleshed out their leadership team today, naming a handful of deputies to serve under Minority Leader Dan Gelber of Miami Beach and Democratic Leader Pro Tempore Joyce Cusack of DeLand." "House Dems Name Team".

Drinkin' the Kool-Aid

"Unlike some pols, Crist sees the papers". See also "Score one for shame" ("Here's an encouraging sign: Charlie Crist, unlike many politicians, appears capable of feeling shame.")

McCollum

"McCollum will meet with Richard Doran, Bob Butterworth and Jim Smith -- holders of the office from 1979 to 2003 -- to brainstorm on the office's structure, learn from their practical experiences and ask about what background people should have for some of the key positions he must fill." "AG Huddle".

Foley Fallout

Sun-Sentinel editorial board:

The report smacks of a whitewash by a committee that doesn't like to find fault with fellow House members. Either that or there's a serious need to revise the rules. Or both.

It Is Easy To Suck Up To The Media

"Crist announced Tuesday that he is creating the Office of Open Government to ensure compliance with public records and open government laws and to train all government agencies on those laws." "Crist creates Office of Open Government". See also "Crist: Sunshine Law is a priority" and "Gov.-elect Crist indicates he wants to work in the sunshine".

No Contempt

"A circuit judge in Broward County on Tuesday refused to hold the Department of Children and Families in contempt of court for failing to pull mentally ill inmates out of county jails within the 15 days required by law." "Judge shows mercy in DCF issue". See also "Judge declines to find DCF in contempt" and "Broward judge: DCF not in contempt".

And isn't this a little late, Jebbie? "Bush Seeks Solution To DCF Bed Shortage" "Bush said Tuesday that he is searching for money needed to meet the shortage of treatment beds that keeps hundreds of mentally ill inmates languishing in jails statewide."

From Our Education Governor

"Most school districts lack merit pay plans as deadline looms". See also "State program providing teacher bonuses under fire" ("Education Commissioner John Winn said Tuesday that he expects the rest to get their plans in by a deadline that's less than three weeks away.")

Another APD Casualty; Charlie Skates

"A day after Gov.-elect Charlie Crist criticized the Agency for Persons with Disabilities' refusal to spend $360 for blankets for a profoundly disabled boy, director Shelly Brantley told members of the incoming governor's transition team that she is not interested in retaining the job." "Chief resigns amid blanket battle".

Thank goodness that our newly elected and very special "People's Governor, on the very "morning the report was published ... called the case 'unconscionable' and mailed a $360 check for the boy." Of course, there is nary a mention in the piece that, according to the Palm Beach Post,

[a]s the state's attorney general, Charlie Crist fought a 12-year-old disabled boy's request that the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities pay $360 a year for the child's special thermal blankets.

Nuclear Surprise

"Progress Energy Florida may build a nuclear power plant in Levy County a few miles north of its existing Crystal River plant, the company said Tuesday." "Progress Energy may build nuke plant in Levy County".

Lower Rates

"Under pressure from state regulators, Allstate's two Florida homeowners insurance companies are drastically shrinking the size of the rate increase they're seeking." "Allstate asks for smaller rate increase".

Remember the "Miami 7"

"If dopes is too harsh, dupes certainly fits ... ." "What about 'Miami 7'?".

'Glades

"More than a year after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers denied a developer permits to build on Martin County land earmarked for Everglades restoration, the corps changed its mind, signing off on the 4,500-acre Harmony Ranch development west of Hobe Sound. It's a disappointing decision that is one more black mark against federal participation in the so-called 50-50 federal-state partnership to restore the Everglades." "Congress, corps hurt Everglades restoration".

Vilsack Moves South

"The 2006 election season is barely over and the 2008 election is already heating up, with Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack bringing his presidential campaign to South Florida while the state's political leaders position to make the state a bigger player in the race." "Iowa governor pursues presidential hopes".

Florida "Slipping"

"Florida -- home to the first post-9/11 anthrax outbreak -- once ranked near the top of the 50 states when it came to preparedness for public health disasters, but the state's chronic nursing shortage has contributed to it slipping, according to the survey." "Report finds few states prepared for disaster".

The Washington Post identifies two Florida Democrats as the "30-Something Working Group," who are "a loose collection of House Democrats in their 30s and 40s who have begun making waves."

The Post says Reps. Kendrick Meek, from Miami, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston, are the core of the group, along with and Timothy Ryan of Ohio. According to the Post, the 3 gave floor speeches during the special orders session around 10 or 11 p.m. and were recorded by C-SPAN. That apparently had some impact, the Post reports:

CD 13 Update

"Jennings sat down with the St. Petersburg Times on Monday to talk about the race." "Candidate vows not to give up vote fight".

"MoveOn.org is getting involved in Florida's District 13 election controversy, urging supporters to sign petitions calling on the newly Democratic-controlled Congress to order a re-vote -- instead of seating Republican Vern Buchanan, the apparent winner." "MoveOn Moves Into Sarasota". See also "MoveOn won't move on".

Q had this the other day:

Rep. Robert Wexler, D-Delray Beach, and Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Miramar, told reporters after the meeting that they were not willing to concede the outcome of the District 13 race to Buchanan.

"We all have an obligation to ensure a fair and accurate results," Wexler said. "Today, we don’t have any evidence that we have an accurate result. I think we would all be premature to say this is the … outcome."

Wexler disagreed with Miller that Florida should not begin the 110th Congress one member short if it meant denying Jennings the opportunity to challenge the outcome.

Unless the courts order a new election, it will be up to the House of Representatives — under Democratic control — to determine whom to seat. Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, R-Miami, warned Democrats not to "poison the well,”"by using their majority status to reject the certified winner.

But Hastings said relations would be equally poisoned if Jennings was denied a chance to challenge the outcome.

Foundation for Jebbie's Future

Some people write a check to the phone company every month; Gary Morse writes one [yet another $50,000 contribution for a total of $700,000 overall] to Gov. Jeb Bush (well, to the governor's Foundation for Florida's Future, anyway). ... Other relatively recent donors to the foundation include Miami developer Edward Easton ($25,000); former Bush budget director -- and current $10,000-a-month consultant to Speaker Marco Rubio and the Florida House -- Donna Arduin ($5,000); and the campaign of newly installed Panhandle Sen. Don Gaetz ($500)." "Another Month, Another Check".

DCF Judge Recusal

"Circuit judge removes self from case against DCF chief" See also "Judge drops out of DCF case". Courtesy of the Buzz, here's the "court order (PDF)"

Flat Out Silly

"From ceramics to international law, Florida's eighth-graders will have 440 majors to choose from for next year." "Eighth-graders have 440 choices for major". See also "High schools to require student majors" ("majors ranging from assistant landscape technician to global leadership").

It seems just plain silly having eighth graders choose from a list of hundreds of majors, including international law, assistant landscape technician, global leadership and ceramics. See "State-mandated plan not popular with Palm school district leaders".

Vilsack

"The 2006 election season is barely over, and the 2008 election is already heating up, with Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack bringing his presidential campaign here while Florida's political leaders try to make the state a bigger player in the race." "Iowa governor seeks Floridians' approval". See also "Presidential campaign begins" and "Iowa's Vilsack banks on his record in try for top".

In the meantime, "Florida aims to boost clout in presidential race".

Villalobos

"Miami Sen. Alex Villalobos says he just got a call from Senate President Ken Pruitt informing him he'd be chair of the Judiciary Committee. ... One idea he plans to float this year: Putting everyone under oath when they appear before state lawmakers. By doing just that in 2003 during the medical malpractice special sessions, he earned the enmity of some in the insurance industry." "Villalobos to chair judiciary".

Did She Say It?

"Director: Ros-Lehtinen clip genuine".

"Wow", Charlie's So Special

Charlie is so very special:

Wow, a future governor who actually admits he's human. He was right that the unfortunate solicitations failed to set the right tone for the new day he promised in Tallahassee.

Unfortunately, his decision to cancel the $100-a-ticket inaugural ball and limit contributions to the $10,000 range came only after sharp criticism from citizens and newspaper editorial boards, leaving the impression that he reacted not from conscience, but from unflattering critiques.

Insurance

"No senator ranked Banking and Inurance as their No. 1 choice for committee assignments, but as many as 14 senators ranked a Banking and Insurance assignment within their top 5 committee choices." "Insurance Committee Buzz". See also "What senators really want".

GOPer Straw Poll?

"Gov.-elect Charlie Crist, who initially didn’t take a stand on the Republican Party’s plans to hold a presidential straw vote at its state convention in October 2007, seems increasingly willing to come out against the idea. Crist has spoken positively about moving Florida’s mid-March primary to an earlier date, probably early February, to give the state more influence on the selection of presidential nominees. " "Crist Leaning Against Straw Poll".

Party On

"Governor-elect Charlie Crist may have canceled his inaugural ball, but Chief Financial Officer-elect Alex Sink still plans to hold a inauguration night shindig at the University Club on the campus of Florida State University." "Here's one party that's still on".

Levy County to Go Nuke

"Progress Energy, which operates the Crystal River nuclear power plant, has been talking for a couple of years about building another nuke plant. Word in Washington—background sources—is that they’ll make it official Tuesday [and Levy County is the site]." "Progress Energy Announcing Nuke Plans".

Fiction or Non-Fiction?

"Harris said she already has several chapters written in a book that apparently will talk about her unsuccessful campaign for the U.S. Senate, but wouldn’t say much about what it will be about. The Washington Post reported in October that Harris is planning a book that will talk about how her political aspirations were undermined by various forces including Republican Party leaders who didn’t back her and the press, which she frequently says is biassed against her." "Harris: Book In The Works, But Not “Immediately”".

Paper Trail

"It may be too late for frustrated voters in Sarasota County, but Democratic leaders said they intend to change election rules next year to require that all voting machines produce a verifiable paper record. If the federal proposal becomes law, Florida would have to abandon all its touch-screen-voting machines unless state election officials decide to certify a touch-screen model with a verifiable paper trail. So far, that has not happened." "Democrats vow votes will have paper trail".

Ahead of the curve: "Broward County to explore paper trail for touch-screen voting machines".

The Best We Could Do?

The St. Pete Times thinks so: "Despite objections from some Democrats and environmentalists, the Senate bill passed both chambers as the lame-duck session ended Saturday and will become law with President Bush's signature. " "A good deal on oil drilling".

The Sarasota Herald Tribune sees it as a "Missed opportunity", and complains that "Bill Nelson's first major opportunity for leadership since his re-election last month resulted in a major disappointment."

See also "Manatee's feelings mixed over drilling" ("Manatee's feelings mixed over drilling: Some argue tourism will suffer, others say it could've been worse")

Developers Rule

If amendments to the

Bradenton comprehensive plan are passed, developers would be free to build larger, higher-density projects in areas already vulnerable to storm surge and hurricane-force winds.

Critics, including a state agency and a local environmental group, say the amendments would give developers free rein to build on some of the most fragile habitat on the Manatee River, Palma Sola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Polk Poverty

William March on Polk Poverty: "Polk comes into play in this because Lakeland suburbs have the 10th highest rate of poverty in the country, according to [new Brookings Institution study]". "A Curious Bit Of Bad News About Polk Poverty".

The Future

"What should Florida look like 50 years from now? Will its current population of 18 million swell to 36 million people, as projected in a study commissioned by the land-use group, 1,000 Friends of Florida? Since the Sunshine State is one of the country's fastest growing, this projection is not unreasonable." "Sobering view of Florida in 50 years".

Appointments

"Will Crist tap current and former legislators?" See who is in the mix here.

Whitewash

"It's outrageous that no one was punished over page scandal." "Foley whitewash".

Valuing Land

"Changing the way property appraisers value land across the state should be one of the state's top priorities during next year's legislative session, Palm Beach County commissioners told state lawmakers from the area on Monday." "County officials urge Fla. lawmakers to tackle appraisals hiking tax bills".

'Glades

"A federal judge ruled Monday that Florida water managers violated the federal Clean Water Act by pumping contaminated water from farmland into Lake Okeechobee and ordered further proceedings to determine what to do about it."

The 107-page order from U.S. District Judge Cecilia M. Altonaga, following a trial that began in January, concluded that the South Florida Water Management District failed to obtain the necessary Clean Water Act permits.

The decision was a victory for Friends of the Everglades, the Florida Wildlife Federation and other environmental and conservation groups as well as the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians, which considers the lake and Everglades part of its ancestral home.

Nelson

"Nelson appointed to intelligence committee". See also "Nelson named to Intelligence Committee", "Nelson Gets Intel Seat", "Nelson lands spot on Intelligence Committee" and "Nelson to intelligence".

LG

"Lt. Gov-elect Jeff Kottkamp picked his best friend and fellow lawyer as his chief of staff today." "Next LG Names Top Aide". See also "Lt. Gov.-elect Kottkamp names his chief of staff", "Kottkamp names chief of staff".

Tax Break

"Florida is among states that had a tax break restored by Congress, but the IRS still needs to update its tax forms" "Tax break aids Floridians, but it's not on IRS forms".

Mahoney on Ethics

"The man who's taken the seat of disgraced Florida U.S. Rep. Mark Foley called today for ethics reform in Congress. Read Tim Mahoney's news release". "Foley's successor wants ethics changes". See also "Mahoney joins push to create ethics office", "Mahoney calls for ethics office" ("Mahoney also wants to ban members from accepting gifts, meals, and trips from lobbyists.")

CD 13

The Republican brain trust makes a prediction:

Add Florida's Gov.-elect Charlie Crist and U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez to the list of Republicans predicting Democrats in Congress won't dare block Republican Vern Buchanan from taking a seat in Congress on Jan. 4.

Charlie Cares

"Florida's incoming governor says the state needs to build one or more new public universities to enroll an estimated 50,000 new students in the next six years, but he doesn't foresee a need to raise taxes -- or most student fees to cover costs." "Packed colleges concern Crist".

Tax Reform Panel

"Some of the best minds in the state have listened patiently to the complaints of Florida taxpayers for months and now have the tough duty of crafting a tax-reform package both the Legislature and the public will buy." "Reform Panel's Flawed Ideas Give Boost To Turner's Tax Plan".

Expensive

"Spending in the contentious Ron Klein-Clay Shaw congressional contest this year reached stratospheric levels by Election Day. The total, which exceeds $13.5 million, works out to $63.51 for every vote cast in the Broward-Palm Beach county district." "Ron Klein-Clay Shaw race for U.S. seat: $63.51 per voter".

Dancing Fool No More

As widely reported yesterday: "Crist scraps plan for lavish inaugural ball funded partly by lobbyists".

Dirty Water

Florida Department of Environmental Protection "is considering reclassifying the state's bodies of water. The result, among other things, could be a reduction in water-quality standards for Broward's 1,800-mile network of canals. Currently the standards are set at levels that, at least in theory, should make the canals fit for swimming and fishing." "Water Quality".

Republicans Cross Fingers

"Will the "Jeb" Burger stay at Andrew's Capital Grill & Bar? Or will newly-elected Florida Gov. Charlie Crist get a Monte Cristo sandwich named for him?" "Their menu is in your hands, voters".

Rate Hikes

"Southwest Florida property owners facing potential rate hikes of up to 600 percent won a temporary reprieve last week when the state-run insurer postponed approval of premiums lawmakers in May demanded to shore up the program." "Michael Peltier: Property owners win temporary reprieve".

Imagine That

"In the days before Florida voters passed a minimum wage amendment to the state constitution, business owners and their industry advocates were predicting doom." They were wrong. "Higher wage, minimum problem".

The Ros-Lehtinen Thing

"Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Miami, who was recently tapped to become the top Republican on the House International Relations Committee, appears in the 28-second clip being circulated on the Internet by the makers of a new British documentary, "638 Ways to Kill Castro." In it, she says: "I welcome the opportunity of having anyone assassinate Fidel Castro and any leader who is oppressing the people."" "Congresswoman says video calling for Castro killing is a fake". See also the Miami Herald story the other day: "Ros-Lehtinen: Kill-Castro video a trick".

"The film's director, Dolan Cannell, stood by the authenticity of the footage."

"I can assure you categorically and completely that there has been no distortion of what she said," Cannell told the Associated Press on Sunday.

Ros-Lehtinen said she has seen the documentary and the final cut does not include that video clip. However, the documentary's Web site, www.638waystokillcastro.com, has a link to the clip.

Soaring Rates

"Florida homeowners fed up with soaring property insurance rates are signing petitions, brainstorming solutions and pressing lawmakers." "Homeowners demand action on soaring rates".

Here's a thought: folks might have considered not voting for the political party that is a wholly owned subsidary of the insurance industry. See "Objectivity at a premium". See

Sunshine

Republicans like to talk "open government", but they rearely walk the walk:

The first of several disputes started on Bush's first day in office, in 1999. He called meetings with the Senate president and House speaker - the two other most powerful leaders in state government - and refused to let reporters attend. Bush's general counsel claimed that "from a purely legal point of view, the press had no right to be there today," but Petersen and others strongly disagreed.

In 2000, the Brechner Center for Freedom of Information at the University of Florida took note of another meeting with legislators where Bush barred the press. In 2001, he was criticized for giving notice of meetings with lawmakers via e-mail as the meetings were taking place. By the time reporters arrived, the meetings had already ended. And in 2005, Bush prevented reporters from attending a morning meeting where an overhaul of the public school system was being discussed, according to the center.

Brilliant

"DOT to be state's planner by default?".

Rubio Unleashed

In "less than a month after officially becoming one of the state's most powerful politicians, the 35-year-old from West Miami is defending a spending spree with taxpayers' money that includes a $1 million increase in staff salaries and a $600,000 renovation in the Capitol that includes a new dining room for lawmakers." "Speaker's spending is raising eyebrows". See also yesterday's, "".

Palm Beach County

Read Palm Beach County's political news, including this heartbreaker "Attorney Peter Sachs loses a rain-making partner when Ron Klein leaves Boca-based Sachs Sax Klein to be sworn in next month as a Democratic member of Congress. Managing director Sachs also is 'not thrilled' about losing the firm's SSK logo."House speaker's ideas cost bucks".

More From The "Values" Crowd

"An estimated 374,000 uninsured children who qualify for state-subsidized health insurance are not enrolled. Critics have blamed KidCare's low numbers on policy changes that have confused or discouraged would-be applicants. The Legislature eliminated the program's outreach budget in 2003. This year, lawmakers slashed KidCare funding by $170 million because of flagging enrollment but at the same time rededicated $1 million for outreach." "Fight For Child Health Care Heats Up".

Adam Smith: "Political blogs are changing the rules of engagement. As they are being rewritten, are we better or worse off? Or are things just different now?"

The Times started the Buzz blog 1 1/2 years ago as a way to provide political news nuggets that often don't get past the space constraints of the newspaper. It quickly took off, and now is regularly read by everyone from the governor to local political activists. All the big daily newspapers in Florida have since followed suit.

At its best, the anonymous commenting we allow on the blog produces a witty, informed and free-wheeling conversation about Florida politics. At its worst, it's a vehicle for personal attacks and rumormongering that needs constant policing.

Watching Out for the Little Guy

So nice to have corporate America watching out for the little guy:

The St. Petersburg Times investigation last April, as well as an October report by the Democratic staff of the Senate Finance Committee, revealed how CAGW and other tax-exempt groups have been paid by corporations and trade associations to conduct lobbying and public relations campaigns.

CAGW, which bills itself as "America's No. 1 taxpayer watchdog," is famous for its Pig Book, an annual publication that lists federal programs the group considers wasteful. CAGW officials are widely quoted in the news media and are portrayed as independent critics of government waste.

The Times reported that CAGW traded on its good name by taking money to lobby. The group received about $100,000 from Mexican avocado growers for a campaign urging the Department of Agriculture to allow more avocados imported from Mexico.

It also took at least $245,000 from tobacco companies while urging the government not to regulate tobacco. It received thousands from a health club association while promoting tax breaks for health club memberships.

The recent report from the Finance Committee, published by the Democratic staff but backed by the Republican chairman, provides a glimpse behind the scenes as lobbyist Abramoff enlisted tax-exempt groups. It documented how he got CAGW and Americans for Tax Reform to publish articles and news releases on behalf of his clients - and then directed tens of thousands of dollars to the taxpayer groups.

Donna M. White, a HUD spokeswoman, said the agency knew of no lobbying that Abramoff or his associates had done there.

Now, though, e-mail and billing records turned over to a congressional committee by Greenberg Traurig, the Miami-based firm that employed Abramoff, say that Abramoff and others conducted a coordinated lobbying campaign at HUD in 2002-03 on behalf of Michigan's Saginaw Chippewa Indian tribe [one of the tribes swindled by Abramoff's crew].

The campaign involved lobbying contacts with at least three high-ranking HUD officials, including current HUD Secretary Alphonso Jackson, the records say.

Abramoff's team members boasted to colleagues about their influence at HUD, according to the internal records, which were made public by the House Committee on Government Reform.

Three top Martinez aides -- Deputy Secretary Jackson, Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing Michael Liu and Deputy Assistant Secretary Greg Hill -- were among those who met with lobbyists, the records say.

The nature and dates of the meetings are not disclosed in the records. And the names of many other officials who met with Abramoff or his partners are blacked out. ...

Abramoff's team bragged in the billing report that in October 2003, a HUD official asked if the tribe would be willing to host a visit by Martinez or President Bush the following spring.

Sen. Martinez's spokesman did not return repeated telephone messages seeking comment for this story.

Charlie Folding

And he so loves to dance.

"Citing hardships faced by many Floridians, Gov.-elect Charlie Crist on Saturday abruptly canceled his inaugural ball, the lavish centerpiece of a celebration that was expected to cost at least $2.5 million."

Crist also announced that he would follow the example of Gov. Jeb Bush and cap donations to the inaugural committee. Crist said he would return any money already received that exceeds the cap, which four years ago was $10,000 per donation.

Initially, Crist had asked his supporters, including high-profile lobbyists, to raise as much as $500,000 each to pay for a series of events, including a breakfast in Miami.

The Governor's Ball was scheduled to be held the night of Jan. 2 at the Civic Center in Tallahassee, with tickets costing $100 each.

CD 13 Update

Another development: Even though "Florida law requires that all sample ballots 'shall be in the form of the official ballot as it will appear at the polling place on Election Day'",

in an effort to save money, Supervisor of Elections Kathy Dent mailed a simplified sample ballot to every voter in the county.

The sample ballot was similar to what voters saw when they entered voting booths. But key differences between the two ballots may have helped stoke voter confusion and exacerbated problems voters had finding the District 13 congressional race on touch-screen machines, experts say. ...

Dent's decision to stray from the actual ballot in her sample ballot could bring further criticism to an office already under scrutiny.

It also raises questions about how elections are run across the state.

Osceola

"Judge rules in favor of single-member districts for Osceola".

Drilling

"If signed, this will allow the first drilling off Florida's shores in 20 years." "Senate approves oil, gas drilling off Panhandle". See also "Senate OKs tax reduction, opens drilling".

Bad Profiles

The state maintains public, online profiles of Florida's doctors and other health practitioners. But how accurate are the profiles?" "State's files on doctors fall short".

Insufferable Arrogance

Jebbie's legacy is multifaceted, and little of it is good. Two constant themes include: (1) his deliberate underfunding of programs for the disadvantaged (while at the same time cutting taxes on the wealthy and outsourcing work to political contributors), and (2) his insufferable arrogance.

Consider this editorial today:

Year after year, Gov. Bush and the Legislature have inadequately financed the state's social services agency. Whether for foster children, vulnerable adults or the mentally ill, any budget increases have failed to keep up with the increase in need. When the agency was ordered to move mentally ill inmates from jail to a hospital within 15 days, as state law requires, the agency simply ignored those court orders. Finally, last month, Pinellas County Circuit Judge Crockett Farnell fined Ms. Hadi, as DCF's top official, after she failed to comply with his orders to move 10 inmates from the Pinellas jail. He told The St. Petersburg Times that he is checking into whether he can charge or fine Gov. Bush: "He's the one who drives the ship."

"With all due respect to judges pounding their chest in their big black robes up on top of a big chair looking down and castigating Secretary Hadi, they're not governor. They're not the secretary. They're not the Legislature. There is a separation of powers ... I think that some of the temper tantrums that have taken place have gone too far." If only Gov. Bush could spare the public a final temper tantrum of his own.

trading on the famous family name, Bush gained entry to exclusive business ventures courtesy of wealthy Republicans."

Restoration

"Former felons barred from many jobs because of lost civil rights".

Siplin

"Despite felony, Siplin garners support". Yesterday: "Democrats stand by Siplin despite being convicted felon".

Earlier Primary

"Florida Democrats have generally embraced the push by state GOP leaders to move Florida's March presidential primary earlier in 2008 to increase the Sunshine State's influence in picking presidential nominees. But Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean recommends caution." "Moving primary earlier risks party penalties".

Whatever

And so it begins; one of the first of many odes to Jebbie: "Bush leaves powerful imprint on Florida".

Lessons Learned

The Sarasota Herald-Tribune editorial board:

Sarasota's lawsuit-tangled congressional election is far from its finale, but three lessons are clear so far:

- Rules governing ballot layout need improvements, despite extensive state reforms in 2001.

- The administering of elections would be simpler if all 67 counties in Florida used the same voting technology. Today, some have paperless touchscreens and others have paper-based optical scanners.

- It's time for the state and nation to face the music on current touchscreen technology. Though the paperless systems are appealing in many respects, their recount and audit shortcomings make them virtually unable to provide the level of trust that voters and election credibility require.

"Bright Idea"

"The House's point person" on insurance is Rep. Don Brown, R-Defuniak Springs; his

bright idea for the insurance crisis that the private market caused is to let the private market charge whatever rates it wants, because deregulation will encourage more companies to get back into the Florida market, increase competition and drive down rates. Actually, the state pretty much has let companies raise rates, drop policies and reduce coverage. The state couldn't afford the pain Rep. Brown imagines would produce all that gain for consumers.

Hate Crimes

"Lawmaker seeks to make beating up the homeless a hate crime".

Broken

"Campaign contributions in Florida are supposed to be limited to $500, but, unlike the federal government and almost half the states, businesses here are allowed to contribute as well as people. That makes it way too easy for special interests to get around contribution limits" "A broken system".

Orlando Gets Project

"At the end of a marathon session of voting, the U.S. Senate agreed to more than $3 billion in vet projects -- including $377.7 million for a new veteran's hospital in Orlando. Earlier in the night, its approval was in question because an anonymous senator had put a hold on the bill, potentially killing the measure until Congress' new session next month." "Vet hospital passes at 3 a.m.". See also "Congress approves veterans hospital".

FCAT Foolishness

"FCAT-like testing undermines purpose". "Higher education -- higher accountability".

Poor Tallahassee

"Outgoing governor argues his cuts have helped, not hurt, local economy ... Bush says eight years of privatization, reorganization and revision of state employment rules have not hurt the Tallahassee area's economy." "Jeb to Tallahassee: You're welcome". See also "With reform, Florida universities could be international leaders".

Rubio's Hypocrisy

"One of only three rules House Speaker Marco Rubio had for entries included in his book 100 Innovative Ideas for Florida's Future was that the ideas couldn't expand the role of state government. But one month into his term, the Miami Republican is catching heat for expanding his own operation." "House speaker's ideas cost bucks".