"This is not your father's Republican Party," said Sid Dinerstein, chairman of the party in Palm Beach County.

Rick Scott, a total newcomer to politics, has publicly avoided endorsing anyone. The race has been uncommonly nasty, in some quarters.

Cox Roush was hurt by revelations of a 2004 drunk-driving arrest along with criticism of her catering company doing some business with the Tampa Bay area party. Long-dismissed allegations of domestic violence against another candidate, Jefferson County state committeeman Dave Bitner, were also distributed via e-mail.

Other candidates have denied being behind any of the attacks. Thrasher said the bitterness is partly a result of "people hiring campaign consultants and digging things up, which I don't like" and partly because many of the 257 Republican committee members don't want a rerun of the party's recent scandals. Former GOP Chairman Jim Greer of Oviedo was elected with then-Gov. Charlie Crist's backing four years ago, but was forced out last year. He was indicted on charges of grand theft and money laundering involving party funds and secret business dealings.

The other contenders for the chairmanship were Sarasota County Chairman Joe Gruters and Tony DiMatteo, a Pinellas County state committeeman.

Scott trips over that Sunshine thing

"Scott's public schedule on Wednesday left out the fact that he was holding a dinner for a group of seven lawmakers at the governor's mansion that night."

The dinner wound up being more than social, as conversation drifted from small talk to a few legislative issues. Petersen argued that the meeting obligated the House Speaker legally to give public notice of it, since three or more House members were there discussing legislative business.

Katie Betta, spokeswoman for House Speaker Dean Cannon, said there was no notice, as the Speaker's office was not told of the event. But she also disputed Petersen's contention, noting that House rules require such notice only if the purpose of the meeting is for the lawmakers to agree on or take formal legislative action.

Concerns about the event triggered a lengthy meeting on Thursday between members of the capital press corps and Burgess, who said afterward that the governor appreciates the role of the media and looks forward to working with them.

"This is a period of adjustment," he said. "The press is still getting used to us, and we're still getting used to the press."

The best Ricky can do?

Ricky continues to have a serious problem finding top talent willing to work with him.

"Gov. Rick Scott stayed close to home for his latest batch of political appointees, choosing a pair of Tallahassee veterans for two key posts Friday. Shoring up a staff short on local talent, the man who campaigned as an outsider picked up expertise in the nuances of state government, along with a seasoned investigator familiar with the bureaucratic landscape."

Curious, but perhaps understandable, choices: one (Darling) missed a multi-billion dollar fraud scheme, and the other (Miguel) was the IG with the troubled SBA:

Darling was in charge of the state Division of Accounting and Auditing under CFO Alex Sink in 2008 when she fired him following an internal audit that found a lack of internal controls. The audit followed discovery of a bizarre plot by a man in Miramar to defraud the state of billions of dollars by diverting the money to Lebanon. The scheme was discovered in time and defused by alert bank employees -- not state financial experts -- but it cost Darling his $111,000-a-year state job.

Miguel, 47, served as chief inspector general under Charlie Crist as both attorney general and governor, and left the governor's office last November to take a similar post at the State Board of Administration, which manages the state pension fund.

Ricky flipping on Arizona-style?

"Looks like the Arizona-style anti-immigration wave that helped float the political fortunes of candidates like Gov. Rick Scott is getting a reality check in Florida."

Although Republicans walked in virtual lock-step during last year's elections on the need to import the Arizona immigration law, the idea is getting a rough reception in Tallahassee.

You might remember Scott's TV commercial: "Rick Scott backs Arizona's law; he'll bring it to Florida and let our police check if the people they arrest are here legally. That's common sense." ...

Florida's agricultural barons – who rely heavily on migrant workers – aren't supporting it.

Scott has avoided the issue since he seized it to tar-and-feather primary opponent Bill McCollum last summer. He didn't broach the subject last week at a Hispanic Leadership Network conference in Coral Gables meant to help Republicans improve outreach to Latino voters.

The governor has already scaled back his campaign promise to require all employers to use the federal E-Verify system to check the legal status of employees. The system has been known to produce false results, especially for women who change their last names after getting married.

Last week, Scott said he was fine with sticking to his executive order requiring state agencies to use the system and gave no indication he'd try to mandate private businesses use it as well.

He lied?

"Called before an angry Senate committee with questions about a new $50 million courthouse, 1st District Court of Appeal Judge Paul Hawkes spent a lot of time saying he could not recall the answers."

What did Sen. Mike Fasano, chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, think of Hawkes' appearance?

"He lied,'' Fasano said.

Bits and Pieces

Kevin Derby's "Political Bits and Pieces".

Good luck with that, Bob

"Former U.S. Sen. Bob Graham, who co-chaired a national commission on the Gulf oil spill, urges Florida to demand safety reforms." "Gulf oil spill a 'wake-up call'". See also "Graham: US needs watchdog for Big Oil" and "Bob Graham Wants Greater Standards, Regulations for Drillers".

Another fine idea by Ricky

"The E-Verify system, a federal database available to employers, failed to identify those workers as unauthorized 54 percent of the time, according to an audit released last year. Investigators discovered that was the percentage of illegal workers incorrectly deemed eligible for work. ... among those ultimately found to be here illegally — the group Scott is concerned about — its accuracy rate plunged." "E-Verify illegal-worker screening system has holes, report says".

GOP hypocrite has Florida connection

"The national Republican Party, coming off huge election victories but facing a $22 million debt and an internal war over identity, ousted chairman Michael Steele Friday and chose Wisconsin party chief Reince Priebus to lead in the run-up to the 2012 presidential race."

"Priebus will have to figure out how to navigate a GOP civil war in which conservatives and tea party disciples are trying to pull the Republican Party [even] further to the right".

Virtually unknown nationally, the Wisconsin GOP chairman has a high profile in his home state.

He's an attorney with the law firm Michael Best & Friedrich, where he is a partner specializing in corporate litigation, according to the firm's website. State and federal campaign finance records show the Wisconsin Republican Party has paid the firm at least $89,572 in legal fees during Priebus' tenure as state GOP chairman.

Priebus' political statements have sometimes contrasted with the law firm's actions.

He has criticized Obama's multibillion-dollar economic stimulus package as a costly failure; Michael Best & Friedrich has helped clients try to win stimulus funds.

Comments of the Week

"Comments of the Week: Kaufman, Giffords, West, Wasserman Schultz, E-Verify and dirty tap water".

"Republicans stuck in a deep rut of denial and inflexibility"

"Republican leadership is stuck in a deep rut of denial and inflexibility when it comes to Latino outreach and their party’s position on immigration. They seem to think that taking up kinder, gentler 'rhetoric' and reaching out on 'common values'—instead of revisiting their party’s extreme immigration policies—will do the trick." "GOP Hispanic Conference Highlights Deep Denial on Immigration". See also "Jeb to GOP: How to Appeal to Hispanics" and "GOP leaders: Anti-immigration stance hurts party".

Gambling

"A Senate bill is being written that could eventually bring Las Vegas-style destination resorts to the state and maybe even to Southwest Florida." "Bid is in for more Florida casinos; Senator to author bill calling for expansion".

Castor's Cuba coup

"For the first time in nearly 50 years, Tampa International Airport will be eligible to restore direct flights to Cuba, fulfilling a longstanding goal of local Cuban Americans forced to rely on Miami's airport because of federal restrictions."

And then there're the knuckle-draggers:

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican who took office earlier this month, said in a statement that the new policy toward Cuba was "unthinkable."

"I was opposed to the changes that have already been made by this administration and I oppose these new changes," Rubio said.

New Day

Update: "Day wins RNC co-chair".

"Following Reince Priebus’s win as chairman of the national Republican Party, Sharon Day of Fort Lauderdale, one of three Florida delegates to the Republican National Committee and secretary of the RNC, is about to run for co-chairman. Because of gender rules for national GOP officials, Priebus’ win removes a possible roadblock for Day." "Priebus win opens way for Day".

Ricky's self induced rail bind

"Florida would be mistaken if it did not proceed with its high-speed rail project, given the feasibility, funding and economic opportunity, the lead author of a national report on high-speed rail said Thursday. That's what she would tell Florida Gov. Rick Scott if she were asked, said Petra Todorovich, an urban planner with America 2050, a New York-based consortium of planners, scholars and policy makers. " "Planner says Scott should take high-speed rail money".

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Scott is getting conflicting advice from within his party about whether to seek bids to build a Tampa-Orlando rapid-rail line or abandon the concept. The case against taking federal money to build the train comes mostly from people and groups skeptical of government projects, especially transit, and most especially rail. Supporters, including this newspaper, believe that starting the nation's high-speed rail network in Florida will benefit the state's economy and image, at little risk to state taxpayers." "Making rail deal a winner".

Richard Scher, a University of Florida political science professor, called it a power grab.

"My guess, and it's purely a guess, is this is a very calculated move on Scott's part. I would say he is interested in grabbing as much power as he can in an attempt to control the direction of the state,'' he said. ``He's trying to show these guys that he intends to be the boss.''

But he's not.

Foppery2012


"State Senate President Mike Haridopolos has made it official: He's running for U.S. Senate. It's not much of a surprise, but he's already launched a website Mike2012.org, and he has a political committee called Friends of Mike H." "State Sen. Mike Haridopolos officially eyes 2012 Senate race". See also "Mike Haridopolos raising money for U.S. Senate bid" and "Haridopolos launches bid for U.S. Senate against Nelson".

Scott "backtracks" on yet another promise

Ricky seems to have ... ahem ... revised "his campaign pledge to require all employers to run the names of new hires through a federal database called E-Verify to confirm that they were in the country legally. ... [Scott has] done nothing yet to compel private businesses, many of whom don’t like the system, to do the same. Thursday, he gave no indication he would force the issue." "Gov. Rick Scott steps back a bit from E-Verify pledge".

Haridopolos promises "dramatic cuts to health care and education"

Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos - and would-be U.S. Senator - "said policymakers would be passing a budget this spring without any new tax increases, which means they would have to make dramatic cuts to health care and education to make the math work." "Florida Senate president: Cuts in education funding are likely".

"Foxes guarding the henhouse"

The Tampa Tribune editorial board defaults to its "the Chamber of Commerce" can't be wrong mode this morning: ""

Many environmentalists are discouraged by Gov. Rick Scott's appointments to key positions. Understandably so.

He picked a development official to head the Department of Community Affairs, which enforces the state's growth management laws. He selected a shipbuilding executive who has defended polluters to lead the Department of Environmental Protection.

Both men are attorneys. Both served on transition teams for Scott that made some controversial proposals, including combining the DCA, DEP and the Department of Transportation. So it is logical to conclude Scott, who appeared indifferent to Florida's natural riches during his campaign, wants the foxes guarding the henhouse.

That may be so. But it is also possible that these smart, experienced business leaders will embrace their assignments and find better ways to safeguard Florida.

"" "".

Term limits

Nancy Smith: "Want a laugh? A couple of legislators are trying to tell us if we want better government, we have to keep them in office longer." "Don't Change Term Limits".

Mudslinging in RPOF race

"As Saturday's election of a new Republican state chairman approaches, the attacks on the candidates have intensified." "Republicans' party-boss fight to end Saturday". See also "Cox-Roush/Bitner Against the Field" ("RPOF duo decries 'personal attacks'; more revelations surface about ex-lawmaker").

More: "Media Mavens Anoint Favorites in RPOF Race".

Putnam thinks ahead

Adam has the Hispanic vote on his mind: "Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, who promotes an industry heavily dependent on migrant workers, said Thursday that Florida can't copy Arizona's hotly controversial immigration law because the states' immigration problems are different." "Putnam: Fla. can't copy Ariz.'s law".

"You pay the cash; they carry it away"

Stephen Goldstein: "Gov. Rick Scott is giving Florida "the business" by turning the state over to business."

The first principle in Scottland is: Government can do no right; business can do no wrong. Under his leadership, with a lapdog, Republican-controlled Legislature, we'll become a corporate state — a catastrophe. Under the cover of creating jobs, they want to rewrite the framework and responsibilities of government in the name of cash-and-carry capitalism: You pay the cash; they carry it away.

3 picture IDs needed at the door

This is a genuine laff riot: Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush will speak to "Republicans gathering in South Florida [at the posh Biltmore Hotel] to improve the party's outreach to Hispanic voters will tackle trade, education - and the elephant in the room, immigration - at a conference organized by the new Hispanic Action Network." "Republicans seek more Latino outreach". See also "Jeb Bush guides Republican outreach to Latinos".

Entrepreneurship

"Thousands may be victims in Orlando telemarketing scam".

Scott has created "a bureaucratic nightmare"

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board write that "the real-world impact of [Scott's] unilateral, top-down approach that requires his office to approve all pending state rules and contracts over $1 million is hitting home: Hundreds of routine regulations are in limbo, and hundreds of millions in road projects could be stalled. Scott is learning on the job, but this is a bureaucratic nightmare." "Bogged down from the top".

In an effort to streamline government and create jobs, Scott has bogged down Tallahassee and placed countless workers at risk in less than two weeks. His spokesman, Brian Burgess, says the new governor merely "wanted to make sure nobody tried to buy another state airplane or build another Taj Mahal courthouse during the transition period." But Scott's executive orders are sledgehammers when scalpels would have been more useful.

The governor didn't tailor his efforts to catch only those contracts or rules under consideration since Election Day. He did not set reasonable thresholds on the types of rules or the size of contracts. Nor has he been transparent on how he will apply his subjective economic criteria on spending and rule proposals already authorized by the Legislature and the previous administration.

Which explains the results

"Study: 2010 political ads set record in negativity".

"Record year of bankruptcy cases"

"Central Florida recorded its second straight record year of bankruptcy cases in 2010, according to the final data released this week by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. In the end, the 2010 tally beat last year's record by nearly 15.5 percent, according to court figures. Central Florida bankruptcies topped the 2009 mark by late November." "Orlando area sees second straight record year of bankruptcies".

Another billionaire pushing voters around

"Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Commissioner Natacha Seijas are slated to face voters in a March 15 recall election to decide whether to oust them."

The recall drives erupted amid a public outcry last fall after commissioners adopted a new budget, proposed by the mayor, that raised the property tax rate while handing pay raises to most county employees. Miami billionaire businessman Norman Braman took the lead in the campaign to oust the mayor. He hired professional consultants who gathered 95,499 petitions, about 43,000 more than the minimum needed to force a recall election.

While Ricky fumbles, Obama acts ...

The Miami Herald editors: "When Interior Secretary Ken Salazar came to South Florida for the annual Everglades Coalition Conference last week he brought a terrific gift along: A plan for a large national wildlife refuge north of Lake Okeechobee to preserve the ecologically diverse Florida prairie and livelihoods of the area's ranchers." "Interior smiles kindly on Florida".

Thank you, Mr. Obama.

"Longer on rhetoric than substance"

The Palm Beach Post editorial board acknowledges that they

must blame our industry, the media, print and broadcast, for promoting politicians in both parties who are much longer on rhetoric than substance. Last week, new Congressman Allen West made the talk-show rounds. For his chief of staff, Rep. West first picked talk-show demagogue Joyce Kaufman, who has proclaimed that "if ballots don't work, bullets will." They are soulmates. Rep. West told a rally, "We need to be well-prepared and well-armed because this government is a tyrannical government.

Scott's "campaign rhetoric often falls short of reality"

The Sun Sentinel editorial board: "Well, it sounded like a good idea. Sell off the state's two-plane fleet, use your own private jet and make good on a campaign promise, all while making a statement about being fiscally responsible and reaping the benefits of less government and lower costs. Unfortunately, as Gov. Rick Scott is learning, campaign rhetoric often falls short of reality." "Governor's campaign promise gets a reality check".

Perhaps they'll do better next time

"Florida's role in Civil War larger than in history books".

Negron to the rescue of banks "churning out foreclosures"

"Critics of lending institutions and law firms specializing in churning out foreclosures say the state government isn't doing enough to help keep Floridians in their homes."

Florida ranks third in the nation for foreclosures, and its processes are "in total disarray," one of the slides in the presentation declared. Florida also leads the nation in the percentage of homeowners who are "seriously delinquent" on their mortgages, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Florida entrepreneurs in action

"Florida Crystals Corp. will be able to lease about 1,700 acres of sugar cane land in the Everglades for $61 per acre, two years after it blasted one of its rivals in the sugar industry for trying to lease land at a similar rate." "Water district rents land to Florida Crystals; rival says deal shortchanges taxpayers".

Another day at the (public employee) office

"Sarasota officer hit by suspect after car chase".

The poor fellow probably expects a (real) pension when he retires.

Yaaawwwnnn

Mike Thomas struggles to make a point this morning: "Exaggerated predictions about global warming hurt the cause".

Convenient confidential criminal allegations

"The public will probably never know who prompted the Broward Sheriff's Office investigation of County Commissioner Sue Gunzburger last summer as she ran for reelection."

Sheriff Al Lamberti's investigation of Gunzburger came at a damaging time -- smack in the middle of the toughest campaign fight of her life. The sheriff's investigation largely focused on business that Gunzburger's late husband did with the county during the 1990s, the documents show. ...

The investigative file is rife with campaign-related tidbits that went nowhere. ...

Gunzburger, no friend of the sheriff's, denounced him last summer for opening the probe, saying he abused his power and misused his office, and saying his motivation was to ruin her chance for her reelection to her District 6 seat in South Broward.

"A matter of chance"

Fred Grimm: "Can Florida's gaming-machine law be enforced? It's a matter of chance".

said budget writers in the Senate were "struggling'' to account for a shortfall in tax collections now approaching $4 billion.

"Tax cuts are not part of our equation at this point,'' said Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island.

His comments came just a day after Scott told his fellow Republicans in the Senate there was no difference between their agendas.

Tax cuts are an integral piece of Scott's 7-7-7 plan, his campaign promise to create 700,000 jobs in seven years. Those jobs are in addition to the one million new jobs that state economists already expect to come to Florida during the same time.

Scott's plan calls for phasing out corporate income taxes. The 5.5 percent tax rate would be reduced to 3 percent in the first year at a cost to the state of about $835 million.

Scott also wants to cut property taxes by $1.4 billion this year and another $1.4 billion over the next six years.

"And it could get larger still"

"Florida’s budget deficit got a little larger Wednesday, with a state economist adjusting previous projections up slightly to $3.62 billion. And it could get larger still." "Florida’s Budget Hole Deepens to $3.62 Billion".

Ring takes lead in attack on public employee pensions

"Sen. Jeremy Ring, D-Margate, said Wednesday he is waiting for facts before he begins crafting legislation on pension reform -- but in the debate so far, both sides claim they have 'facts' on their side." "Pension Reform Debate a Fight Over Facts".

The Rick Scott effect

"Under a new policy created amid political turmoil, fewer city employees will be allowed to speak to reporters." "Miami city manager clamps down reporters' access".

After all, it is her job

"The office of Attorney General Pam Bondi yesterday asked the U.S. District Court to dismiss a lawsuit challenging Amendment 6, one of two so-called “Fair Districts” amendments that limit the legislature’s ability to gerrymander districts, saying the court lacks jurisdiction in the case." "Bondi asks court to dismiss anti-Amendment 6 lawsuit".

Rod's "unsurprising priorities"

"Newly elected Florida Democratic Party chairman Rod Smith outlined some unsurprising priorities for his party’s shrunken state House delegation Tuesday: rebuilding the party infrastructure at the local level, making sure Florida breaks for Barack Obama in 2012 and keeping Bill Nelson as Florida’s senior senator." "Democrats’ new chair plans to turn party’s fortunes in ‘the most malapportioned state in the South’".

But fraudsters are fine

"The Republican Party of Florida today unveiled its new website, rpof.org, laying out a host of information about the party and its values. Among the party’s platform, according to the site, is a belief in 'equal opportunity for all,' but the text makes no mention of equality for gays and lesbians. ... The lack of recognition for gays and lesbians in the sentence mirrors an executive order Republican Gov. Rick Scott issued immediately after being inaugurated last week." "New Republican Party of Florida website touts ‘equal opportunity,’ doesn’t mention gays or lesbians".

Scott's "delaying job-creation"

"The Florida Senate's Democratic leader says Gov. Rick Scott's 90-day freeze on state contracts is delaying job-creation."

Sen. Nan Rich of Weston on Wednesday called upon the new Republican governor, who ran on a job-creation platform, to lift his hold on $400 million in transportation contracts approved before he took office last week.

Jeb Bush has already blazed the trail. Florida's governor has been an aggressive privatizer, and as The Miami Herald put it after a careful study of state records, "his bold experiment has been a success — at least for him and the Republican Party, records show. The policy has spawned a network of contractors who have given him, other Republican politicians and the Florida G.O.P. millions of dollars in campaign donations."

What's interesting about this network of contractors isn't just the way that big contributions are linked to big contracts; it's the end of the traditional practice in which businesses hedge their bets by giving to both parties. The big winners in Mr. Bush's Florida are companies that give little or nothing to Democrats. Strange, isn't it? It's as if firms seeking business with the state of Florida are subject to a loyalty test.

So am I saying that we are going back to the days of Boss Tweed and Mark Hanna? Gosh, no — those guys were pikers. One-party control of today's government offers opportunities to reward friends and punish enemies that the old machine politicians never dreamed of.

Your tax dollars at work

"Emotions began to run high during the first-ever meeting of the House Federal Affairs Subcommittee on Wednesday, as a line was clearly drawn between Democrats and Republicans over state lawsuits against federal health care reform and new water standards imposed on Florida." "Republicans and Democrats battle over lawsuits against federal government".

St. Johns caucus

"Four months after pledging to use his political clout to help heal the St. Johns River, state Sen. John Thrasher, R-St. Augustine, has made good on his promise. As The Florida Times-Union reported earlier today, the caucus met for the first time yesterday in Tallahassee, with 16 legislators from counties that border the river in attendance." "Thrasher makes good on promise to create St. Johns caucus".

Early sign that Scott favors politics and ideology over competence

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "Under the Florida Constitution, the nominating commission must send the governor at least three finalists from among the applicants and no more than six. The 4th DCA commission sent four - three judges from Palm Beach County and another from St. Lucie County. All are well-qualified. But Gov. Scott has asked for two more names. More arrogantly, he has asked for all the applications of candidates who didn't make the cut. Commission members will meet Friday to decide how they will respond."

The correct response would be a letter to the governor explaining that the commission has followed the law and will send no more names. Governors overstep in this manner only when they are looking for more ideologically compatible or politically helpful nominees, or are trying to reward political cronies. ...

Scott's demand is a bad early sign that he favors politics and ideology over judicial competence.

"Republicans cannot sweep it under the rug"

"Anger boiled and lawmakers left dissatisfied with the answers they got Wednesday as senators grilled judges and state officials about the $49 million 1st District Court of Appeal building in Tallahassee." "Senators grill officials about $49-million DCA". See also "Appeals Court on Trial in Senate, Judges Plead Innocent".

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "The two appellate judges most closely tied with the building of the opulent 'Taj Mahal' courthouse in Tallahassee apologized Wednesday, and the Florida Senate president suggested it is time to move on. But Republican legislative leaders — whose predecessors conspired with the judges to create this scandal — cannot sweep it under the rug."

Meanwhile, the JQC is exploring the nature of the cozy relationship between Hawkes and Thomas and the Peter R. Brown Construction Co., the lead contractor for the courthouse.

No political favors ... I swear

"The son of deceased conservative activist and millionaire Ralph Hughes told a federal grand jury Wednesday his father received no political favors for loaning $500,000 to the wife of state Sen. Jim Norman." "Hughes' son testifies on loan to Norman's wife".

I feel safe

"Scott impressed with Fla.'s readiness for hurricanes".

Haridopolos' half-flop foppery

After being tagged by Paula Dockery for "trying to rile up tea party angst" about rail funding ("Haridopolos switch could hurt high-speed rail"), Haridopolos responds with a half-flop. See "Haridopolos open to high-speed rail if private sector antes up".

12 years of RPOF rule

"The homeless population in Florida increased by 11 percent from 2008 to 2009, according to a report issued Wednesday. The increase was tied to the state's rising rates of unemployment, house foreclosures and housing-cost burden, which were higher than the national average." "Florida economy blamed for rise in homeless population".

Gambling man

Howard Troxler: "You want more casinos in Florida? Fine by me, on one condition: That they not be a source of money for the government." See what he means: "Gambling to pay for government: 'Our crutch and our drug'". See also "Critics Wager Against Florida Casino Expansion".

When the levee breaks

"The Broward County section of the East Coast Protective Levee fails to meet certification standards for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, according to an engineering assessment issued late last year. In addition to raising safety concerns, failing to meet those federal standards could lead to inflated flood insurance costs in Weston, Coral Springs, Sunrise, Pembroke Pines and Broward's other western communities." "Report: Levee not up to scratch".

Whether Florida is ready to become the next casino state is "too early to tell," said Sen. Dennis Jones, R-Seminole, chairman of the committee that heard the report authorized by Senate President Mike Haridopolos.

Earlier this week, Haridopolos said he thinks there is a "50-50 chance" of the Legislature approving casino games this year.

Under the plan, Florida would allow four to five casino resorts to bid for a chance to operate full casinos, including slot machines, blackjack, roulette, baccarat and craps. The bidders would pay a $50 million application fee and be offered an exclusive contract to operate the games, with the resorts at least 75 miles apart.

Florida's gambling strategy never looked so ill-conceived as last week, when Las Vegas gambling magnate Sheldon Adelson dangled the possibility of a $3 billion investment like fruit ripe for picking.

Adelson envisions a $3 billion Vegas-style casino in Miami Beach, an oceanfront destination casino of the kind that would entice high rollers from New York, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago; not the sort of gamblers likely to opt for a 10-mile taxi ride to a slot machine warehouse attached to an aging dog track.

Florida's new governor flirted with reality last week, albeit briefly, indicating he might be open to rethinking state gambling policies. He quickly retreated, but surely a $3 billion promise has a certain resonance for a governor who promised to run the state like a business and to get rid of mindless, business-stifling regulations.

RPOFers fight health care reform

"Senate Republicans on Tuesday took the latest step to battle federal health care in Florida's constitution, one prong in state officials' multifaceted attack on President Obama's Affordable Care Act." "Senate GOP wages war on new health-care law".

Hello, Hello ... is this Waffle House HQ?

"Scott says he's working phones to bring businesses to state". See also "Scott: We're already bringing in new businesses" ("The governor said he already has one corporation interested in bringing its headquarters to the state, which he hopes to announce shortly. He gave no details".)

"RPOF Family Feud"

"Amid anonymous attacks, there's no clear front-runner in field of five candidates for party chairman". "RPOF Family Feud: Fluid and Ferocious".

Growth bill "fix"

"A Senate panel approved a fix for a 2009 law loosening state planning requirements and controls on urban sprawl that a judge has ruled unconstitutional. The Community Affairs Committee split the law into three measures, resolving the violation of a requirement that limits each bill to a single subject."

The 2009 law, favored by development and business interests, abolished the concurrency requirement in what are termed "dense urban areas." Environmentalists, growth management advocates and many local government officials opposed that provision because it defines dense urban areas so broadly as to include rural communities in many instances.

Glowing report

"FPL told federal regulators that it is making strides in improving 'safety culture' at Turkey Point and St. Lucie County nuclear plants." "FPL touts steps for safer plants".

"Hope and sadness"

"A year later, hope and sadness for Haitian evacuees".

You might try increasing wages

"States that crack down on illegal immigrants should also help farmers who need seasonal labor, the nation's largest farm lobbying group said today." "Farm lobbying group cautions states on immigration".

Nelson issues plea for greater civility

"U.S. Bill Nelson issued a plea for greater civility in political discussion during a town hall meeting in Tampa Tuesday – a meeting for which Nelson said there were unusual security precautions, including having plainclothes officers present." "Nelson, accompanied by police officers, calls for greater civility".

Chamber does lunch with West

"Guests at the West Boca Chamber breakfast were appreciative of Rep. Allen West's promises to help business in Florida, but gave mixed reviews to his discussion of bipartisanship." "West gets praise for business policies, mixed reviews on political rhetoric".

Saint Marco

"Enough of the Marco Rubio for vice president chatter."

Florida's newly elected senator spoke with Panama City radio host Burnie Thompson last week and batted down the 2012 running mate speculation. The Miami Republican said he is not even leaving the door open a crack to that possibility.

Fl-oil-duh

The Saint Petersburg Times editors: "A report singles out BP for mistakes but also found that the government lacked any real capacity to ensure the safety of offshore drilling operations." "Call to action on oil drilling". See also "Graham warns against drilling near Florida".

Ricky in a rail bind

"With Gov. Rick Scott and Senate President Mike Haridopolos indicating they don't want to put any state money into a high-speed rail line connecting Tampa to Orlando, the pressure is on private companies to pick up Florida's $280 million tab for the project." "Senate told building first high-speed rail gives state economic edge". Related: "Legislators Stress Jobs, Funding for High-Speed Rail Project".

RPOFer PSC unanimously sides with FPL

"When a reconstituted Public Service Commission faced Florida Power & Light on Tuesday, it went against its own staff's recommendation and unanimously sided with FPL. At issue was whether to review the utility's profits, which exceeded a cap of 11 percent." "Public Service Commission sides with FPL over earnings review".

Smith speaks

"New Party Boss Rod Smith Shares His Vision With House Dem Caucus". See also "Democrats’ new chair plans to turn party’s fortunes in ‘the most malapportioned state in the South’".

Assault on Florida unions continues

"Yes, Unions, Pension Reform is Coming".

West rejects "more civil rhetoric"

"Rep. Allen West, R-Fort Lauderdale, gave an 'impromptu press conference' before a speaking engagement Tuesday morning, mostly dealing with the Tucson shootings. He rejected calls for more civil rhetoric, and said that those making the calls were grandstanding, according to the Sun-Sentinel’s account." "West on Tucson vs. West on Fort Hood".

Arizona-style

"Florida lawmaker wears passport to protest Arizona-style immigration law".

Arduin and Carter at the trough

"Two top advisors to Gov. Rick Scott were paid more than $250,000 by the Republican Party of Florida for two months worth of work, new campaign records show. Party filings turned in on Monday show that a company run by Mary Anne Carter, who was recently hired as Scott's chief policy advisor, was paid nearly $176,000 at the end of December. A company run by Donna Arduin, who led Scott's economic advisory team, was paid nearly $77,000." "Two top advisors to Scott paid more than $250,000 by party".

And there are many ...

"CFO Atwater on ‘Taj Mahal’: ‘One of the great embarrassments for Florida government’".

Thank you, Mr. Obama

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "Restoring the Everglades depends on cleaning up Lake Okeechobee. Last week, the federal government dealt itself into that game in a big way." "Everglades restoration: Last big piece is big lake".

Haridopolos bowing at alter of teabaggery

"Sen. Paula Dockery, R-Lakeland, said Tuesday that Haridopolos' shift on the topic was sending them the wrong message and could have a chilling effect on how much money the competing companies were willing to bid."

But the high-speed rail project has more protections for Florida taxpayers, she said, and should be the project that "fiscal conservatives" support — a veiled shot at Haridopolos, who she said is trying to rile up tea party angst over the project.

Sembler speaks

"Some of the nation's top Republican fundraisers, including Mel Sembler of St. Petersburg, are trying to oust Michael Steele, the chairman of the national GOP, saying he has mismanaged finances and threatens the party's chances in the 2012 presidential election." "GOP fundraisers urge Steele's ouster".

Scott fumbling proposed rules

"Scott's office is trying to rapidly develop procedures for reviewing 900 proposed rules – 53 of which were almost ready to take effect -- and hundreds of contracts worth over $1 million. All were put on hold by the new governor's office in order to get a better handle on contracts going out the door and rules taking effect." "Hundreds of state rules, contracts caught in freeze". Related: "New lottery game, Keys septic rules OK'd; other regulations to get public forum".

"Expanding the right to carry guns openly in Florida"

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "Just a week ago, political momentum appeared to be building in Florida behind a new bid to loosen what's left of the state's limits on guns. ... Last week a group dedicated to expanding the right to carry guns openly in Florida held rallies around the state, bolstered with a statement of support that Gov. Rick Scott made during his campaign. Key legislators, including Republican state Sen. Thad Altman of Melbourne, have said they would seek passage of a bill this year allowing holders of concealed weapons permits in Florida to carry their guns openly." "Don't loosen gun laws".

"Sunshine State is No. 1 in corruption"

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board: "Gov. Scott, his staff and high-ranking legislators should spend some time contemplating this passage from the grand jury's report:"

"Since 2000, Florida's three federal United States Attorney's Office districts had more public corruption convictions than any other state's combined district totals. According to one witness ... Florida led the nation in the number of federally convicted public officials from 1998 through 2007." Florida had an 8 percent edge over the next closest state, New York, the report said.

So the Sunshine State is No. 1 in corruption -- at least as measured by federal convictions. The possible consequences of this dubious distinction also are discussed in the report. "When the Legislature fails to act after its own members flagrantly abuse their positions, the citizens lose respect, faith and interest in government," the report said. "Vigorously attacking public corruption will begin to repair this breach of trust."

Scott has taken some initial steps to respond to the grand jury and begin restoring public trust. But he needs to go further and prepare to lead the charge for legislation that will strengthen Florida's anti-corruption laws and ethical standards.

The grand jury provided a good blueprint. Its recommendations include increasing penalties for public officials convicted of corruption charges, expanding the definition of "public employees" to include workers for private contractors engaged in government work and increasing the powers of the state Ethics Commission.

Currently, private contractors are beyond the reach of corruption laws.

Last week, new Congressman Allen West made the talk-show rounds. For his chief of staff, Rep. West first picked talk-show demagogue Joyce Kaufman, who has proclaimed that "if ballots don't work, bullets will." They are soulmates. Rep. West told a rally, "We need to be well-prepared and well-armed because this government is a tyrannical government."

Florida's escalating right wing attack on pensions (and unions)

"The war of words over reforming state and local pension funds heated up Monday as the head of one of the state's largest unions said that the system is not broken and doesn't need fixing."

But Sen. Jeremy Ring, D-Margate, the Senate committee chairman who is preparing legislation to impose new limits on cities and counties pension plans, said he disagrees with [Rich Templin, political director of the AFL-CIO] that no problem exists.

RPOFer money machine

"Just before and after its big win at the polls in November, the Florida Republican Party collected big and spent event bigger: $9.4 million. New campaign-finance reports show the party spared little expense on consultants, travel, and the nearly $3 million inauguration of new Gov. Rick Scott."

The party spent more than the $7.7 million it raised from a who's who of special interests in the state Capitol: Blue Cross Blue Shield ($525,000); Florida Power & Light's Nextera Energy ($250,000); U.S. Sugar Corp. ($200,000.00); Florida Crystals ($175,000) and Amway founder and school voucher champion Richard Devos ($100,000).

What did those donors want in return for all their contributions?

"They want good government,'' Thrasher said.

Will Florida go Arizona-style?

"Gov. Rick Scott's campaign pledge to bring an Arizona-style immigration law to Florida faces an uncertain future in the Legislature, with the bill's chief Senate sponsor expressing doubts about the controversial measure." "Florida lawmakers size up Arizona-style bill". See also "", "Lawmakers take up immigration reform", "Senators Hold First Immigration Meeting", "Debate Over Pension Reform Heats Up" and "How close to Arizona's will be a Florida immigration law?".

That silly Constitution thingy

"State Rep. William Snyder, R-Stuart, one of the state’s chief proponents of an Arizona-style immigration law, has ties to an organization that is pursuing the repeal of the 14th Amendment in order to restrict the ability of immigrant children to obtain U.S. citizenship." "State rep. pushing Ariz.-style immigration law has ties to organization working to repeal 14th Amendment".

Ros-Lehtinen to Haiti

"The new chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee is traveling to Haiti." "Ros-Lehtinen makes trip to Haiti".

Bits and Pieces

Kevin Derby: "Political Bits and Pieces".

Teachers at work

"As in years past, Florida looked worst in the school spending category, where it got an F this year. But it earned a B plus for spending equity, meaning its limited funding is shared fairly equally among its school districts. The Florida Education Association, the state teachers union, said it was happy with Florida's high ranking on the Quality Counts report and hoped it would improve the state's showing in "the areas where the state lags behind, like in properly funding and investing in our schools," said Mark Pudlow, the association's spokesman." "Florida ranks 5th in new national report on education quality". See also "Florida Climbs to No. 5 on U.S. School Report Card" and "Florida ranks fifth in new national report on education quality, gets B-minus grade".

The temerity of those minimum wage earners

"Two legal groups sued Florida's labor agency Monday, claiming the state failed to raise the state's minimum wage by six cents per hour this year to keep up with inflation." "Florida sued for failing to raise minimum wage".

No shame

"Conference co-chairs Mark Perry of the Florida Oceanographic Society and Julie Hill-Gabriel of Audubon of Florida downplayed Scott's absence, saying that the new governor had just taken office this week and had a lot on his plate. Other environmentalists said they're uncertain of the new governor's stance on the Everglades and other environmental issues. Scott told reporters on Friday that he wasn't aware of the conference." "Putnam praised by environmentalists gathered at Everglades meeting".

Don't expect a rate cut

"The proposed merger of Progress Energy Inc. and Duke Energy announced Monday would create the nation's biggest electric utility, but company officials aren't promising lower rates for Central Florida customers anytime soon." "Progress-Duke merger not likely to affect rates".

"Gruters’ involvement with the tarnished Buchanan campaign"

"Joe Gruters announced several endorsements for his candidacy to become the next chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, including from state Senate Majority Whip Anitere Flores, R-Miami, and Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton. ... But Gruters’ involvement with the tarnished Buchanan campaign hasn’t appeared to hurt him in the slightest." "Gruters announces several high-profile endorsements, despite ties to Buchanan allegations".

The right wing gets its back up ...

... and Mike Thomas is listening. Thomas strains to carry right wing water this morning in "Shooting rampage won't stifle political rhetoric".

More from The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Gun ban no solution"

Just water

"Declining Lake Okeechobee water levels once again threaten to generate water-supply ripple effects that spread throughout South Florida, leaving less water for thirsty crops and lawns as well as an ecosystem trying to rebound from years of abuse." "Lake Okeechobee's water level strains water supply".

To the extent anyone cares

"Rep. West: Security concerns shouldn't create police state".

Republicans eating their own

"The state agency in charge of building a new courthouse for the 1st District Court of Appeal is being asked to produce proof of expenditures in public meetings." "Public airing of "Taj Mahal" courthouse costs set".

"2010 brought out the worst in people"

"Political rhetoric has always been brash and rude, especially in election years, but 2010 brought out the worst in people, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor said when asked about the assassination attempt on a fellow congresswoman in Arizona." "Castor cites radio rhetoric, 'fringe' in Arizona shootings".

Haven't we had enough Arizona?

"The first of three immigration meetings set for Monday will be the Senate's first look at a debate over a comprehensive Arizona-style measure, a topic that Gov. Rick Scott made one of the biggest social issues of his campaign." "Florida Legislature to discuss immigration reform".

"New Gov. Rick Scott supports an Arizona-style law". "Lawmakers set for hearing on immigration issue".

Authority to freeze rules?

"Does Scott, or any governor, have the authority alone to freeze the implementation of rules? It's a process that begins when the Legislature passes a law and ends when regulators translate it into detailed guidelines that must be followed." "What does Scott's rules freeze mean?".

Warning to "foreclosure mills"

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "The 4th District Court of Appeal's recent decision to uphold a class-action lawsuit alleging that Plantation attorney David J. Stern charged excessive fees to homeowners fighting foreclosures should be a warning to other 'foreclosure mills.'" "Courts must serve scrutiny: Mortgage borrowers who were duped are now getting 'ripped off.'".

Merger madness

Bill Cotterell: "AHCA, APD, DOH and DCF face a merger".

Enough gerrymandering

"Even after their November drubbing, Democrats are viewing 2012 with a glimmer of hope because of a voter-approved 'Fair Districts' amendment that forbids partisan gerrymandering when Republicans draw new political boundaries for Florida next year." "Dems say that passage of 'Fair Districts' amendment will help them win congressional seat".

Never mind the constitution

The Saint Petersburg Times editors: "Scott and legislative leaders should signal to the Board of Education it can put off any fines for school not in compliance with class size requirements until lawmakers return to Tallahassee in March and abandon this plan all together." "Clean up the class size mess".

Recall fever

The Miami Herald editorial board: "The big question for commissioners is whether to put Ms. Seijas' name on the ballot alongside Mr. Alvarez or set a separate date for her recall vote. This should be a no-brainer: one election, two names on the ballot. It was voters' anger over spending that garnered sufficient petition signatures in both cases. Voters believe the county is over spending with Mr. Alvarez's budget, which raised property tax rates and included raises for most county employees. Ms. Seijas was among seven commissioners who voted for it." "One recall election, two names".

Ricky's favs

"As Rick Scott takes the reins of Florida government, some longtime political players find themselves marginalized or cut out of the decision-making loop altogether." "Scott Regime: Who's In, Who's Out?".

"Sobering reality"

"After the Pomp: Sobering Reality for Gov. Rick Scott".

Innocence panel

The Palm Beach Post editors: "Reduce wrongful convictions: Florida's new innocence panel must start to change the rules".

"Contaminated waterways"

"City tries yet again to find a way to clean up a tributary to the Miami River that is one of the state's most contaminated waterways." "Cleaning up Wagner Creek in Miami -- Florida's most polluted stream -- could cost millions".

One man's "freedom fighter"

"For some Cuban exiles, avowed militant Luis Posada Carriles is ... a patriot who has long battled a fearsome oppressor. To his foes, Posada is ... a dangerous force responsible for Havana hotel bombings, assassination attempts on Castro and one of the deadliest pre-9/11 airliner explosions."

"The trial also could underscore what critics consider the lax treatment Posada has received compared to others accused of orchestrating terrorist acts outside the U.S, and it will likely antagonize some of Miami's politically powerful Cuban-Americans, neither a welcome prospect for the Obama administration, which inherited Posada's case." "Fidel Castro foe finally going on trial in US".

Opponents of the law tried to turn the public against it with inflammatory catch-phrases ("death panels") and outright lies ("it's socialism," "a government takeover"). But more and more people now realize its provisions are long-overdue consumer protections and improvements to coverage and quality of care.

Even so, Republicans in Washington, D.C. and Tallahassee want to take away all your benefits under the federal law. Former Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum led a group of states in a lawsuit to declare the legislation unconstitutional. Congressional Republicans vow to "kill the bill," along with Florida Gov. Rick Scott and the state Legislature.

But opponents of the health reform legislation have not offered credible alternatives to it, except to invoke their tired refrain that "market principles" are the proper solution — the same market principles that caused our broken health-care system.

They try to make reality fit their small-minded, elitist, mean-spirited, failed economic ideology in spite of facts. The bottom line for them is always the bottom line, how much they can rake in at the public expense.

As a result of the anti-health-care initiative, the tea party emerged and helped sweep Republicans into office nationwide and in Florida.

Ask Congressional Republicans, heady with victory, what specific plan they propose to replace the health-reform law. The same goes for our new governor, a former health-care executive, and our overwhelmingly Republican Legislature. It's one thing to carp, quite another to come up with solutions.

The Republican/tea party already violated the Hippocratic Oath by trying to do harm in keeping the federal bill from becoming law and challenging it since it has been in effect. Don't let them do more damage by killing the bill entirely and taking away your benefits, or, someday soon, you'll again be at the mercy of insurance companies — and have only yourself to blame.

Sink stayin'

"Alex Sink is telling Democrats she's not going away. Sink, who narrowly lost her bid for governor in November, told party activists at a meeting in Orlando [Saturday] that she's going to be beside them as they work to regain ground in 2012. ... she won't rule out running for office again if the right opportunity comes up." "Sink tells state Democrats she's "not going away"".

Smith's in

"After ugly election year, Florida Democratic Party picks new chairman", "New party head tells Dems to stop pouting", "Rod Smith takes gavel to lead Florida Democrats, vows comeback for party" and "Rod Smith tapped as chairman for Florida Democrats".

RPOFer circular firing squad

"As the race for Republican Party of Florida chairman gets increasingly ugly, Palm Beach County GOP Chairman Sid Dinerstein and the four other announced candidates for the post all say the negativity isn't coming from them." "In heated race for Florida GOP chairman, candidates deny involvement in attacks".

'Glades

"Obstacles ahead for Everglades? Graham sees political hurdles to restoration".

Scott goes too far

The Sun Sentinel editorial board point out that Scott's disdain for government rules show "his inexperience and his lack of institutional knowledge." "State rules review goes too far".

Ricky thinks rules don't apply to him

Aaron Deslatte: "New Gov. Rick Scott says he has a commitment to government transparency and empowering the public to keep politicians on their toes."

There's a basic assumption behind state Sunshine laws like Florida's that the more information the public has, the more pressure will be applied on politicos to do the public bidding.

"I believe Floridians have a right to know. So I'm going to do as much as I can to create that right to know and get them access to information," Scott said last week. "The more people who know, the better decisions will be made."

But Scott seems to make a distinction between access to information and access to him, especially when capital reporters are concerned.

Alleged journalist calls firefighter pensions a "scam"

Mike Thomas channels the firefighter-hating Chamber of Commerce (not to mention his own editorial board) this morning. Thomas, unable to acknowledge that firefighters might actually have earned the right to defined benefit pension plans ('ya know, by doing that stuff that firefighter/EMT/Paramedics do everyday), whines from the confines of his large desk that "the reason is simple" that firefighters have managed to hold onto traditional defined benefit retirement plans:

Public safety unions are very organized and scream very loudly, particularly the firefighters. They have lots of time on their hands to work on campaigns, making them a very potent political force.

Ricky's schools are "a fraudster's dream"

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board warn: "Fasten your seat belts, educators. With Scott and Rhee controlling the education agenda in Florida, you could be in for a bumpy ride." "Scott should change focus of school reform".

Not so fast. As reported last month,

Scott's plan is radical because it's designed to get around a constitutional problem the state encountered a few years back when, during Bush's tenure, it attempted to create vouchers to send public school students to private schools. But Scott apparently believes that his proposal will slip through, in part because the money could be used for other public schools.

There are many flaws in Scott's proposal. But here's a biggie: It’s likely to be a fraud magnet.

As soon as the state starts handing families $5500 a year, it's virtually assured that enterprising thieves will devise various schemes to help them part with those funds, including by starting "independent" for-profit virtual schools, charter schools, and other predatory "educational" institutions. While the idea of privatizing the education system may seem like a big money saver, and no one really loves school bureaucracies, putting that much taxpayer money out there without adequate oversight (i.e. bureaucracy) is a formula for disaster.

It's not just a hypothetical harm, as charter schools in many states have demonstrated. Charter schools get paid by the number of kids they enroll, and they are free from much of the bureaucracy Republicans like to bash so much. All that money mixed with all that freedom hasn't produced much in the way of an education boost: Charter schools perform no better and often much worse than traditional ones. But they have produced a bumper crop of fraudsters.

As Ricky sleeps

The Saint Petersburg Times editorial board: "Scott and the Legislature need to realize that stronger oversight of prescriptions and pain management clinics is an essential step toward exposing physicians and sham clinics that conspire to dump boatloads of narcotics on the streets. Prescription drug abuse is a crime, and the costs in lives and taxpayer dollars have hit the crisis stage. The days of turning a blind eye are over." "Fight scourge of pain pill abuse".

Government hater on rampage in Arizona

"Meet Rep. Giffords' Alleged Shooter".

"Giffords, 40, is a moderate Democrat who narrowly won re-election in November against a tea party candidate who sought to throw her from office over her support of the health care law. Anger over her position became violent at times, with her Tucson office vandalized after the House passed the overhaul last March and someone showing up at a recent gathering with a weapon."

"The sheriff blamed the vitriolic political rhetoric that has consumed the country, much of it occurring in Arizona. Giffords expressed similar concern, even before the shooting. In an interview after her office was vandalized, she referred to the animosity against her by conservatives, including Sarah Palin's decision to list Giffords' seat as one of the top 'targets' in the midterm elections. 'For example, we're on Sarah Palin's targeted list, but the thing is, that the way that she has it depicted has the crosshairs of a gun sight over our district. When people do that, they have to realize that there are consequences to that action.'" "AZ shooting targets US congresswoman, kills 6".

More: "Florida's members of Congress react to shooting of Arizona Rep. Giffords".