The rampant voter fraud that has so far prevaded the Primary season is now extending to Florida; the state with the most suspected Voter fraud in the nation from the 2000 and 2004 Presidential elections. One of the longtime Voter Fraud tricks; is the double vote for people with two homes, the permanent residency in New York and New Jersey and a second home in Florida. These snowbirds are now under a microscope, due to the massive natiowide voter witch-hunt currently underway. Voters in New York who have second homes in Florida are currently being investigated for the upcoming Primaries in Florida and New York. Voter records can easily be obtained from the board of elections, in New York and Florida. Absentee ballots need to be requested from both Florida and New York, now with the internet it is fairly easy to check absentee ballots in both states. 

   New Hampshire is currently under going a re-count on both Democratic and Republican tickets from suspected voter fraud from the infamous diebold machines, that were responsible for the voter fraud in the Florida Presidential election in 2000. There is also suspected voter fraud from the Iowa caucus due to the use of electronic voting machines from Elron electronics. So far the preliminary reports from New Hampshire, are enormous amounts of vote fixing. During the ongoing re-count in New Hampshire, Hillsborough county has reported a vote change of 1869 votes, Clinton lost 675 votes in the re-count, Edwards lost 279 votes, Obama lost 679, and Richardson lost 236, this is just one county! Voter Fraud is becoming a huge National issue and all primaries are going to be suspected for Voter fraud.

  The Florida state law states the penalties for vote fraud as follows: A person who commits or attempts to commit any fraud in connection with voting, votes a fraudulent ballot, or votes more than once in an election can be convicted of a felony of the third degree and fined up to $5,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 5 years.”A person who commits or attempts to commit any fraud in connection with voting, votes a fraudulent ballot, or votes more than once in an election can be convicted of a felony of the third degree and fined up to $5,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 5 years.”

  The division of elections in Florida has a voter fraud hotline, 877-868-3737, where they can file a complaint of someone suspected of vote fraud. Clean elections are integral to a Republican form of government which is why the U.S. Military may get involved by utilizing the Provost Marshal, to restore the integrity of the National Election process. It is the job of the U.S. Military to guarantee a Republican form of government.

We urge you to go to the following post and help out if you can - “Progressive Democrats of America Hosting Orlando Convention Weekend“.

Please remember that the Florida Progressive Coalition's “Florida Netroots Awards — Nominations Now Open“.  There are so many excellent blogs that are not getting the recognition and readership they deserve.  Please take the time to let us know - via nominations - about some of the hidden gems out there.

As we noted yesterday, the October 2007 edition of Campaigns & Elections magazine, after talking “to state campaign staffers, Hill staffers and party insiders … about their must-reads, the links they check compulsively every day”, selected FLA Politics as one of ten local blogs in the country “every political insider should be reading right now.”

Our review of today’s Florida political news and punditry follows (remember, there is more after the jump).

Race to the fringe

“In their first debate in Florida, eight Republican presidential contenders in Orlando challenged one another’s conservative credentials.”  “GOP rivals trade jabs on values, Clinton“.  See also “Republicans on the attack“, “Rumble at the Rosen“, “Candidates battle to win hearts of conservatives“, “Rudy Giuliani, Mitt Romney defend credentials during GOP debate“, “Sparks fly at GOP debate“, “GOP hopefuls race to right at debate“, “GOP hopefuls debate in Orlando“, “GOP rivals argue who’s most conservative” and “Republican presidential candidates debate in Orlando“.  To the extent anyone cares: “Fred flopped, Rudy rocked“.

More: “GOP Chickenhawks candidates talk tough“

“In an interview after the Republican presidential debate, Fox News’ Carl Cameron tried to pin down Gov. Charlie Crist on a few things: Who won; will he endorse Rudy Giuliani; and will he seek a VP spot?  Crist, smiling at a national TV audience, dodged all three.”  “The elusive Charlie Crist“.

And this is just plain silly:

The rhinestone-encrusted elephant brooches sparkled as about 3,000 delegates awaited the eight GOP presidential contenders’ debate at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando.

Two doors down, 226 reporters watched the debate on five flat screen televisions.

That’s because they were not allowed to even enter the Gatlin Ballroom, except for FoxNews reporters who were seated on a platform overlooking the red, white and blue lit stage.

“It’s a virtual debate for reporters“.

Another Jebacy

The News-Journal editors - “Even as former Gov. Jeb Bush was pushing the state into a massive privatization of Medicaid, advocates were warning:”

Not so fast.

Bush didn’t listen. He wanted sweeping changes, statewide, and he wanted them rapidly. He didn’t want to hear that private networks weren’t ready to take on a huge influx of patients. He wouldn’t listen to those who worried about forcing a medically vulnerable population to choose among health plans to find the one that best meets their needs. He seemed to revel in the attention Florida got from other states for pushing ahead with changes with precious little evidence that they would save the state money. . . .

A new report by the Agency for Health Care Administration’s inspector general, Linda Keen, suggests the legislative caution was well-founded — and that Gov. Charlie Crist has inherited a mess. Bush’s “big hairy audacious” reforms, as he called them, aren’t working out too well.

“State should hit brakes in Medicaid experiment“.  The Sun-Sentinel editorial board: “Delay Medicaid Reform program statewide“.

Mel being coy with his kiss of death

“Martinez Now Free For Presidential Politics-But Not Saying With Whom“.

GOPers take it where they can find it

“Sure Republicans head into 2008 with an unpopular president, an unpopular war and no consensus on their best presidential candidate. But like manna from heaven, the Democratic presidential candidates’ boycott of Florida’s Jan. 29 primary has state GOP leaders giddy.”  “It’s a gloating old party“.

And then there’s this …

“House, Senate at odds as tax-cut deadline nears“.  See also “Chambers’ chasm endangers chance for tax changes” and “House GOP needs a helping hand from Dems today“.

Sex in the City (of Hialeah)

“A week after Hialeah Councilman Jose Caragol made headlines for an oral-sex-laced campaign slogan, his opponent in the race is wondering if the orange code enforcement notice left on her front door Thursday is a sheer ‘coincidence’ or an act of ‘retribution’ from the city.”  “Hialeah council hopeful questions complaint“.

Yaaaawn …

“GOP reaches out to Hispanics“.  See also “GOP not giving up on Latino voters“.

One third world nation to another

“There is hope that Florida’s fight with global warming will inspire Third World nations.”  “Fla. plan on climate upheld as example“.

Laff riot

Pamela Hasterok yesterday:

You would have thought the eight Republican candidates on stage were debating the boogeyman rather than each other. After all, Hillary Clinton wasn’t there.

Trying to break out of the pack, Republican candidates did everything but trash the furniture to win over the great lot of undecided GOP voters. On a night like Sunday, words matter and candidates searched for just the right ones to bring voters to their side.

“GOP candidates search for just the right words“.

Billary

“Bill Clinton told a Miami audience Sunday night why he thinks his wife is the best candidate for president.”  “Bill Clinton raises money at Miami rally“.

Boyd

Even “Boyd sees need for a change in mission“.

(Almost) prepaid

“Prepaid tuition plans won’t cover full costs at 3 state universities“.

The end of the world as we know it

“When the Legislature passed Florida’s Defense of Marriage Act several years ago, defining weddings by statute as the legal union of one man and one woman, former Sen. Daryl Jones of Miami made a thoughtful speech.”

Forget about gay marriage, Jones said. That’s what prompted the state law - Hawaii’s Supreme Court had ordered that state’s Legislature to show cause that marriage should be limited to heterosexuals, and there were rumblings of “civil unions” in a few other states - but Jones said the issue had broad societal implications.

Essentially, Jones said, a lot of people live together unmarried because that’s what they want, or because complications in their personal lives make it better for them. Like it or not, the “Father Knows Best” or “Leave it to Beaver” family model - in which Dad goes to work and dispenses timeless wisdom while Mom stays home and settles kiddie disputes - is of a bygone era, if in fact it was ever prevalent anywhere but on long-ago TV.

Jones predicted that the time would soon come when state government, Florida’s largest employer, would have to adapt its personnel policies to what’s going on in society.

This month, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink took a very small first step toward such an adaptation. She announced that employees of the Department of Financial Services may use sick leave to care for domestic partners.

“Sink takes one small step for domestic partners“.

We urge you to go to the following post and help out if you can - “Progressive Democrats of America Hosting Orlando Convention Weekend“.

Please remember that the Florida Progressive Coalition's “Florida Netroots Awards — Nominations Now Open“.  There are so many excellent blogs that are not getting the recognition and readership they deserve.  Please take the time to let us know - via nominations - about some of the hidden gems out there.

As we noted yesterday, the October 2007 edition of Campaigns & Elections magazine, after talking “to state campaign staffers, Hill staffers and party insiders … about their must-reads, the links they check compulsively every day”, selected FLA Politics as one of ten local blogs in the country “every political insider should be reading right now.”

Our review of today’s Florida political news and punditry follows (remember, there is more after the jump).

Race to the fringe

“In their first debate in Florida, eight Republican presidential contenders in Orlando challenged one another’s conservative credentials.”  “GOP rivals trade jabs on values, Clinton“.  See also “Republicans on the attack“, “Rumble at the Rosen“, “Candidates battle to win hearts of conservatives“, “Rudy Giuliani, Mitt Romney defend credentials during GOP debate“, “Sparks fly at GOP debate“, “GOP hopefuls race to right at debate“, “GOP hopefuls debate in Orlando“, “GOP rivals argue who’s most conservative” and “Republican presidential candidates debate in Orlando“.  To the extent anyone cares: “Fred flopped, Rudy rocked“.

More: “GOP Chickenhawks candidates talk tough“

“In an interview after the Republican presidential debate, Fox News’ Carl Cameron tried to pin down Gov. Charlie Crist on a few things: Who won; will he endorse Rudy Giuliani; and will he seek a VP spot?  Crist, smiling at a national TV audience, dodged all three.”  “The elusive Charlie Crist“.

And this is just plain silly:

The rhinestone-encrusted elephant brooches sparkled as about 3,000 delegates awaited the eight GOP presidential contenders’ debate at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando.

Two doors down, 226 reporters watched the debate on five flat screen televisions.

That’s because they were not allowed to even enter the Gatlin Ballroom, except for FoxNews reporters who were seated on a platform overlooking the red, white and blue lit stage.

“It’s a virtual debate for reporters“.

Another Jebacy

The News-Journal editors - “Even as former Gov. Jeb Bush was pushing the state into a massive privatization of Medicaid, advocates were warning:”

Not so fast.

Bush didn’t listen. He wanted sweeping changes, statewide, and he wanted them rapidly. He didn’t want to hear that private networks weren’t ready to take on a huge influx of patients. He wouldn’t listen to those who worried about forcing a medically vulnerable population to choose among health plans to find the one that best meets their needs. He seemed to revel in the attention Florida got from other states for pushing ahead with changes with precious little evidence that they would save the state money. . . .

A new report by the Agency for Health Care Administration’s inspector general, Linda Keen, suggests the legislative caution was well-founded — and that Gov. Charlie Crist has inherited a mess. Bush’s “big hairy audacious” reforms, as he called them, aren’t working out too well.

“State should hit brakes in Medicaid experiment“.  The Sun-Sentinel editorial board: “Delay Medicaid Reform program statewide“.

Mel being coy with his kiss of death

“Martinez Now Free For Presidential Politics-But Not Saying With Whom“.

GOPers take it where they can find it

“Sure Republicans head into 2008 with an unpopular president, an unpopular war and no consensus on their best presidential candidate. But like manna from heaven, the Democratic presidential candidates’ boycott of Florida’s Jan. 29 primary has state GOP leaders giddy.”  “It’s a gloating old party“.

And then there’s this …

“House, Senate at odds as tax-cut deadline nears“.  See also “Chambers’ chasm endangers chance for tax changes” and “House GOP needs a helping hand from Dems today“.

Sex in the City (of Hialeah)

“A week after Hialeah Councilman Jose Caragol made headlines for an oral-sex-laced campaign slogan, his opponent in the race is wondering if the orange code enforcement notice left on her front door Thursday is a sheer ‘coincidence’ or an act of ‘retribution’ from the city.”  “Hialeah council hopeful questions complaint“.

Yaaaawn …

“GOP reaches out to Hispanics“.  See also “GOP not giving up on Latino voters“.

One third world nation to another

“There is hope that Florida’s fight with global warming will inspire Third World nations.”  “Fla. plan on climate upheld as example“.

Laff riot

Pamela Hasterok yesterday:

You would have thought the eight Republican candidates on stage were debating the boogeyman rather than each other. After all, Hillary Clinton wasn’t there.

Trying to break out of the pack, Republican candidates did everything but trash the furniture to win over the great lot of undecided GOP voters. On a night like Sunday, words matter and candidates searched for just the right ones to bring voters to their side.

“GOP candidates search for just the right words“.

Billary

“Bill Clinton told a Miami audience Sunday night why he thinks his wife is the best candidate for president.”  “Bill Clinton raises money at Miami rally“.

Boyd

Even “Boyd sees need for a change in mission“.

(Almost) prepaid

“Prepaid tuition plans won’t cover full costs at 3 state universities“.

The end of the world as we know it

“When the Legislature passed Florida’s Defense of Marriage Act several years ago, defining weddings by statute as the legal union of one man and one woman, former Sen. Daryl Jones of Miami made a thoughtful speech.”

Forget about gay marriage, Jones said. That’s what prompted the state law - Hawaii’s Supreme Court had ordered that state’s Legislature to show cause that marriage should be limited to heterosexuals, and there were rumblings of “civil unions” in a few other states - but Jones said the issue had broad societal implications.

Essentially, Jones said, a lot of people live together unmarried because that’s what they want, or because complications in their personal lives make it better for them. Like it or not, the “Father Knows Best” or “Leave it to Beaver” family model - in which Dad goes to work and dispenses timeless wisdom while Mom stays home and settles kiddie disputes - is of a bygone era, if in fact it was ever prevalent anywhere but on long-ago TV.

Jones predicted that the time would soon come when state government, Florida’s largest employer, would have to adapt its personnel policies to what’s going on in society.

This month, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink took a very small first step toward such an adaptation. She announced that employees of the Department of Financial Services may use sick leave to care for domestic partners.

“Sink takes one small step for domestic partners“.

Please go to the following post and help out if you can - “Progressive Democrats of America Hosting Orlando Convention Weekend“.

The Florida Progressive Coalition's “Florida Netroots Awards — Nominations Now Open“.  There are so many excellent blogs that are not getting the recognition and readership they deserve.  Please take the time to let us know - via nominations - about some of the hidden gems out there; a good place to start would be BlogNetNews/Florida and Lefty Blogs - Florida.

On a separate note, we are pleased (and pleasantly surprised) to advise that the October 2007 edition of Campaigns & Elections magazine, after talking “to state campaign staffers, Hill staffers and party insiders … about their must-reads, the links they check compulsively every day”, selected FLA Politics as one of ten local blogs in the country “every political insider should be reading right now.”

Please check out “Old World Wolf“, a “blog that focuses on Southwest Florida's newspapers, particularly the Charlotte Sun.”  The author knows of what she speaks - she is the executive editor of a regional magazine and occasionally teaches at a local community college.  Please take a look.

Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows (remember, there's much more after the jump).

Mouth breathers hit Orlando

We all have plenty of Republican friends, but who are these people:

About 3,000 Republican activists gave Gov. Charlie Crist a reception Saturday that could be called polite. They applauded his arrival, but a few hundred wouldn't join in a standing ovation, and his remarks on climate change got no applause at all.

The cool reception was not altogether surprising. It's a highly partisan crowd in Orlando, and Crist has strongly downplayed partisanship as governor in favor of working with both Democrats and Republicans.

When Crist mentioned his predecessor, Jeb Bush, the crowd whooped and applauded. Social and moral issues are vital to many convention delegates, but Crist touched on them only perfunctorily, saying “the sanctity of marriage” is between a man and a woman and “a culture of life.”

Crist mentioned Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan in his speech, lavishing all three with praise. But neither he nor the other luncheon speakers mentioned a fellow Republican by the name of George W. Bush.

“Crist's biggest applause getter: Jeb Bush“.  Speaking of Bushco: “George Who?“

“The opening day of the Florida GOP's “Presidency IV” weekend, which tonight features a Fox News debate, underscored some truths of this unusual election cycle:”

-Nothing fires up Republican crowds this year better than uttering the words “Hillary Clinton.”

-America's biggest battleground state plays a central role in the path to the GOP nomination.

-And it's no fluke that Giuliani is the Florida front-runner. Even with moderate-to-liberal positions on hot-button social issues, the former New York mayor will be tough to topple.

Giuliani on Saturday was by far the most energetic speaker, revving up the crowd. Even skeptics left the Rosen Shingle Creek ballroom buzzing about Giuliani - that, and Fred Thompson's anemic speech of less than five minutes.

“Giuliani peps up GOP rally“. See also “GOP Fans Election Flames“.

Some lighter fare: “'You may be a Republican if …this cracks you up:'” “Candidates say funny things - on purpose“.  You may be less than suprised to know that they're  “Praying for Republican victory“.  Scott Maxwell has a little fun: “Line them up!” (if you're afraid tonight's debate among the GOP candidates for president won't hold your attention, consider turning the event into one big drinking game. The rules are simple. Just take a drink . . .)  More humor: “Florida, the butt of all jokes?“

Laff riot: “Republicans Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney have been stumbling over each other in their efforts to portray the other guy as Hillary Clinton's ideological soulmate.”

Romney's campaign issued a release Saturday by Al Cardenas, the chairman of Romney's Florida steering committee and a former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida. It blasted the idea that the GOP must “nominate a Republican who, like Hillary Clinton, opposes a constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage, a candidate who, like Senator Clinton, supports” gun control and abortion rights.

That candidate would be Rudy Giuliani.

Cardenas wrote that Republicans who argue only Giuliani can beat Clinton are asking “social conservatives to wait upstairs until the party is over — because they wouldn't want to embarrass their other guests.” . . .

Neither candidate, however, showed up Saturday in a skirt.

“Republicans in drag?“.  More: “Halloween Comes Early: Greer Scares Delegates with HRC“.

Earth to Charlie:

“Republicans care about a broad range of things, and that's healthy in my view,” Crist said. “You know, I'm a 'live and let live' kind of guy . . . but I think we're in a good place in a good time.”

“In Orlando, GOP hopefuls hammer away at Clinton“.  Poor Charlie: “Crist criticism comes from his own party“.  See also “Crist: Conservatives unite for 2008“.

And here's a coup for Freddie, he's snagged a couple of real can do guys: “House Speaker Marco Rubio of West Miami was going to endorse GOP prez candidate Fred Thompson today in Orlando, but he had to stay home for family reasons, according to two sources familiar with the endorsement. One said Rubio was to be named Florida campaign co-chair with U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam.”  

Perhaps Saint Marco is reconsidering after “Fred Thompson's anemic speech of less than five minutes“.  “Thompson's speech was so short — 4 min. and 37 seconds — some people in the crowd mistook his conclusion as just an applause line.”  “Fred's money's worth?“.  Freddie must have missed his nap.

To be fair, “Thompson spoke longer, for nearly 6 minutes, at a reception for black Republicans” … but, hey, give Freddie a break, after all it was a very small and quiet (indeed tomb like) room.

Fred will get another chance to drag his knuckles tonight: “Thompson will try to get back on track tonight“.  It should be entertaining: “Daggers out for the next GOP debate“.

We don't need no stinkin' government regulation

The “free” market at work: “34% of area gas stations fail pump tests in last 3 years“.

And the next time you hear someone gassing on about the evils of government regulation and the joy of the unrestricted free market, you may want o remind them of things like this:

Lois Harris went to a doctor in March for the blurry spot in her left eye.

She was not worried, thinking an easily treatable cataract was to blame. But Harris was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in the United States.

The Melbourne woman, who doesn't have insurance, was able to afford injections of a cancer treatment that seems to preserve eyesight. The medicine, Avastin, costs about $50 a dose.

But starting in December, thousands of eye patients nationwide may not be able to get the medicine. The drug's maker is taking steps that will limit ophthalmologists' access to Avastin. As a result, people may have to switch to an alternative, Lucentis, which runs about $2,000 a dose.

“Eye-drug switch may strap patients“.

A bad smell

Carl Hiaasen “The odor of the criminal probe has been hovering around Milberg Weiss for some time, but apparently many top Democrats don't mind the stink. Twenty-six candidates, including Rep. Tim Mahoney of Florida, have accepted campaign checks from donors connected to Milberg Weiss since the 2006 indictments.”  “The allure of stinking campaign cash“.

“This old house”

The Palm Beach Post editors: “Stick a fork in this special session of the Legislature. Please. Let it be done. Officially, the Legislature can meet until Oct. 29 to approve a tax-cut amendment for the Jan. 29 ballot. But based on last week's events in Tallahassee, the House and Senate won't be able to agree, which would be a good thing for Florida. It might even be a great thing.”  “This old House, Senate poor tax-cut carpenters“.  More: “Tax debate moves in and out of sunshine“, “Tax Ideas Multiply“, “Local concerns steer tax debate“, “State's deep geographic lines show in tax talks” and “State Rep. Carl Domino's 'portability' persistence pays off“.

It ain't a “tax” increase

“More cities charging insurance companies for emergency response“.

PBC

“The FBI official overseeing the bureau's corruption probes in Palm Beach County says his newly buttressed staff is keeping busy with 'good, corroborated allegations,' many centered on land deals.”  “Expanded FBI staff targeting corruption“.  See also “” and “”.

Anderson

“Federal investigators looking into the death of Martin Lee Anderson may take a cue from past federal civil-rights convictions to make their case.”  “Anderson review reminiscent of Rodney“.

'Ya think?

“The audacity of the U.S. sugar industry to protect its anti-free market practices knows no limits.”  “Sugar kings' latest con is hard to swallow“.

Water wars

“U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney on Saturday urged locals to lobby the president and federal lawmakers for a massive water projects bill that includes $1.4 billion for restoring the Indian River Lagoon.  President Bush has vowed to veto the Water Resources Development Act, which already has passed both houses of Congress. If the president refuses to sign the bill this week, members of the House and Senate are prepared to override the veto, said Mahoney, D-Palm Beach Gardens.”  “Mahoney tries to stir up support for water bill“.

“Family feud”

“The descendants of Ben Hill Griffin Jr. own a chunk of Florida bigger than Pinellas. But will they build on it, or grow on it?”

Nearly seven years ago, the descendants of citrus and cattle baron Ben Hill Griffin Jr. wrangled over his fortune. A courtroom battle settled how the empire would be split, but not before the public got an inside look at the pettiness and greedof one of the state's most prominent families.

The settlement established a new dynastic status quo, which masked further discord among family members controlling one of Florida's leading agricultural companies.

Now that mask is slipping again, revealing another power struggle, but with far greater implications.

“A family feud to reshape Florida“.

The poor things

“Florida government is witnessing a banner year for special elections, and that's translating into a costly tab for the people asked to cut checks.  So far this year, 36 candidates have filed for eight special elections called to fill legislative seats opened up by resignations, gubernatorial appointments and one death.”  “Banner year for special elections is costing taxpayers big money“.

Stop the presses!

“Science education to cover evolution“.

Black comedy filming in Tally

“HBO crews expect to be in Tallahassee Nov. 3-7 filming the cable network's version of the [2000] presidential deadlock.”  “Tallahassee, the Movie“.

While the GOPers whine …

“Cash is king in this year's presidential campaign, and Florida is one of the nation's biggest ATMs.”

As of Sept. 30, 2003, President Bush had raised $7.26 million from Floridians. This year, the GOP candidates' total is $8.96 million.

But it is the Democrats — led by U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton of New York and Barack Obama of Illinois — who have really convinced Floridians to open their wallets. John Kerry, Howard Dean and their rivals had raised $2.6 million at this time four years ago. This year's eight-person field has raked in a stunning $10.17 million.

“Florida Democrats open wallets for '08 candidates “.

Florida's booming economy

“Housing slump strikes downtowns“.

Sill waitin' for that “drop like a rock” stuff

“Not everyone will get relief promised by Legislature”.  “Not everyone in Broward will get property tax relief“.

Inexcusable

“The Florida panther stands as close to disappearing as any living thing on the planet. About 80 to 100 panthers remain, three times the number that existed barely a decade ago. But the controversial breeding program that saved the panther from extinction has ushered in a new era of greater problems and tougher solutions.”  “On the edge: Florida panthers stand close to disappearing“.

Whatever

“Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign says her husband's appearance at the James L. Knight Center does not violate her pledge to boycott Florida.”  “Clinton camp: Fundraiser no breach of boycott“.

Please go to the following post and help out if you can - “Progressive Democrats of America Hosting Orlando Convention Weekend“.

The Florida Progressive Coalition's “Florida Netroots Awards — Nominations Now Open“.  There are so many excellent blogs that are not getting the recognition and leadership they deserve.  Please take the time to let us know - via nominations - about some of the hidden gems out there; a good place to start would be BlogNetNews/Florida and Lefty Blogs - Florida.

On a separate note, we are pleased (and pleasantly surprised) to advise that the October 2007 edition of Campaigns & Elections magazine, after talking “to state campaign staffers, Hill staffers and party insiders … about their must-reads, the links they check compulsively every day”, selected FLA Politics as one of ten local blogs in the country “every political insider should be reading right now.”

Please check out “Old World Wolf“, a “blog that focuses on Southwest Florida's newspapers, particularly the Charlotte Sun.”  The author knows of what she speaks - she is the executive editor of a regional magazine and occasionally teaches at a local community college.  Please take a look.

Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows (remember, there's much more after the jump).

Mouth breathers hit Orlando

We all have plenty of Republican friends, but who are these people:

About 3,000 Republican activists gave Gov. Charlie Crist a reception Saturday that could be called polite. They applauded his arrival, but a few hundred wouldn't join in a standing ovation, and his remarks on climate change got no applause at all.

The cool reception was not altogether surprising. It's a highly partisan crowd in Orlando, and Crist has strongly downplayed partisanship as governor in favor of working with both Democrats and Republicans.

When Crist mentioned his predecessor, Jeb Bush, the crowd whooped and applauded. Social and moral issues are vital to many convention delegates, but Crist touched on them only perfunctorily, saying “the sanctity of marriage” is between a man and a woman and “a culture of life.”

Crist mentioned Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan in his speech, lavishing all three with praise. But neither he nor the other luncheon speakers mentioned a fellow Republican by the name of George W. Bush.

“Crist's biggest applause getter: Jeb Bush“.  Speaking of Bushco: “George Who?“

“The opening day of the Florida GOP's “Presidency IV” weekend, which tonight features a Fox News debate, underscored some truths of this unusual election cycle:”

-Nothing fires up Republican crowds this year better than uttering the words “Hillary Clinton.”

-America's biggest battleground state plays a central role in the path to the GOP nomination.

-And it's no fluke that Giuliani is the Florida front-runner. Even with moderate-to-liberal positions on hot-button social issues, the former New York mayor will be tough to topple.

Giuliani on Saturday was by far the most energetic speaker, revving up the crowd. Even skeptics left the Rosen Shingle Creek ballroom buzzing about Giuliani - that, and Fred Thompson's anemic speech of less than five minutes.

“Giuliani peps up GOP rally“. See also “GOP Fans Election Flames“.

Some lighter fare: “'You may be a Republican if …this cracks you up:'” “Candidates say funny things - on purpose“.  More “Praying for Republican victory“.  Scott Maxwell has a little fun: “Line them up!” (if you're afraid tonight's debate among the GOP candidates for president won't hold your attention, consider turning the event into one big drinking game. The rules are simple. Just take a drink . . .)  More humor: “Florida, the butt of all jokes?“

Laff riot: “Republicans Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney have been stumbling over each other in their efforts to portray the other guy as Hillary Clinton's ideological soulmate.”

Romney's campaign issued a release Saturday by Al Cardenas, the chairman of Romney's Florida steering committee and a former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida. It blasted the idea that the GOP must “nominate a Republican who, like Hillary Clinton, opposes a constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage, a candidate who, like Senator Clinton, supports” gun control and abortion rights.

That candidate would be Rudy Giuliani.

Cardenas wrote that Republicans who argue only Giuliani can beat Clinton are asking “social conservatives to wait upstairs until the party is over — because they wouldn't want to embarrass their other guests.” . . .

Neither candidate, however, showed up Saturday in a skirt.

“Republicans in drag?“.  More: “Halloween Comes Early: Greer Scares Delegates with HRC“.

Earth to Charlie:

“Republicans care about a broad range of things, and that's healthy in my view,” Crist said. “You know, I'm a 'live and let live' kind of guy . . . but I think we're in a good place in a good time.”

“In Orlando, GOP hopefuls hammer away at Clinton“.  Poor Charlie: “Crist criticism comes from his own party“.  See also “Crist: Conservatives unite for 2008“.

And here's a coup for Freddie, he's snagged a couple of real can do guys: “House Speaker Marco Rubio of West Miami was going to endorse GOP prez candidate Fred Thompson today in Orlando, but he had to stay home for family reasons, according to two sources familiar with the endorsement. One said Rubio was to be named Florida campaign co-chair with U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam.”  

Perhaps Saint Marco is reconsidering after “Fred Thompson's anemic speech of less than five minutes“.  “Thompson's speech was so short — 4 min. and 37 seconds — some people in the crowd mistook his conclusion as just an applause line.”  “Fred's money's worth?“.  Freddie must have missed his nap.

To be fair, “Thompson spoke longer, for nearly 6 minutes, at a reception for black Republicans” … but, hey, give Freddie a break, after all it was a very small and quiet (indeed tomb like) room.

Fred will get another chance to drag his knuckles tonight: “Thompson will try to get back on track tonight“.  It should be entertaining: “Daggers out for the next GOP debate“.

We don't need no stinkin' government regulation

The “free” market at work: “34% of area gas stations fail pump tests in last 3 years“.

And the next time you hear someone gassing on about the evils of government regulation and the joy of the unrestricted free market, you may want o remind them of things like this:

Lois Harris went to a doctor in March for the blurry spot in her left eye.

She was not worried, thinking an easily treatable cataract was to blame. But Harris was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in the United States.

The Melbourne woman, who doesn't have insurance, was able to afford injections of a cancer treatment that seems to preserve eyesight. The medicine, Avastin, costs about $50 a dose.

But starting in December, thousands of eye patients nationwide may not be able to get the medicine. The drug's maker is taking steps that will limit ophthalmologists' access to Avastin. As a result, people may have to switch to an alternative, Lucentis, which runs about $2,000 a dose.

“Eye-drug switch may strap patients“.

A bad smell

Carl Hiaasen “The odor of the criminal probe has been hovering around Milberg Weiss for some time, but apparently many top Democrats don't mind the stink. Twenty-six candidates, including Rep. Tim Mahoney of Florida, have accepted campaign checks from donors connected to Milberg Weiss since the 2006 indictments.”  “The allure of stinking campaign cash“.

“This old house”

The Palm Beach Post editors: “Stick a fork in this special session of the Legislature. Please. Let it be done. Officially, the Legislature can meet until Oct. 29 to approve a tax-cut amendment for the Jan. 29 ballot. But based on last week's events in Tallahassee, the House and Senate won't be able to agree, which would be a good thing for Florida. It might even be a great thing.”  “This old House, Senate poor tax-cut carpenters“.  More: “Tax debate moves in and out of sunshine“, “Tax Ideas Multiply“, “Local concerns steer tax debate“, “State's deep geographic lines show in tax talks” and “State Rep. Carl Domino's 'portability' persistence pays off“.

It ain't a “tax” increase

“More cities charging insurance companies for emergency response“.

PBC

“The FBI official overseeing the bureau's corruption probes in Palm Beach County says his newly buttressed staff is keeping busy with 'good, corroborated allegations,' many centered on land deals.”  “Expanded FBI staff targeting corruption“.  See also “” and “”.

Anderson

“Federal investigators looking into the death of Martin Lee Anderson may take a cue from past federal civil-rights convictions to make their case.”  “Anderson review reminiscent of Rodney“.

'Ya think?

“The audacity of the U.S. sugar industry to protect its anti-free market practices knows no limits.”  “Sugar kings' latest con is hard to swallow“.

Water wars

“U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney on Saturday urged locals to lobby the president and federal lawmakers for a massive water projects bill that includes $1.4 billion for restoring the Indian River Lagoon.  President Bush has vowed to veto the Water Resources Development Act, which already has passed both houses of Congress. If the president refuses to sign the bill this week, members of the House and Senate are prepared to override the veto, said Mahoney, D-Palm Beach Gardens.”  “Mahoney tries to stir up support for water bill“.

“Family feud”

“The descendants of Ben Hill Griffin Jr. own a chunk of Florida bigger than Pinellas. But will they build on it, or grow on it?”

Nearly seven years ago, the descendants of citrus and cattle baron Ben Hill Griffin Jr. wrangled over his fortune. A courtroom battle settled how the empire would be split, but not before the public got an inside look at the pettiness and greedof one of the state's most prominent families.

The settlement established a new dynastic status quo, which masked further discord among family members controlling one of Florida's leading agricultural companies.

Now that mask is slipping again, revealing another power struggle, but with far greater implications.

“A family feud to reshape Florida“.

The poor things

“Florida government is witnessing a banner year for special elections, and that's translating into a costly tab for the people asked to cut checks.  So far this year, 36 candidates have filed for eight special elections called to fill legislative seats opened up by resignations, gubernatorial appointments and one death.”  “Banner year for special elections is costing taxpayers big money“.

Stop the presses!

“Science education to cover evolution“.

Black comedy filming in Tally

“HBO crews expect to be in Tallahassee Nov. 3-7 filming the cable network's version of the [2000] presidential deadlock.”  “Tallahassee, the Movie“.

While the GOPers whine …

“Cash is king in this year's presidential campaign, and Florida is one of the nation's biggest ATMs.”

As of Sept. 30, 2003, President Bush had raised $7.26 million from Floridians. This year, the GOP candidates' total is $8.96 million.

But it is the Democrats — led by U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton of New York and Barack Obama of Illinois — who have really convinced Floridians to open their wallets. John Kerry, Howard Dean and their rivals had raised $2.6 million at this time four years ago. This year's eight-person field has raked in a stunning $10.17 million.

“Florida Democrats open wallets for '08 candidates “.

Florida's booming economy

“Housing slump strikes downtowns“.

Sill waitin' for that “drop like a rock” stuff

“Not everyone will get relief promised by Legislature”.  “Not everyone in Broward will get property tax relief“.

Inexcusable

“The Florida panther stands as close to disappearing as any living thing on the planet. About 80 to 100 panthers remain, three times the number that existed barely a decade ago. But the controversial breeding program that saved the panther from extinction has ushered in a new era of greater problems and tougher solutions.”  “On the edge: Florida panthers stand close to disappearing“.Whatever

“Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign says her husband's appearance at the James L. Knight Center does not violate her pledge to boycott Florida.”  “Clinton camp: Fundraiser no breach of boycott“.

The Florida Progressive Coalition's “Florida Netroots Awards — Nominations Now Open“; to the extent you are interested, our nominations are here.

Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows (remember there is much more after the jump).

RPOF “leaders” at work

Florida House leaders released a revised property tax cut package Friday, replacing an earlier version termed unacceptable by the Senate leadership.

The [most recent] House plan, the Senate complained, contained provisions outside the framework of a deal worked out by Gov. Charlie Crist and Legislative leaders.

On Friday, the House declared its “refined” plan as fairer than the Senate's, providing larger breaks to newer homeowners while addressing long-standing complaints from businesses and owners of second homes. And the House ditched one provision the Senate didn't like: a sales tax increase to offset the impact of the tax cuts on education.

But it retains another: a 5 percent assessment cap on nonhomestead property. (The House moved away from a 3 percent cap due to its cost.)

Top Senate negotiators weren't around or weren't commenting on the latest House plan, released at 4:30 p.m. Friday and without specific legislation to examine. But other senators had this to say about the new proposal:

Unacceptable.

“House revises tax proposal“.  See also “Tax compromise in the works“, “$11B tax-cut plan for naught?“, “Tax cut talks stall with deal not yet sealed“, “House Republicans revise property tax plan” and “House members offer new property tax plan“.

The RPOF just can't help itself: “A new House proposal for property-tax relief contains provisions that would benefit businesses — but at homeowners' expense.”  “New tax plan, old pitfalls“.  Here's a shocker: “TaxWatch on board with House plan“.

Why is Saint Marco seeing the benefits of compromise?  S. V. Date writes that Rubio's realization of

political mortality, many believe, is driving the dramatic about-face Rubio, R-West Miami, exhibited over the past two weeks - from publicly supporting a relatively simple proposal by Gov. Charlie Crist costing about $7 billion over four years to abandoning a signed deal and insisting on a massive proposal totaling upwards of $30 billion in cuts, before it was modified late Friday to one that would reduce taxes by about $11 billion.

In diverging from Crist's script, he has angered Senate leaders who months ago grew weary of what they consider a recklessness on major policy questions - to the point where Senate Majority Leader Daniel Webster, R-Winter Garden, explaining that his colleagues would return no earlier than Tuesday, added in a moment of pique: “But there's no guarantee we're coming back at all.

“Prospect of losing clout may explain Rubio's tax switch“.

Steve Bousquet: The collapse of this week's special session on property taxes provides insights about why things happen in Tallahassee.”  “Inside the sausage factory“.

And then there's this: “Will Florida's Legislature ever learn?  After failing, again, to come up with a plan to cut property taxes, House leaders have, again, stolen away to their back rooms to work out a deal in secret.  Outrageous.”  “Strike 3 on legislative secrecy“.

The Tallahassee Democrat editors: “Florida's Byzantine tax system didn't occur overnight and it can't be fixed that quickly either.”  “Taxing work“.

The Sun-Sentinel editorial board gives us this today: “We have been skeptical that the highly political, if not partisan, process in Tallahassee could yield a wide-ranging measure overhaul to correct inequities in the property tax system without unnecessarily gutting local services. We've seen nothing in the past six months to prove us wrong.  Still, there is a justifiable sense of urgency for action, given the meltdown in the housing market and its negative impact on the state economy. And the flurry of ideas and proposals this past week contain lots of worthy possibilities.”  “Lawmakers have chance to sort out tax issues“.

Green initiatives “halted by outcries from utility companies”

“The Florida Energy Commission on Friday delayed key votes on greenhouse gas reduction, renewable energy and car pollution standards - halted by outcries from utility companies and disagreement among its own members.”  “Board postpones vote on energy solutions“.

Whatever

While Mel has lived off of being “appointed” to things, he doesn't like appointments to jobs that, you know, require him to do even a little work: “Just 10 months into the job and before a Republican presidential nominee has emerged, Sen. Mel Martinez, national party chairman, said he's calling it quits and will focus on his job as a Florida senator.  The abrupt announcement came after reports suggested Martinez would leave the post at the Republican National Committee as soon as next spring, when a GOP nominee was chosen.”  “Martinez resigns as Republican Party chief“.  See also “Martinez steps down as Republican Party general chairman“, “Martinez cuts short tenure as RNC chair” and “Martinez resigns GOP post“.

What is Florida coming to …

“Evolution's role in class set to grow“.

Water war

The St. Pete Times editors: “It would be easier for Floridians to sympathize with Atlanta over its water shortage if Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue would stop blaming us for it. Perdue is threatening to sue the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to stop it from releasing water from Lake Lanier near Atlanta downstream to Florida's Apalachicola River and productive estuary. Perdue and other Georgia officials have tried to turn this into a fight between human beings in Atlanta and shellfish in Florida. … Here's the truth, Gov. Perdue: A record drought, unrestrained population growth and poor water-conservation habits are to blame for northern Georgia's water shortage.”  “Georgia, don't pin your water shortage on us“.

Masilotti

“While federal agents pursued him, Tony Masilotti last year cooked up another scheme to trade county land for a kickback, according to a new court filing by corruption prosecutors.”  “Kickback case adds allegations about Masilotti“.

Florida's booming economy

“Depressed sales of construction materials, home improvements and furnishings triggered by Florida's burst housing bubble have started spreading to a drop in other types of consumer spending.  In fact, unless the state's economy perks up in the next few months, Florida will report its first decrease in annual sales tax collections since the 1992 recession.”  “Spending plunge broadens statewide“.

Class size

The Palm Beach Post editors suggest that

the Republican-controlled Legislature could propose a simple constitutional change that actually would help schools. Superintendents in St. Lucie, Martin and Palm Beach counties want more flexibility to comply with the spirit of the class-size amendment voters approved in 2002. It stipulates that, by 2010, every public school classroom can have no more than 18 students in grades K-3, 22 in grades 4-8 and 25 in high schools.

Then-Gov. Bush and the Legislature got even with voters by refusing to adequately pay for the required smaller classes. Partly for that reason, districts warn that they will have trouble providing the necessary classrooms and teachers to comply with class-size limits.

Voters should not gut the amendment. But they should be willing to change the requirement that every individual class be the mandated size.

“Tweak class-size rules“.

“Straw-man strategy”

“More than 93,000 registered voters in Lake County had no say in last year's fiercely contested race for District 2 commissioner because of a write-in candidate who never stumped for the job.”

An elections-law loophole allows this so-called straw-man strategy. And Republicans and Democrats alike have exploited it repeatedly in their respective strongholds, keeping thousands of Florida voters from casting ballots in state and local races.

A local judge has been asked to end the practice and close the loophole.

“Lawsuit: Write-in 'candidates' shut out voters“.

“Political star power”?

“For political star power, there's no comparison.  Rudy Giuliani, Fred Thompson, Mitt Romney, John McCain and other Republican presidential candidates will be in Orlando this weekend for the state GOP convention. They'll spend two days schmoozing Florida activists before participating in a nationally televised debate Sunday night.  Florida Democrats hold their convention in Orlando a week later. Instead of seeing Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, John Edwards and other leading White House contenders, party faithful will have to settle for appearances by long-shot candidates Dennis Kucinich and Mike Gravel.”  “GOP gets early edge with more candidates in state“.

Mahoney

“U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney visited doctors and children Friday to say that he and other Democrats will introduce another children's health care bill and work even harder to override President Bush's probable veto.”  “Mahoney visits hospital, reads with kids“.

The Florida Progressive Coalition's “Florida Netroots Awards — Nominations Now Open“; to the extent you are interested, our nominations are here.

Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows (remember there is much more after the jump).

RPOF “leaders” at work

Florida House leaders released a revised property tax cut package Friday, replacing an earlier version termed unacceptable by the Senate leadership.

The [most recent] House plan, the Senate complained, contained provisions outside the framework of a deal worked out by Gov. Charlie Crist and Legislative leaders.

On Friday, the House declared its “refined” plan as fairer than the Senate's, providing larger breaks to newer homeowners while addressing long-standing complaints from businesses and owners of second homes. And the House ditched one provision the Senate didn't like: a sales tax increase to offset the impact of the tax cuts on education.

But it retains another: a 5 percent assessment cap on nonhomestead property. (The House moved away from a 3 percent cap due to its cost.)

Top Senate negotiators weren't around or weren't commenting on the latest House plan, released at 4:30 p.m. Friday and without specific legislation to examine. But other senators had this to say about the new proposal:

Unacceptable.

“House revises tax proposal“.  See also “Tax compromise in the works“, “$11B tax-cut plan for naught?“, “Tax cut talks stall with deal not yet sealed“, “House Republicans revise property tax plan” and “House members offer new property tax plan“.

The RPOF just can't help itself: “A new House proposal for property-tax relief contains provisions that would benefit businesses — but at homeowners' expense.”  “New tax plan, old pitfalls“.  Here's a shocker: “TaxWatch on board with House plan“.

Why is Saint Marco seeing the benefits of compromise?  S. V. Date writes that Rubio's realization of

political mortality, many believe, is driving the dramatic about-face Rubio, R-West Miami, exhibited over the past two weeks - from publicly supporting a relatively simple proposal by Gov. Charlie Crist costing about $7 billion over four years to abandoning a signed deal and insisting on a massive proposal totaling upwards of $30 billion in cuts, before it was modified late Friday to one that would reduce taxes by about $11 billion.

In diverging from Crist's script, he has angered Senate leaders who months ago grew weary of what they consider a recklessness on major policy questions - to the point where Senate Majority Leader Daniel Webster, R-Winter Garden, explaining that his colleagues would return no earlier than Tuesday, added in a moment of pique: “But there's no guarantee we're coming back at all.

“Prospect of losing clout may explain Rubio's tax switch“.

Steve Bousquet: The collapse of this week's special session on property taxes provides insights about why things happen in Tallahassee.”  “Inside the sausage factory“.

And then there's this: “Will Florida's Legislature ever learn?  After failing, again, to come up with a plan to cut property taxes, House leaders have, again, stolen away to their back rooms to work out a deal in secret.  Outrageous.”  “Strike 3 on legislative secrecy“.

The Tallahassee Democrat editors: “Florida's Byzantine tax system didn't occur overnight and it can't be fixed that quickly either.”  “Taxing work“.

The Sun-Sentinel editorial board gives us this today: “We have been skeptical that the highly political, if not partisan, process in Tallahassee could yield a wide-ranging measure overhaul to correct inequities in the property tax system without unnecessarily gutting local services. We've seen nothing in the past six months to prove us wrong.  Still, there is a justifiable sense of urgency for action, given the meltdown in the housing market and its negative impact on the state economy. And the flurry of ideas and proposals this past week contain lots of worthy possibilities.”  “Lawmakers have chance to sort out tax issues“.

Green initiatives “halted by outcries from utility companies”

“The Florida Energy Commission on Friday delayed key votes on greenhouse gas reduction, renewable energy and car pollution standards - halted by outcries from utility companies and disagreement among its own members.”  “Board postpones vote on energy solutions“.

Whatever

While Mel has lived off of being “appointed” to things, he doesn't like appointments to jobs that, you know, require him to do even a little work: “Just 10 months into the job and before a Republican presidential nominee has emerged, Sen. Mel Martinez, national party chairman, said he's calling it quits and will focus on his job as a Florida senator.  The abrupt announcement came after reports suggested Martinez would leave the post at the Republican National Committee as soon as next spring, when a GOP nominee was chosen.”  “Martinez resigns as Republican Party chief“.  See also “Martinez steps down as Republican Party general chairman“, “Martinez cuts short tenure as RNC chair” and “Martinez resigns GOP post“.

What is Florida coming to …

“Evolution's role in class set to grow“.

Water war

The St. Pete Times editors: “It would be easier for Floridians to sympathize with Atlanta over its water shortage if Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue would stop blaming us for it. Perdue is threatening to sue the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to stop it from releasing water from Lake Lanier near Atlanta downstream to Florida's Apalachicola River and productive estuary. Perdue and other Georgia officials have tried to turn this into a fight between human beings in Atlanta and shellfish in Florida. … Here's the truth, Gov. Perdue: A record drought, unrestrained population growth and poor water-conservation habits are to blame for northern Georgia's water shortage.”  “Georgia, don't pin your water shortage on us“.

Masilotti

“While federal agents pursued him, Tony Masilotti last year cooked up another scheme to trade county land for a kickback, according to a new court filing by corruption prosecutors.”  “Kickback case adds allegations about Masilotti“.

Florida's booming economy

“Depressed sales of construction materials, home improvements and furnishings triggered by Florida's burst housing bubble have started spreading to a drop in other types of consumer spending.  In fact, unless the state's economy perks up in the next few months, Florida will report its first decrease in annual sales tax collections since the 1992 recession.”  “Spending plunge broadens statewide“.

Class size

The Palm Beach Post editors suggest that

the Republican-controlled Legislature could propose a simple constitutional change that actually would help schools. Superintendents in St. Lucie, Martin and Palm Beach counties want more flexibility to comply with the spirit of the class-size amendment voters approved in 2002. It stipulates that, by 2010, every public school classroom can have no more than 18 students in grades K-3, 22 in grades 4-8 and 25 in high schools.

Then-Gov. Bush and the Legislature got even with voters by refusing to adequately pay for the required smaller classes. Partly for that reason, districts warn that they will have trouble providing the necessary classrooms and teachers to comply with class-size limits.

Voters should not gut the amendment. But they should be willing to change the requirement that every individual class be the mandated size.

“Tweak class-size rules“.

“Straw-man strategy”

“More than 93,000 registered voters in Lake County had no say in last year's fiercely contested race for District 2 commissioner because of a write-in candidate who never stumped for the job.”

An elections-law loophole allows this so-called straw-man strategy. And Republicans and Democrats alike have exploited it repeatedly in their respective strongholds, keeping thousands of Florida voters from casting ballots in state and local races.

A local judge has been asked to end the practice and close the loophole.

“Lawsuit: Write-in 'candidates' shut out voters“.

“Political star power”?

“For political star power, there's no comparison.  Rudy Giuliani, Fred Thompson, Mitt Romney, John McCain and other Republican presidential candidates will be in Orlando this weekend for the state GOP convention. They'll spend two days schmoozing Florida activists before participating in a nationally televised debate Sunday night.  Florida Democrats hold their convention in Orlando a week later. Instead of seeing Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, John Edwards and other leading White House contenders, party faithful will have to settle for appearances by long-shot candidates Dennis Kucinich and Mike Gravel.”  “GOP gets early edge with more candidates in state“.

Mahoney

“U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney visited doctors and children Friday to say that he and other Democrats will introduce another children's health care bill and work even harder to override President Bush's probable veto.”  “Mahoney visits hospital, reads with kids“.

The Florida Progressive Coalition's “9 Stories to Read“.  Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows.

Back “to the back rooms”

“With initial agreement on an $11 billion property tax cutting plan in tatters, House leaders threw in the towel Thursday and decided to start all over.  With that, negotiations moved from the House and Senate floor to the back rooms, as most lawmakers prepared to go home for the weekend.”  “Lawmakers go back to the drawing board“.  See also “No Property Tax Deal On Table“, “Property tax overhaul in peril; deal fizzles with time running out“, “Time, tax deal fade“, “Lawmakers' tax plans don't mesh“, “House, Senate, take break on slow path to property tax cut“, “Property tax talks, near end, hit snag” and “Florida lawmakers frustrated — no tax deal“.

The Tampa Trib editors argue that “Lawmakers Should Put An End To Their Property Tax Farce“: ” it's clear that political expediency, not the long-term welfare of the state, much less taxpayers, is their overriding concern.  Most lawmakers simply want to be able to brag that they cut property taxes. Little thought is being given to the costs, consequences or inequities of the many proposals being batted about.”

And then there's this: “Largely unnoticed so far in the din of back-and-forth, tax-cut politics in the Capitol is one piece of potential dynamite: the destruction, even the actual reversal, of the popular Save Our Homes protection for homeowners.”  “At issue: The death of Save Our Homes“.

“Divisive partisan politics”

The Orlando Sentinel editors bemoan the SCHIP vote:  “Central Florida Republicans — Tom Feeney and Ric Keller chief among them — ought to be among those leaders who will put aside rhetoric and work to improve the necessary State Children's Health Insurance Program.”

So far, these members of Congress have chosen divisive partisan politics over the program … that now provides health-care coverage for about 253,000 Florida children — nearly 50,000 of them here in Central Florida. The latest estimates show that 455,000 children in this state need health insurance.

And then there's Bushco's waterboy:

18 Republican senators, including conservatives such as Utah's Orrin Hatch and Iowa's Chuck Grassley, voted for this and have fought for it. It's too bad Florida's Sen. Mel Martinez was not among them.

“Find middle ground“.  The News-Journal editors:

Thirteen votes short. Thirteen votes away from ensuring health coverage for 10 million low-income children across the United States. Thirteen representatives who willfully bought into the misleading, distortion-filled campaign by the White House, and at least two local representatives who almost certainly know better.

U.S. Reps. John Mica and Tom Feeney have no excuse for their vote Thursday.

Read why here: “Mica, Feeney fail children in SCHIP veto override fight“.

Consider this dopey rhetoric: “Republicans complained the bill cost too much and was a step toward 'socialized medicine' because it would enroll middle-income children.”  “Martinez, Feeney offer cheaper SCHIP proposal“.

How convenient …

“The state Republican convention this weekend not only presents an opportunity for delegates to weigh in with their favorite candidates.”  “Break time comes at just the right time“.

March on Tallahassee

“Members of the NAACP from around Florida will march from the Capitol to the U.S. Attorney's office Tuesday in an attempt to bring pressure for federal charges against those cleared in the boot-camp trial in Panama City last week.”  “NAACP plans Tuesday march in Tallahassee“.

That lonely feeling

“A Florida boycott by most Democratic presidential candidates will lower the celebrity wattage of the primary campaign in Broward, the state's Democratic stronghold.”  “Boycott has Broward Democrats feeling neglected“.

Yipes!

“There are plenty of reasons to be apprehensive about the 2008 election in Palm Beach County.”  “Election storm warning“.

The profit motive

“Federal investigators raided three for-profit college campuses in South Florida this week in a U.S. Education Department probe. … The office generally investigates allegations of waste, fraud and abuse of federal education dollars.”  “3 Florida college campuses raided in federal investigation“.

Not ready for prime time

Seeking the Reagan vote, Freddie does the “misspoke” thing: “Thompson makes it clear: No drilling in the Everglades“.

Osceola

“Osceola County commissioners should stop invoking Jesus in prayers at public meetings after a church-state watchdog group complained about the practice, their attorney has advised them.  At least one commissioner has refused. If called to lead the invocation, Commissioner Paul Owen said he would continue his tradition of praying 'in Christ's name.'”  “Osceola leaders are told: Keep Jesus out of prayers“.

“Special-interest battle”

“Florida may have to shell out $600,000 to print new driver-safety handbooks, thanks to a special-interest battle in the Capitol.”

Ponta Vedra Beach-based National Safety Commission has been printing the manuals for free in return for exclusive advertising rights in the 1 million handbooks that go out to motorists statewide.

The company signed the contract with the state two years ago under a privatization push by former Gov. Jeb Bush. But rival driving schools, championed by state Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, have managed to scuttle the deal.

Last spring, Fasano inserted what's called “proviso” language in the budget ordering the state Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to print the handbook without advertising.

Gov. Charlie Crist vetoed the language but left in place about $600,000 Fasano had included in the budget to pay for printing new handbooks.

This summer, Florida Providers of Traffic Safety Inc., which employed Fasano's former aide as a lobbyist and had ties to one of his business partners, filed a lawsuit that argued Crist couldn't veto the “proviso” language without also removing the money.

Leon County Judge John Cooper agreed in a hearing Wednesday, and ordered the veto expunged.

“The governor could have vetoed both or neither, but not the proviso without the appropriation,” said the lawyer for the group, Kelly Overstreet Johnson.

The ruling is the latest — but not likely the last — chapter in the fight between Fasano and National Safety Commission President Ken Underwood, who has filed his own lawsuit challenging the legality of the proviso language.

“Driving schools, politicians keep battle going over safety books“.

“To improve performance numbers”?

“The brutal death of a toddler this week, allegedly at the hands of her caregiver, has reignited child-welfare administrators' fears that Miami investigators and supervisors routinely rushed suspected abuse cases to closure to improve performance numbers.”  “Was DCF too quick to close cases?“

A fine idea at the time

“Samuel Lopez, the only Broward Democrat running for a state House seat in a Republican-dominated district, has dropped out of the race.”  “Broward Democrat withdraws from House race“.

Is this news?

“Jeb Bush Jr. supporting Giuliani in GOP presidential contest“.

Election season is upon us

“If Republicans don't think their presidential candidates are on the conservative extreme of issues important to them, Democrats are reminding them there is another choice: Katherine Harris.”

The Florida Democratic Party is launching a parody Web site that will feature videos of Republican presidential candidates' statements on issues like immigration, foreign policy, taxes and others. The idea is if they want someone on the far right on any of those topics, Harris is their candidate.

“It's comparing her to the candidates on the Republican platform - who hates immigrants more, who will fight to reduce the number of children with health insurance, et cetera,” said Mark Bubriski, a spokesman for the state party. …

On http://www.draftkatherineharris.com , the party has posted a video that opens with the question “Worried about the Republican field?” It then shows Republican candidates criticizing each other or bumbling their words. The video rolls out the message: “Real Americans need a candidate … a candidate with courage … the courage to be … a real Republican.”

The screen then shows an extreme close-up of Harris' lips and the image gradually pulls back to show her whole face.

It's a tease for material that will be posted throughout the weekend to coincide with the Republican Party of Florida's “Presidency IV” weekend, during which candidates will address activists and participate in a debate.

“Democrats want Katherine Harris drafted for president“.

Your tax dollars at work

“Here's how it works: An Internet phone device dials from 20,000 to as many as 40,000 phone numbers in the lawmaker's district, at about 100 numbers per second.”

The numbers are culled from voter-registration lists and must not be skewed by political party because congressional funds pay the $2,500 to $3,500 tab.

The voter hears a message from the lawmaker asking whether he or she wants to join a town-hall meeting immediately. Pressing “pound” puts the voter in electronic line to ask a question. The lawmaker sees a list of waiting questioners and runs through as many as he has time for. Anyone who doesn't get to ask a question can leave a message and get a response.

Lawmakers hold the meetings on weeknights when they're in Washington, and they usually last an hour or two. The monthly sessions are in addition to i

“Lawmakers go dialing for voters via Internet“.

Apathy.com

“He gives kids reasons to care about politics“.

Plus … you don't have to interact with other humans

“Once controversial, the school is now seen as a fixture on the educational landscape, and good preparation for the increasing number of online options in college.”  “Soaring enrollment marks Florida Virtual School's first decade“.

Reverse privatization

“Florida's prison chief wants to abolish the St. Petersburg nonprofit company that has provided work and job training for inmates for 26 years and survived more than its share of controversy.”

Corrections Secretary James McDonough says the company, known as PRIDE, provides too few jobs for inmates, pays its top executives too much and has outlived its usefulness.

“I believe I can run it better,” McDonough said. “I'm trying to maximize the number of inmates that we get to work. It's a key part of re-entry, and it reduces idleness in prisons.”

And isn't this nice:

Chief executive Jack Edgemon was paid $200,000 last year and a $50,000 bonus.

PRIDE endured a scandal in recent years by losing $19-million in loans to a series of spinoff companies without fully informing the Legislature.

“McDonough's determination to abolish PRIDE could become highly political.”

PRIDE has friends in the Legislature and will mobilize a fierce lobbying effort to stay alive. Among its arguments will be that in tight budget times, it makes no sense to expand the size of government. …

But the final decision will rest with the Republican-controlled Legislature in the 2008 regular session. Many lawmakers may be skeptical that state government can run a program better than a public-private entity.

A bigger problem may be that as inmate work programs expand, they will provide stiffer competition with free enterprise. That's a recipe for controversy in a Legislature dominated by pro-business Republicans, where the collective voices of business lobby groups often speak loudly [('ya think?)].

McDonough insists that the state can run inmate work programs better and at no increase in cost to Florida taxpayers. How? By using [the 'nonprofit'] PRIDE's profit margin, nearly $7-million last year.

The essence of PRIDE's fight for survival is that the state can't possibly do it for less.

“Battle brews over Florida's idle inmates“.

The Florida Progressive Coalition's “9 Stories to Read“.  Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows.

Back “to the back rooms”

“With initial agreement on an $11 billion property tax cutting plan in tatters, House leaders threw in the towel Thursday and decided to start all over.  With that, negotiations moved from the House and Senate floor to the back rooms, as most lawmakers prepared to go home for the weekend.”  “Lawmakers go back to the drawing board“.  See also “No Property Tax Deal On Table“, “Property tax overhaul in peril; deal fizzles with time running out“, “Time, tax deal fade“, “Lawmakers' tax plans don't mesh“, “House, Senate, take break on slow path to property tax cut“, “Property tax talks, near end, hit snag” and “Florida lawmakers frustrated — no tax deal“.

The Tampa Trib editors argue that “Lawmakers Should Put An End To Their Property Tax Farce“: ” it's clear that political expediency, not the long-term welfare of the state, much less taxpayers, is their overriding concern.  Most lawmakers simply want to be able to brag that they cut property taxes. Little thought is being given to the costs, consequences or inequities of the many proposals being batted about.”

And then there's this: “Largely unnoticed so far in the din of back-and-forth, tax-cut politics in the Capitol is one piece of potential dynamite: the destruction, even the actual reversal, of the popular Save Our Homes protection for homeowners.”  “At issue: The death of Save Our Homes“.

“Divisive partisan politics”

The Orlando Sentinel editors bemoan the SCHIP vote:  “Central Florida Republicans — Tom Feeney and Ric Keller chief among them — ought to be among those leaders who will put aside rhetoric and work to improve the necessary State Children's Health Insurance Program.”

So far, these members of Congress have chosen divisive partisan politics over the program … that now provides health-care coverage for about 253,000 Florida children — nearly 50,000 of them here in Central Florida. The latest estimates show that 455,000 children in this state need health insurance.

And then there's Bushco's waterboy:

18 Republican senators, including conservatives such as Utah's Orrin Hatch and Iowa's Chuck Grassley, voted for this and have fought for it. It's too bad Florida's Sen. Mel Martinez was not among them.

“Find middle ground“.  The News-Journal editors:

Thirteen votes short. Thirteen votes away from ensuring health coverage for 10 million low-income children across the United States. Thirteen representatives who willfully bought into the misleading, distortion-filled campaign by the White House, and at least two local representatives who almost certainly know better.

U.S. Reps. John Mica and Tom Feeney have no excuse for their vote Thursday.

Read why here: “Mica, Feeney fail children in SCHIP veto override fight“.

Consider this dopey rhetoric: “Republicans complained the bill cost too much and was a step toward 'socialized medicine' because it would enroll middle-income children.”  “Martinez, Feeney offer cheaper SCHIP proposal“.

How convenient …

“The state Republican convention this weekend not only presents an opportunity for delegates to weigh in with their favorite candidates.”  “Break time comes at just the right time“.

March on Tallahassee

“Members of the NAACP from around Florida will march from the Capitol to the U.S. Attorney's office Tuesday in an attempt to bring pressure for federal charges against those cleared in the boot-camp trial in Panama City last week.”  “NAACP plans Tuesday march in Tallahassee“.

That lonely feeling

“A Florida boycott by most Democratic presidential candidates will lower the celebrity wattage of the primary campaign in Broward, the state's Democratic stronghold.”  “Boycott has Broward Democrats feeling neglected“.

Yipes!

“There are plenty of reasons to be apprehensive about the 2008 election in Palm Beach County.”  “Election storm warning“.

The profit motive

“Federal investigators raided three for-profit college campuses in South Florida this week in a U.S. Education Department probe. … The office generally investigates allegations of waste, fraud and abuse of federal education dollars.”  “3 Florida college campuses raided in federal investigation“.

Not ready for prime time

Seeking the Reagan vote, Freddie does the “misspoke” thing: “Thompson makes it clear: No drilling in the Everglades“.

Osceola

“Osceola County commissioners should stop invoking Jesus in prayers at public meetings after a church-state watchdog group complained about the practice, their attorney has advised them.  At least one commissioner has refused. If called to lead the invocation, Commissioner Paul Owen said he would continue his tradition of praying 'in Christ's name.'”  “Osceola leaders are told: Keep Jesus out of prayers“.

“Special-interest battle”

“Florida may have to shell out $600,000 to print new driver-safety handbooks, thanks to a special-interest battle in the Capitol.”

Ponta Vedra Beach-based National Safety Commission has been printing the manuals for free in return for exclusive advertising rights in the 1 million handbooks that go out to motorists statewide.

The company signed the contract with the state two years ago under a privatization push by former Gov. Jeb Bush. But rival driving schools, championed by state Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, have managed to scuttle the deal.

Last spring, Fasano inserted what's called “proviso” language in the budget ordering the state Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to print the handbook without advertising.

Gov. Charlie Crist vetoed the language but left in place about $600,000 Fasano had included in the budget to pay for printing new handbooks.

This summer, Florida Providers of Traffic Safety Inc., which employed Fasano's former aide as a lobbyist and had ties to one of his business partners, filed a lawsuit that argued Crist couldn't veto the “proviso” language without also removing the money.

Leon County Judge John Cooper agreed in a hearing Wednesday, and ordered the veto expunged.

“The governor could have vetoed both or neither, but not the proviso without the appropriation,” said the lawyer for the group, Kelly Overstreet Johnson.

The ruling is the latest — but not likely the last — chapter in the fight between Fasano and National Safety Commission President Ken Underwood, who has filed his own lawsuit challenging the legality of the proviso language.

“Driving schools, politicians keep battle going over safety books“.

“To improve performance numbers”?

“The brutal death of a toddler this week, allegedly at the hands of her caregiver, has reignited child-welfare administrators' fears that Miami investigators and supervisors routinely rushed suspected abuse cases to closure to improve performance numbers.”  “Was DCF too quick to close cases?“

A fine idea at the time

“Samuel Lopez, the only Broward Democrat running for a state House seat in a Republican-dominated district, has dropped out of the race.”  “Broward Democrat withdraws from House race“.

Is this news?

“Jeb Bush Jr. supporting Giuliani in GOP presidential contest“.

Election season is upon us

“If Republicans don't think their presidential candidates are on the conservative extreme of issues important to them, Democrats are reminding them there is another choice: Katherine Harris.”

The Florida Democratic Party is launching a parody Web site that will feature videos of Republican presidential candidates' statements on issues like immigration, foreign policy, taxes and others. The idea is if they want someone on the far right on any of those topics, Harris is their candidate.

“It's comparing her to the candidates on the Republican platform - who hates immigrants more, who will fight to reduce the number of children with health insurance, et cetera,” said Mark Bubriski, a spokesman for the state party. …

On http://www.draftkatherineharris.com , the party has posted a video that opens with the question “Worried about the Republican field?” It then shows Republican candidates criticizing each other or bumbling their words. The video rolls out the message: “Real Americans need a candidate … a candidate with courage … the courage to be … a real Republican.”

The screen then shows an extreme close-up of Harris' lips and the image gradually pulls back to show her whole face.

It's a tease for material that will be posted throughout the weekend to coincide with the Republican Party of Florida's “Presidency IV” weekend, during which candidates will address activists and participate in a debate.

“Democrats want Katherine Harris drafted for president“.

Your tax dollars at work

“Here's how it works: An Internet phone device dials from 20,000 to as many as 40,000 phone numbers in the lawmaker's district, at about 100 numbers per second.”

The numbers are culled from voter-registration lists and must not be skewed by political party because congressional funds pay the $2,500 to $3,500 tab.

The voter hears a message from the lawmaker asking whether he or she wants to join a town-hall meeting immediately. Pressing “pound” puts the voter in electronic line to ask a question. The lawmaker sees a list of waiting questioners and runs through as many as he has time for. Anyone who doesn't get to ask a question can leave a message and get a response.

Lawmakers hold the meetings on weeknights when they're in Washington, and they usually last an hour or two. The monthly sessions are in addition to i

“Lawmakers go dialing for voters via Internet“.

Apathy.com

“He gives kids reasons to care about politics“.

Plus … you don't have to interact with other humans

“Once controversial, the school is now seen as a fixture on the educational landscape, and good preparation for the increasing number of online options in college.”  “Soaring enrollment marks Florida Virtual School's first decade“.

Reverse privatization

“Florida's prison chief wants to abolish the St. Petersburg nonprofit company that has provided work and job training for inmates for 26 years and survived more than its share of controversy.”

Corrections Secretary James McDonough says the company, known as PRIDE, provides too few jobs for inmates, pays its top executives too much and has outlived its usefulness.

“I believe I can run it better,” McDonough said. “I'm trying to maximize the number of inmates that we get to work. It's a key part of re-entry, and it reduces idleness in prisons.”

And isn't this nice:

Chief executive Jack Edgemon was paid $200,000 last year and a $50,000 bonus.

PRIDE endured a scandal in recent years by losing $19-million in loans to a series of spinoff companies without fully informing the Legislature.

“McDonough's determination to abolish PRIDE could become highly political.”

PRIDE has friends in the Legislature and will mobilize a fierce lobbying effort to stay alive. Among its arguments will be that in tight budget times, it makes no sense to expand the size of government. …

But the final decision will rest with the Republican-controlled Legislature in the 2008 regular session. Many lawmakers may be skeptical that state government can run a program better than a public-private entity.

A bigger problem may be that as inmate work programs expand, they will provide stiffer competition with free enterprise. That's a recipe for controversy in a Legislature dominated by pro-business Republicans, where the collective voices of business lobby groups often speak loudly [('ya think?)].

McDonough insists that the state can run inmate work programs better and at no increase in cost to Florida taxpayers. How? By using [the 'nonprofit'] PRIDE's profit margin, nearly $7-million last year.

The essence of PRIDE's fight for survival is that the state can't possibly do it for less.

“Battle brews over Florida's idle inmates“.

Our review of today's Florida political news and punditry follows.

“Brutal negotiations” on tap

“A House gambit to force bigger property-tax breaks tied to a sales-tax increase has turned the Legislature's $11 billion property-tax cutting session on end, forcing lawmakers to start negotiations again from scratch.”  “Tax reform hits big snag“.

“The Florida Senate passed a property tax cut package Wednesday that disappointed both Republicans and Democrats and rejected provisions the House wants that greatly expand the savings.  The Senate's action and a suddenly dormant House set up what could be brutal negotiations between the chambers to find common ground or a new plan.”  “No real progress on tax reform plan“.

“Senators are clearly worried about the effect their $9.7 billion package will have on local government and school finances. By contrast, the House is driven by a conservative, anti-tax philosophy and is holding out for a $14 billion plan, which it intends to pass today.”  “Tax vote today to pit House against Senate“.  See also “Tax-Cut Plans Diverge“, “Democrats introduce third property-tax tax plan“, “New tax plan promises deep cuts for S. Florida“, “Senate ratifies massive tax cut“, “Senate passes part of property tax cut plan“, “Like it or not, lawmakers get a break this weekend” and “Homestead amendment squeaks through Florida Senate“.

“Some of these guys in Tallahassee are so infatuated with Jeb that I wouldn't blame Columba for being nervous.”

Scott Maxwell this morning: “It's kind of funny that Floridians are so up in arms about taxes. Because the truth of the matter is that we are largely to blame.”

The politicians, you see, have turned us into a bunch of Pavlov's dogs. They mention the words tax cut, and we start salivating.

Most of us don't bother to stop and ask whose taxes they are vowing to cut — or, more important, whose taxes might increase as a result. All politicians have to do is tape a campaign commercial that mentions they love the flag and hate taxes, and we drool all the way to the voting booths.

Want proof? Well, consider this: In the past decade alone, Florida lawmakers have passed a whopping $20 billion worth of tax cuts.

But I'm betting you don't feel $20 billion richer.

That's because much of those cuts came from eliminating the so-called intangible taxes. And unless you have big money in business trusts, stocks, bonds or mutual funds, you're not benefiting from that tax break.

But the special interests have also had their way with our tax system. Over the years, Florida politicians have exempted everything from lawyer bills to dry-cleaning. From TV commercials to newspaper ads. From ostrich feed to space satellites.

Maxwell continues:

Anyone who tries to tell you all of these cuts were meant to help the “little guy” should be ejected into space with one of those tax-free satellites.

Here's the bottom line:

Yes, let's cut taxes. Let's just cut them for everyone.

But House Speaker Marco Rubio and Senate President Ken Pruitt don't seem so interested in doing that. After all, that would mean changing things done by Jeb Bush. And some of these guys in Tallahassee are so infatuated with Jeb that I wouldn't blame Columba for being nervous.

“Maybe we should study tax cuts“.  Unfortunately, Maxwell can't bring himself to mention the political party responsible for this tax talk garbage, and instead refers to “politicians” generally.

Gravel

“The sparse crowds that attend Mike Gravel's events like his ideas but hold little hope.”  “This Democrat doesn't shun Florida“.  See also “Dems to hear from candidate Mike Gravel“.

“Populist scold”

“Reviving his role as populist scold, Gov. Crist on Tuesday accused the state's second-largest private homeowners insurer of being unfair and breaking the law. As the governor acknowledged, though, he can't prove those charges. He also wouldn't be specific about his allegations. But this confrontation has been coming since January.”  “New target is Allstate“.

Cotterell

“Courage? Not quite“.

SCHIP

“Hoping to overturn a presidential veto, U.S. House Democrats and their allies have pressured Republican lawmakers from Central Florida to break party ranks and support an expansion of children's health insurance.”

Their efforts are expected to fall short today when the House votes on whether to override President Bush's Oct. 3 veto of a plan to increase federal funding of children's health care by $35 billion over five years.

All seven Republican House members from Central Florida opposed the original bill. In recent interviews, each said he or she would vote to sustain the veto, despite a steady stream of attack ads from national Democrats and activist groups.

And then there's Tommy:

U.S. Rep. Tom Feeney — also a Democratic target in the 2008 election — has borne the brunt of the interest-group criticism, including a television spot that condemns him for taking government-funded health insurance as a congressman while denying it for needy children.

After today's vote, the Oviedo Republican plans to present a compromise conceived by Republican U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez of Florida. It will focus on extending tax credits to low-income families rather than significantly boosting the budget to cover more children.

“Area lawmakers feel heat to alter kid-health vote“.

Obama

“Local Money Is On Obama, Even As Clinton Leads Polls“.

“Unsatisfactory”

“Too many women in Florida lack health insurance, smoke or suffer from high blood pressure or diabetes, a state-by-state analysis on women's health revealed Wednesday.  The report gave Florida an “unsatisfactory” grade, in part for failing to meet national milestones for cervical-cancer screenings, physical activity and obesity.”  “Florida women's health care lags“.

>“A shadowy conspiracy”

“Terrified that voters may get the power to kill development projects, Florida business interests are unleashing an array of political weaponry to defeat the Hometown Democracy initiative.  A mass mailing from one opposition group alleged that the Hometown movement is a shadowy conspiracy fomented by out-of-state special interests called 'electors,' another name for voters.”  “Business Groups Fire At Initiative“.

“Self righteous”

The Palm Beach Post editors: “Rep. Joe Pickens, R-Palatka, is like a guy who always waits for his dinner companions to pick up the check, then wants to know why they can't eat as cheaply as he does.”

Apparently, Rep. Pickens is tired of counties and cities in Florida complaining that state-mandated cuts in property-tax revenue - with more to come - make it hard for them to balance their books without cutting services. This week, the self-righteous Rep. Pickens promised to exempt any municipality from tax cuts if it could demonstrate a record of raising taxes less than the Legislature had in the past five years.

“Hypocrisy on taxes“.

“The Florida Dream”

“If you want to know how Florida went from a sparsely populated backwater state to a booming, multicultural destination point, then tune in tonight for a new documentary on Florida's topsy-turvy modern history.”  “Watch It Tonight: The Florida Dream“.