Running Mates

The gubernatorial primaries are over, so it's time to talk running mates. Democrat Jim Davis and Republican Charlie Crist have until Thursday to make their picks, and speculation is rampant in political circles. Crist has been focused so much on that decision that throughout the campaign he has had an unsettling tendency to ask reporters their running mate suggestions.

Among the prospects often mentioned for Crist: state Rep. Jeff Kottkamp, R-Cape Coral; state Sen. Lisa Carlton, R-Osprey; and state Rep. Jennifer Carroll, R-Green Cove Springs, an African-American with a military background. Republicans have also talked up former House Speaker Allan Bense of Panama City, but he's also in the mix of contenders to become the next Florida Republican Party chairman. The pickings from Miami-Dade are slim because, given the bitter intraparty politics there, any selection is sure to infuriate others.

For Davis, who took a beating in the primary for voting in 1990 against compensating two black men wrongly convicted of murder, many Democrats think he needs to pick an African-American. State Rep. Chris Smith of Fort Lauderdale and former state Sen. Daryl Jones of Miami are frequently mentioned, as well as former Miami-Dade commissioner Jimmy Morales and Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle.

Comments

Crist can pick anyone. He will get the base republican vote no matter what. Although, he should focus on someone that will bring out the vote in his high density areas. A black or hispanic will not do that in the north, and could have the opposite effect. He should focus on the independents and the soft dems, in which case he should choose a woman, preferably a jewish woman. Not many.
Ellyn Bogdanoff or Susan Goldstein.
Otherwise Joe Negron or Bill Galvano would be great choices. Joe has over a million to bring to the table and Galvano is a great policy person and well liked.

Bogdanoff is dead politically. She backed the wrong horse in the GOP primary and alienated the Broward powers-that-be. She is now like Fredo.

Negron gave back his campaign donations. I heard that it has been whittled down to three and that the background checks have already been done. At this late date, they wouldn't have time to do background checks on anyone else. This has been going on for months. So, any speculation of other people than the 3 is just noise.

A good choice for Crist would be an individual with leadership experience who will help to draw non-traditional voters to the Republican Party in November...Jennifer Carroll brings her military and legislative leadership background to the table. Coupled with her ethnicity, which would create space within the AA community, she is a solid choice. Carroll is also bright, pleasant and likeable and would be a good fit for Crist on a personal level...the chemistry would be good...

[Robert Charles Pickering]

I raised my voice on behalf of Daryl Jones in my blog Friday http://interstate4jamming.blogspot.com/2006/09/raising-my-voice-for-daryl-jones.html. Jones is young, has an excellent personality and presentation, is a rising star in the Florida Democratic Party, and has a fine background. If Jim Davis wants to win, he has to improve his standing among the African-American community and encourage the South Florida voters to turn out; picking Daryl Jones should do both.

And it's not just pure politics. I strongly believe that Daryl Jones will make an excellent liaison between the governor and legislature to help push through his programmes. And you could not ask for a better individual, IMHO, if for, God forbid, some unforseen reason a Governor Davis would be unable to serve.

I strongly encourage everyone in and out of the blogosphere to contact the Davis campaign and let it know that Daryl Jones is far and away the best choice for LG.

George LeMieux has a strong chance if he wants it. It's really his for the taking.

Lisa Carlton will be chosen...it is already a done deal.

Think about this - if Davis picks an AA (especially a military man like Jones) Charlie would just look like he was copying him - a tit for tat thing. Plus, if Davis picks an AA (which he will most likely do), the AA voters will go with the D's. So, it wouldn't do Charlie any good at that point to pick an AA. He should pick someone he really likes personally and who he wants to work with for the next 4-8 years. It is going to come down to a personal choice for him. The running mate for Charlie is really no factor in the race. He can win regardless of who he picks. I predict he will pick a friend like Kottkamp, Galvano or Haridopolous.

9:38 Lisa is that you? Quit promoting yourself. You sound desperate.

Haridopolous and Crist together on the same ticket would be a bit too Greek for some, I suspect...

[Imadashell]

Goldstein (faux Jewish in a Jewish district) the Dems will crush her in the General..The election was more like a Dade Circuit Judges race.She has been outed and needs a Job.The best candidate to run with Davis is Chris Smith.Jones has a problem record on the Federal appointment and Davis dont need no more aggrevation.Smith is well liked in Tallahassee and will work well with the New Administration ..Its a twofer..A great african american leader from a county of 1.8 million (700,000 Reg Dems) where 33 percent of the population is African American.Are you listening Jim??

[Imadashell]

Charley Crist will never pick an AA running mate ..Remember the base boys.Draw a line across the state from lakeland north..you know thats where all the guys with pickups gunracks and rebel flags live .Charley has already aliented the GOP Jeb base with his pro abortion stand..These guys are the mainstay of the base and have real questions about Charly's sexuality..Come on boys a 50 year old single candidate in a rental apartment that Drives a jag convertable and AA on the Gop ballot.The base is staying home in your Condelessa gets picked.a

I hope Charlie does not pick Carlton - she is way too weird. Kottkamp would be a good choice.

How about Toni Jennings again? She was appointed not elected. If she would consider THAT would be THE choice!

Bense and Jennings have told Charlie that they don't want it. Bense is looking seriously at state party chairman. He said it has cost him far too much money to be an elected official (to the tune of millions). Jennings said she is ready to go to the private sector as well. So, even if Charlie wanted them, they have taken themselves out of the mix. I heard from someone close to the campaign that Carlton is no longer being considered. It is down to three and she is not one of them.

[Leon Dem]

I think Crist should pick Galvano, a nice guy, moderate Repub who also is good friends and supporter of Alex Villalobos. When Alex grabs back power in the Senate(Rules Chair again, or maybe even Pruitt's leadership spot?) it would be easier for Crist/Galvano to get things done in the legislature. And that is the primary job of the LTG.

I think Davis should go with an Hispanic LTG, to pick up votes. An Hispanic also would help with moderate cuban delegation from Dade in both the Senate and the House.Between them and the Dems, they could pass some legislation.

This is how it went down for Crist. They sent out questionaires to a whole bunch of people. (so, a lot of people THINK they are being considered). From those responses, they narrowed it to 12 people and did personal interviews with those 12. (all 12 of those still THINK they are being considered - hence all the self promotion). Now, it is down to 3 people who were interviewed this weekend in Miami. No one knows who the three are, but I heard from a reputable source that they are Dockery, Haridopolous and Kottkamp.

[Imadashell]

See bubas CC will never choose Carlton come one one of you needs to tell me that Carlton wont pissoff the BASE .Surveys .Come on tell me ...HAHAHAHA!You cannot for the resons stated above your just too chicken to admit it..Pretend its 1960..

Imadashell,

That post did not make any sense to me. Could you please restate in coherent terms what you were saying?

i like mike

[gatordem]

Daryl Jones is one of the most impressive individuals I have ever met. He would be an excellent choice for a Davis LG. However, he should go on the ticket for his merit, which is considerable. I am afraid that if he is picked, Davis will be criticized for pandering to African Americans. That would NOT be the reason Jim would pick Daryl Jones, but the opportunity for criticism would be there.

As much as I admire Daryl Jones, I still believe an Hispanic from South Florida (or even Orlando) would be the better choice in this election. Certainly an Hispanic from Miami-Dade would be HUGE. Therefore, my favorite for a Davis LG pick is Alex Penelas, also a very impressive individual. Anyone worth picking will have some baggage associated with them. Penelas, however has run statewide for the Senate nomination in 2004. He is a bright, attractive, eloquent candidate.

I would be happy with either choice.

Dockery would be a dangerous candidate. Her ties to the bullet train would give the D's ammunition. I would go Kottkamp or Haridopolous.

[George]

Davis' best move is to pick Chris Smith. Some people talk about the North Florida bubbas, but what happened when Doug Wilder was elected governor in Virginia, the "cradle" of the old Confederacy?
Smith has the brains, the family, the experience and the ability to work with Republicans in the Legislature.

[George]

Davis' best move is to pick Chris Smith. Some people talk about the North Florida bubbas, but what happened when Doug Wilder was elected governor in Virginia, the "cradle" of the old Confederacy?
Smith has the brains, the family, the experience and the ability to work with Republicans in the Legislature.

George LeMieux is the safest bet of all of them. He is a rising superstar and very well though of by political insiders and by the rank and file in the GOP. Cannot go wrong with George.

[GOP Read]

isn't Haridopolous gay too though?

[True Blue]

12:16 PM
That's because he IS a republican
he did endorse Jeb in 1998 you know

[True Blue]

OMG
Crist and Haridopolous
would be like

Plato and Socrates in the Governor's mansion we will see homo orgies round the clock

[Ron Mills]

11:38 AM
While I think Alex would be a great choice

he would be beat up by his own party for the Miami-WTO affair and being in Spain while Gore campaigned in Miami in 2000

and then there is Elian Gonzalaz and Janet Reno affair

[George]

Haridopolos is as straight as they come. Wife, two kids, Nascar fan. Obviously, some people here think you're not a man unless you look and act like the Gubernator.

I think Jimmy Morales would be a good option as a way of galvanizing the hispanics in the I-4 with his puerto rican roots, as well as adding some cuban votes from Miami-Dade.

I think Carroll is the best option for Crist, it will force the dems to maintain their base, while davis has to keep the black vote.

12:47 PM
isn't that a rent-a-wife
and the kids are hers not his

At first, I thought Chris Smith had the inside track on the LG spot, but the more I think about it, the better Darryl Jones might be.

There is the service exxaturations which put the kibash on his Air Force Secretary appointment, but that's pretty much ancient history now.

He's very likeable, well spoken and I think can give a lot of energy to the ticket. Plus, he would bring in a lot of Rod Smith supporters since he endorsed Smith during the primaries.

At first, I thought Chris Smith had the inside track on the LG spot, but the more I think about it, the better Darryl Jones might be.

There is the service exxaturations which put the kibash on his Air Force Secretary appointment, but that's pretty much ancient history now.

He's very likeable, well spoken and I think can give a lot of energy to the ticket. Plus, he would bring in a lot of Rod Smith supporters since he endorsed Smith during the primaries.

Why does the Sptimes continue to support this gay bashing website? With a few notable exceptions, the posts sound like they are written by Bevis or Butthead. Close it down, it has become little more than a sounding board for irresponsible goofs who hide behind anonynimity. Offer a signed letter to the editor, or guest column as an alternative for the two or three bloggers who are intelligent enough to hang more than two sentences together. I am permanently signing off. I hope that others who share my digust will do the same.

Is anyone promoting a black actually NOT black? You bunch of self-serving idiots. You are not more the swing vote, which determines winners, than the corporate billionaires. The difference is at least the corporate folks get things from government other than a welfare check.

Get off your lazy a**es and stop following around the Democratic party like a bunch of lemurs off a cliff.

Blacks are the cheap whores of the Democratic Party and just sit there with your hand out. Your not the biggest minority anymore, you already vote Democratic 88-90%, so why should you get any attention? The swing vote D's & R's equally hate the welfare state that sucks dry state coffers. You will be a turnoff to the working class and even Davis isn't dumb enough to let that happen.

[Ron Mills]

01:24 PM
I am white
check out my profile
and I am promoting
Darryl Jones
not because he is Arican American
but because is battle tested and qualified to be governor

I think christ should pick Marco my only warning is: do not get on a plane if calls at the last min. and says "go on without me I'll catch the next flight"

DAVIS: Would be wise to Darryl Jones. He is popular, has run statewide, is enormously talented and widely respected. Good solid military background, too. That nonsense about exaggerating his flught hours that came out during the Senate confirmation hearings was just politics. Being picked on by the Rs won't harm any D.

Smith just has a big mouth and comes from a County which may be 33% AA, but do they turn out to vote???

CRIST: Will more than likely go with George Lemieux. Old, truested friend. No. 2 at the AG's office., Campaign Mgr... On the other hand, many in the R right, base, hate Lemieux for a number of reasons.

Goldstein has problems of her own. Bogdanoff did not support Crist in the primary. Negron did. He's Hispanic (when convenient)but bring little else. Haridopolos? More like Alexander and Hephaestion... The kids ARE the wife's, not his. All an arrangement. And Crist has A LOT to overcome in THAT area, what with being endorsed by gay publications in his primary. Carroll? Good choice. AA, military background. Too smart for Crist and her loyalty is not proven. No. Lemieux is the one.

1:29, you sure he's battle tested? Maybe you should ask the folks who served with him in the Military who spoke to the US Senate about his record.

He's a great guy but brings nothing to the table. Davis could choose the little green man from Mars and STILL get 90% of the black vote. No will turnout mean squat.

Hey posted sep.10th at 01:28pm. Come on Arza tells us what you really think!

Haridopolos and his wife have a newborn, together. Get it straight you idiot.

Crist won't choose his own campaign manager, you idiot.

And Davis won't choose a black, they bring NOTHING TO THE TABLE.

1:33, that's funny but I'm not being racist, just speaking facts.

1:33 I am not Ralph Arza and I did not write the 1:28 post. But I agree with it 100%. It is plain for all to see. Unfortunately you Ds, having to be so "politically correct", have lost the ability to say things like that and therefore your touch with reality.

The right choice for Christ would be Allen Bense not sure if Allen would do it and frankely I think that Bense would say no but, it would be the smart choice.

Davis has to pick someone who can bring out some energy across the state because he sure doesn't. He needs a D that already has state wide name rec.

Crist wouldnt chose his own campaign manager? You mean like George W. didnt chose the head of his own VP vetting team?

I heard Davis called former Hialeah Mayor Raul Martinez this morning.
That would be one heck of a ticket Davis/Martinez

You mean the same Martinez who stood trial a few years ago in federal Court on corruption charges? Yes, please, Ds, pick him!!

The R's have their choice either George LeMieux or Jim Scott. If either one gets picked watch your backs!

Haridopolos and his wife just had a baby a couple of months ago.

You guys are ruthless...

Wasn't Carlton an early Gallagher suppoorter?

And Carroll is no substance. Name one important piece of legislation she has passed?

For the dems, it's a typical Catch 22. If they pick a black LG, they appease their black voter but run the risk of being shut out of many parts of the panhandle and north Florida. Sorry if you don't believe that we still live in a world like that, because we do. Maybe they pick one, maybe they don't.

I haven't heard anything about Rod Smith. It would be a good move for both sides. Davis gets all the Smithites and Smith is in the catbird seat in four years if/when Davis loses.

For the Republicans, the number one driving force for Crist should be to pair off when somebody who is married and has a family and WHO IS NOT AN ATTORNEY. That is one place where Kottkamp, Galvano, Lemieux, etc. come up short.

Davis won't pick Rod. US Sugar's entire goal is to beat Davis. They may have lost the Primary battle, but they will win the General war. They've wounded Davis beyond repair.

Let's play a little game of trivia. Quick, someone guess the last time a candidate for an executive office chose his best friend or closest adviser as his running mate.

Oh, yes, and don't forget, the best friend or closest adviser has to be someone who has never held public office before.

I'll be back around 10 with the answer.

Haridopolus is married to a very nice person. She has two kids from a prior marriage and they have a baby together. So, sorry, nice try but he is not gay! Either he or Kottkamp would be a tremendous pick. Dockery - no way.

3:40, who cares if Crist's LG is an attorney? This is the general election, not the Republican primary. Indies and Dems don't have the same visceral, violent reaction to attorneys as the Chamber/tort reform crowd does.

If Charlie doesn't watch out, he might actually end up with an LG who is qualified to be governor. GASP!! What would people think?? What would they say????

3:40, who cares if Crist's LG is an attorney? This is the general election, not the Republican primary. Indies and Dems don't have the same visceral, violent reaction to attorneys as the Chamber/tort reform crowd does.

If Charlie doesn't watch out, he might actually end up with an LG who is qualified to be governor. GASP!! What would people think?? What would they say????

Haridopolos is a great young conservative leader and would make an excellent pick. Kottkamp is another trial lawyer not sure he is the best selection. Carlton does nothing for the ticket. Jennifer Carroll would be a good pick as well.

Kottkamp spent his entire career as a DEFENSE lawyer. He only moved to the other side a couple of months ago. Funny, you people who all bash trial lawyers... if a drunk driver hurt your kid, you would be the first ones to call a lawyer that you hate so much. Get a life and quit being such asses.

Let's quit talking about demographics and start talking about qualifications for a minute. Carlton, granted; she is completely qualified. Carroll?? Anyone care to take a stab at it?

The only reason I can see for people bringing Carroll's name up is that she is female and AA. Let's hope Charlie doesn't make his pick based on affirmative action alone.

4:20, right on.

Crist will pick based solely on LOYALTY: None more loyal than Lemieux.

[gatordem]

Ron,

The only thing on your list that is really questionable is being in Spain in 2000. (I don't really know enough about the facts of that situation).

The WTO was mainly City of Miami Cops. Elian was a Federal affair.

Hey, I said anybody worth picking would have some baggage. You have to weigh the pluses and the minuses and make a choice.

I can tell you that George (even though he could have ANY position he wants, does not want to be LG. He will be chief of staff, which is WAY more powerful than LG. In fact, he is playing an instrumental role in deciding who will be LG.

Thanks, George, for letting us know!

Carroll is such a light weight. Nice person, looks good, articulate, AA. That's it. She is not all that smart. She is just packaged well. Her biggest piece of legislation had to do with hair salons.

daryl jones is a complete nut job. And nobody on earth knows Chris Smith. I'd bet most voters think he's Rod Smith.

Except the GOP will be the first to remind everyone that Chris Smith endorsed Jeb Bush in '98.

The best bets are Kendrick Meek and Kathy Rundle. Jimmy Morales is a good second-tier choice as is Kristen Jacobs.

[Robert Charles Pickering, Lakeland]

FYI: I am a white guy from Lakeland, and while Davis would certainly benefit with the AA and South Florida community in picking Daryl Jones, I suggested him because he is IMHO the best of several good potential LG choices.

The whole SecAF crap was simple politics at a time when the GOP majority wanted nothing less than do deny Bill Clinton anything he wanted.

I truly believe that Jones would do a supurb job in keeping the lines of communication open between Governor Davis and the legislature, as he has recent legislative experience and knows members to help promote the governor's agenda. And I'm sure he would be an excellent voice in suggesting ideas to help our beloved state.

Chris Smith is a class act.

[Roaring 20's]

4:51, I believe what you meant to say is that Carroll is a mile wide and an inch deep.

[central floridian]

I think Jennifer Carrol would be an EXCELLENT choice!!!

She is an inspiring speaker, and it would be GREAT to have the first black LG be from the Republican Party.

CRIST- PICK CARROL!!!!!!

[central floridian]

I think Jennifer Carrol would be an EXCELLENT choice!!!

She is an inspiring speaker, and it would be GREAT to have the first black LG be from the Republican Party.

CRIST- PICK CARROL!!!!!!

A few years ago, Florida State Representative Jennifer Carroll, speaking at a gathering of Republican leaders down in Miami, made a joke about Hillary Clinton. The joke went that Clinton was visited by the ghosts of three dead Presidents, and she asked each what she could do to improve the nation. Lincoln’s ghost told here “to go a theater.”

This joke (and not a very funny one, I should add — Sorry, Jennifer — raised the hackles of some Democrats in the state who demanded an apology. Apparently, they interpreted the joke to mean that Clinton should go to a theater, as Lincoln did, and get shot or assassinated

[pundit]

10:13 a/k/a jack Corry:

stop promoting your "horse" kottkamp. and you say carlton is weird???

[citrusfan]

some wisdom from the grapefruitblog:

Mike H and Kottkamp would be awful picks and whoever is heading his LG search team is giving him bad advice. Think about it, Mike H is from Brevard, home to the most conservative Republican in Congress. Tells you that Brevard is voting Republican, and Kottkamp is from Lee, do you think Naples is going to vote Democrat? So what do Mike H and Kottkamp bring to the Crist ticket??? Nothing! Neither is really a legislative leader and Mike H is really like a Crist clone.

Citrusfan, you obviously don't understand elections. It is all about TURNOUT! That is why you would pick a running mate from the base of your party. As for being a legislative leader, the word on the street is that Kottkamp will be Majority Leader under Rubio (and he has Chaired several committeess in the House), and you can be sure that Mike H will play a big role if he is around for an Atwater Presidency. Let's stop knocking down the potential LG's and start building them up. After all, one of the people mentioned is going to end up being picked.

From what I hear, davis has asked a few people who all said no...

They don't want to be on the ticket with the man who traded his vote agaist pitts and lee for personal political gain...

From what I hear, davis has asked a few people who all said no...

They don't want to be on the ticket with the man who traded his vote agaist pitts and lee for personal political gain...

It looks like that trade to become majority leader will cost him the house on adams st.

From what I hear, davis has asked a few people who all said no...

They don't want to be on the ticket with the man who traded his vote agaist pitts and lee for personal political gain...

It looks like that trade to become majority leader will cost him the house on adams st.

[citrusfan]

6:13

I don't have all the answers so maybe you can help me. You have a conservative heading the ticket. Explain how mike h could possibly drive turn out? And if I hear "energize the base" you are fired. The party will drive turn out no matter which name mentioned is chosen, period. Are you a 1st year poly-sci major?

The LG pick doesn't drive diddley. Need a safe pick that will be 150% loyal, has intelligence, real life experience and could run the state if they had to.

Wow... there is 6:50 who is so powerful and has access to all this closely held information but spends his evenings on The Buzz. Right...

Actually, if you read the article, it specifically mentions that several very prominent politicians are lobbying heavily to be on the ticket. This is because they understand that Davis will sweep the election.

[Ron Mills]

06:59 PM
So why did Jeb do a flim flam devious job on Florida voters in 2002 when he and Frank Brogran ran just so he could illegally and against the constitution appoint Toni Jennings?

06:50 PM
From what you hear?
where from Fox New's
you beer guted piece of trailer trash
or are you just off your meds and a former Gallagar supporter

Charlie picking Mike H is like Jeb picking Feeney. Is Mike H ready to be governor?

The Democrats would blast the pick as being extreme and proof that Charlie is riding in the middle lane with his right blinker on.

[citrusfan]

ron mills:

um, because he could?

He was and is the head of the Party until the Inaugural.

[Paul D. Harvill]

For both candidates, this decision is going to be very difficult as there are so few who have state-wide recognition nowadays for Lt. Gov.

[Ron Mills]

citrusfan
Wrong!!!!!
he appointed Jennings after taking the oath of office in 2003
and by our consitution he had to call for a election to replace a LG so soon after taking office
which he knew about but refused to do any way
sort of a Bush family thing never saw a law which they would think ment them
and could care less about any constitution or right of the lowley voters

None of these people are good choices. Charlie has left out the obvious ones.

Haridopolis, is very much like Gallagher, why the hell would Charlie want him? Hes a right wing lunatic. Probably got married for politics. He is gay.

Charlie should stop the pandering and pick the right person. Stop the politics Charlie and stop letting all the gurus pull you in all directions. Pick a peoples candidate. none of the above names mentioned are.

[JC Penneys]

1:24, 1:28, 1:34, and 1:37,
your white sheets are in.

[citrusfan]

Ron:

It is not in question when he appointed Jennings - the record is clear. You question his authority to do so, yet no challenge was brought. Bygones.

I fail to see your point as it relates to my earlier comments about LG suitability, but will agree to disagree and be done with it.

The solid base of support developed by Rod Smith over the past year should be added to the D ,ticket.
Nelson, Davis/ Smith, Sink vs. Harris, Crist/?, Lee. Sounds like a fair fight. This would be a strong statewide ticket and a wise way to get past the primary divisions. Davis/Smith would be one of the strongest tickets fielded in this new century.

Davis needs to make nice with blacks after the nonsense about Pitts & Lee. (Don't forget, he is not the only politician who voted NO.) That being the case, Darryl Jones is the best pick. I don't know where you get off callinghim a not job. He has a distinguished record and is a man with great ability.

Crist doesn't need to worry about making nice withthe blacks. They vote D anway. He doesn;t need to make nice with Hispanics. The Cubans vote R anyway and all the others have their hands out for the Ds no matter what. So he can afford to choose based on compatibility and loyalty. Lemieux is the best choice since he is loyal, able - and a family man, to complement the sexual-orientationally challenged Crist.

I think the kingmaker, Jim Scott will be the power behind the Crist throne. (Somebody better be.)

Hey everybody, 3:57 here. So I got distracted and allowed you all to have a few more minutes to answer today's trivia question, but I guess no one seems to know the answer (or even enough to venture a guess), so I'll go ahead and spill the beans!

To refresh your memory without you having to scroll up, our question today went to those folks out there who seem to think Mr. Lemiuex will be tapped as Charlie's LG. The question was, guess the last time a candidate for an executive office chose his best friend or closest adviser as his running mate. The best friend or closest adviser has to be someone who has never held public office before.

No takers, so here's the answer:

It was Congressman Matt Santos (better known as Jimmy Smits) choosing former White House Chief of Staff Leo McGarry (the late John Spencer) to run as his VP on THE WEST WING!!

I hope that illustrates how DUMB that idea is on this board and would be for Charlie Crist.

could Bob Graham be an LG? I miss his acapella.

If Davis could ask the voters, they would probably say "Davis and Smith". In fact they just did last week. Go for it guys.

Why do these blogs always have to denigrate into nastiness? Why do you people always have mean comments to make about people who have done nothing to you?

Can we stop with the gay comments? Jeez come up with something new.

Citrusfan: A geography lesson... Naples is in COLLIER County not Lee County.

Lets get real. All the people mentioned as possible running mates are UNKNOWNS. They may have some little recognition in their own areas but no one else could care less. How energizing would any of them be for Crist? He needs someone who is known.

money matters. That is the deciding factor. Politics is dirty.

OK, his real name is BRUCE. Trying to stop the gay comments. If the shoe fits

Crist is so sexually inhibited, it is a shame. The democrats will have a field day.. and the legacy of this state went down the tubes. No other way to say it. and, hope it isn't so, but no doubt it is.

10:30, you idiot. The same reason you say Crist doesn't need to focus on the Blacks is the VERY same reason Davis doesn't need to either.

Blacks are too lazy to do anything other than vote Democratic. Why in the world should Davis focus on them? Wake up and get a clue you bunch of self serving idiots.

It's just like the papers giving Hastings the Crook all this credit for speaking straight and candid to Davis about focusing on Blacks and not ignoring Broward County. He's just trying to get PAID. Not a single writer in this state has the intellect or the nads to hone in on that point. That all think he's great for telling Davis to "focus" on the single most Democartic constituency and the single most Democratic county for a General election? Are you kidding? Christ, wake up media!

No, HER name is Kelly. And I just think that it is really hateful and uncalled for.

The fact is, Charlie Crist can pick anyone he wants. Male, female, white, black, known or unknown. It is his call and his alone. So why don't we all grow up and support whoever it is and stop these personal attacks.

These threads are really unbelievable.

I think the media, Jeb, the legislature and most of the IN THE KNOW, people in this state think Charlie Crist is Gay. and up till now, who cared., He is the republican nominee of the 4th largest state in the Union. God help him when the Democrats unleash whatever and take this state back.. Can't wait, VERY INTERESTING, and just what he deserves.. McGreavy sitch, would be too nice.,. He deceived this state, and the people will prevail.

[gatordem]

10:44

Is that you Adam? I didn't know you were such a fan of Bob's singing. I think he's having too much fun doing what he's doing.

11:17 you are so nasty, what is the problem, you are a democrat??? Whatever happens, Charlie was the best thing to happen to Florida in a long time.

11:20 are you kidding.. The best thing to happen to FLA.. MY GOD, you really are a troubled soul. He will destroy this state, just give CC time..

Drop the drama, he won't destroy anything. It doesn't matter who he chooses cause he will still beat Davis. Davis will choose a black because he's an idiot. He'll go down as a novelty just like when Ferraro was chosen. No impact whatsoever.

11:29 I feel sorry for you all, Charlie Crist will disgrace this state, I bet ya.. no doubt.. and after all you people slamming your thoughts, from hear to everywhere.. Count on this, he will be brought down by the Dems in a heartbeat, and it won't even take them alot of money of effort.. I think I will copy this thread, because I know I am right.

How unfortunate this has become a negative discussion. This is an exciting time for both parties.

The case can naturally be made for many people to be LG. On the D side, Chris Smith is intelligent and articulate. He is a former R which may hurt him. But his personality and wit would greatly benefit Davis who is very dry. Gelber is equally as smart and funny and would add a lot to the ticket. Darryl Jones is pretty solid too.

On the R side there are some good options too. Galvano is smart and has a great family. He will be a leader in the House when Sansom takes over in 2008.He would be an asset to Crist. Kottkamp has been a Majority Whip in the past and will probably be Majority Leader. He sponsored the Parental Notice of Abortion bill which would help Crist secure the R base. He was also the sponsor of the Civil Rights bill that Crist worked so hard to pass a few years ago. His wife and child are also a plus. Dockery would put a woman on the ticket for the Rs and was the Senate sponsor of the Parental Notice bill. Bense took himself out of the running some time ago.

12:21, thank you for bringing some sanity back to the thread. That's the first intelligent post since ... well, since my last one. :)

Jennifer Carrol brings emense strenghts, she is a experienced beauracrat as past head of Veterns Affairs, she is a distinguished retired millitary at the rank of LT.Commander, she is an ellected Representative and a dynamic speaker able to energize with a wonderful family and children and she has national recognition in DC. Her ethnicity, well that was decided by god, her accomplishments are exemplary and she would make an excellent choice. It is ironic that if we were to describe these same qualities of someone and leave out their ethnicity, that person quickly rise to the top choice. It is also true that the Lt Gov primary responsibility is to have the ability to govern and have a perosonality that matches well with the Governor, the Lt. Gov does not increase support turn out, they have the same effect of candidate wives, people know they are voting for the candidate, no other.

wasnt the governor of New Jersey married with two children when he came out and announced he was gay? AND the only reason he told the world his marriage wasnt real, was because his lover snitched. ANYONE, can be gay. Doesnt make him unable to perform a job. Hairy is NOT governor material. He a a surfer dude who works part time, and married a doctor because SHE brings home the bacon. He was cheting on her until they got married with Tom Lees old aid that was VERY young... Abby... Charlie better look into that.

[gatordem]

12:21 and 2:22

Thank You, Thank you. Thank You

It is definitely a slow political news day when this thread has stayed on the top of the list for so long. I guess it was inevitable that the thread would deteriorate so much after all this time. Thank you for bringing reason back to the thread.

It is interesting to me that much of this thread is about the R choice. Maybe it is because the R’s perceive their choices to be of a wider range. Maybe it is because there is still much division on the R side. A sort of primary hangover of the kind that Dems are more known for.

On the Dem side, I find it curious that not ONE non Hispanic white man or women has been mentioned as a possible choice for LG. Are we SO politically correct on the Dem side that such a choice can not even be IMAGINED? How about Lois Frankel? Or Buddy Dyer? (I might be wrong about a white woman. Did somebody mention Debby Wasserman Schulz’s sister? How about Jim Stork? I’m just throwing our names that haven’t been mentioned. You want to bring the Rod Squad on board? How about Bob Butterworth?

You want to have some fun with this? Let’s start a pool on the dates and times Charlie and Jim will make their announcements? How about who goes first? What do the winners get? Wahdda you say, anybody want to lighten up a bit? We’ll have plenty of time to get serious before November 7th.

The Governor of New Jersey (McGreevy) didn't gett himself in trouble for being gay. He got himself into trouble for sexual harassment. He sexually harassed a staff person who was male, which brought out the gay part of it, but the primary reason was sexual harassment. No one has charged Crist with anyting wrong like that. Just being gay.

[troll]

To paraphrase Cactus Jack Garner, the lieutenant governor position is "not worth a bucket of warm spit." All we're talking about here is the individual in the administration who attends ribbon-cutting ceremonies, reads children's books to kindergarten classes and presides over possum-auctioneering...It would absolutely be a stepdown for Lemieux who will most certainly be the next chief-of-staff. My prediction is that it will be a former state senator or a current state rep to assist with legislation. Otherwise, it wouldn't be a wise move on lemieux's part...

I agree with 7:47. It will be a legislator. With the fragmentation in the Senate and the bad blood between Villalobos and his supporters and Rubio/Rivera and their supporters, he will need to have someone who can get along with them all. Otherwise, no work will get done. Haridopolis was against Villalobos, not sure where Dockery fits in and Kottkamp stayed neutral. So, because of that I would say either Kottkamp or Dockery (if she is still on good terms with everyone).

I agree that Jim Davis/Rod Smith would be the strongest ticket for the democrats. By far.

Crist/ Fasano would be a strong team

[gatordem]

How about Davis / Villalobos? Now that's thinking outside the box.

Someone said Kottkamp would help secure the base? First, he's a trial attorney. Second, THE FRICKIN GOP NOMINEE WHO JUST WON WITH OVER 60% OF THE VOTE DOESN'T NEED TO DO ANYTHING TO SECURE THE BASE. Get a frickin clue.

Dockery is only mentioned in this discussion because she and her staff do the mentioning. That woman wouldn't know hard work if it slapped Doc in the face. She is useless.

Corrine Brown? Oh my God how terrible is she.

Play the race card...how pathetic.

[Leon Dem]

Now I like that Davis/Villalobos combo. You know, Alex was a Democrat all his life before he ran for office. His dad is good friends with Bob Graham. He has a support system within the moderates' circle and he could attract Rod's supporters. He's Cuban, a family man,and a smart attorney...And it would be the ultimate "upyours" to Jebbie, Pruitt, and Atwater!

[troll]

Fasano is a hatchet-man and not a concensus builder. His vitriol would be too divisive (even at the possum auctions). Crist would do better to bring in a Jennifer Carroll, a Bill Galvano, or even to revive Latvala.

Crist and Carlton.....C&C,2006.

[noah]

You are right. Jennifer Carrol has not passed any bill of substance, rarely says anything on the floor. Does not have a grasp at all on any public policy-- worse than Charlie. Merely an attractive AA women who is a Republican with a military background. Also fought to keep sickle cell chapters from getting funds from a MLK license plate she passed. Passed a bill about hair salons- hair braiding in think. Have been given leadership roles as an affirmative action recipient in the Republican party as the only black republican legislator.

Charlie should pick Katherine Harris---that way the RPOF could hand pick a candidate to run in KH's place that has a chance in hell of winning. Then they should send KH, out of the country until after ther election, and mention her as little as possible during the campaign...refer to her only as "Harris". JEB! for US Senate..2206

Yes. Kottkamp spent years as a defense attorney, then became a personal injury lawyer and totally flipped on the tort reform issue. He used to be solid on it, but I guess his bosses got to him and he not only flipped his vote but strongly opposed it. 30 demerits for Mr. Kottkamp on that one. and hopefully takes him out of the running if Crist talks to his supporters before making his choice.

You're right Crist can pick whomever he wants. So why not pick the best person for the job.

I'm thinking Governing Magazine's Public Official of the Year Senator Paula Dockery. We don’t hear her name much but she’s well respected among diverse groups, other than the media, like business leaders, environmentalists, engineers, and law enforcement. She ran Crist's anti murder bill so I would think she would be considered?

Interesting situation - it's been said before here I think, but Davis HAS to hit a homer with his pick because he HAS to find every vote possible, Crist doesn't need to pick based on votes. He needs to pick a strong, solid person who won't hurt him but who is respected and will be someone he wants to be around and associated with for the next 4-8 years. so, all this back and forth about who he should pick to get these votes or those votes is just a lot of wasted breath.

"Oh, and U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown, who was with Davis Tuesday night, told the Buzz she's perfectly happy in congress. "I love my job," she said."

That's it! It's like when the assistant coach says he loves his team and then a week later he's on to a head coaching job. Corrine is THE choice. We'll see the big announcement tomorrow! Davis/Brown Delivers!

and that person is Rod Smith

No member of Congress is going to take a gamble on the Lieutenant Governor ticket.

Again, I repeat, no member of Congress is going to take a gamble on the Lieutenant Governor ticket.

[anonymous]

As of this am, it's Kottkamp, Haridopolis or Dockery. A Kottkamp choice neutralizes the trial bar, normally a big financial supporter of the Dem. candidate.

[Bob]

Crist should pick Will McBride.

Kottkamp couldn't carry Haridopolis's shoes. Dockery is a joke.

Well Mike, nothing like looking desperate to get it....

9:44 You must be that little weasle from the Retail Federation. Didn't you just get your ass handed to you in the Villalobos, Ambler, Planas and Llorrente races? That was most amusing to watch! I hope one day you get hit by a drunk driver and are left maimed and unable to work. Then we will see how fast you dial up one of those lawyers you hate so much. Loser.

12:29 you are clearly either a staffer of Haridopolis or someone who is jealous. You obviously don't know Representative Kottkamp. I met him right after he was elected and can tell you that in the last 6 years I have found him to be intelligent, thoughtful and honorable. He hasn't always voted exactly the way I wanted him to, but he was always upfront and honest about it. And, he always had a good reason. I respect someone like that a lot more than someone who is devious in their behavior. So, before you speak ill of another, you should take the time to get to know them first. I think he would make a fine LG. He would be totally loyal to Charlie and that is the most important quality in an LG.

Haridopolos doesn't bring anything to the table that Crist doesn't already have.

Carroll would be a good choice because she brings diversity to the ticket while not just being a token. She is extremely competent and a good leader.

Hasner should be considered. He is a jewish member from South Florida and could help Charlie a great deal in South Florida and could help take some of the Jewish vote from Davis that tends to always vote democratic.

The ideal choice would be Bense but it doesnt sound like he has any interest

Hasner was a supporter of Gallagher although he didn't come out he was praising Gallagher on the floor at the close of session, seemingly for no reason.

I haven't read the other 150 posts, but here goes:

Charlie will pick Sen. Carlton-

He needs a candidate that "does no harm". He doesn't need any "help".

I agree that he doesn't need any "help". But I would be very surprized if he picks Carlton. I think he will just go with someone he really likes personally. That would seem to me to be someone like Kottkamp, Galvano, Haridopolis. If all the problems hadn't happened in the Senate, I really believe he would have chosen Alex Villalobos. But I think Villalobos is just too hot right now.

What Crist needs is a female candidate so the voters see a woman in proximity. That would deflect the twin (but not necessarily contradictory) accusations that he is gaay or that he was involved in a Paternity matter by signing away parental rights he may not even have had withour checking out the allegations.

Kottkamp should be LG. He does not distract from the main attraction, and he is able to be Governor.

Crist doesn't "need" anything! Would a female LG cause him to appear weak? Not everyone is as masculine as Jennings, but Dockery is pretty close. Bogdanoff is attractive enough. Carroll, empty. Goldstein, no way.

OK, seriously, Kottkamp get off the blog. you're a nice guy and you're not stupid, and you certainly wouldn't be a distraction from Crist, but what have you ever done that makes you qualified to be governor?

How about Negron?

2:09 I can assure you that 2:03 is not Kottkamp. I happen to know that he is speaking to a group today and it was not me either. So, relax. I know Rep. Kottkamp is way to busy to waste his time on this blog. I better get back to work myself.

1:48- Agree. Carlton has proven to be a smart woman who has shown time and again that she can handle relationships, not burn bridges, and she has the technical and policy ability (the budget). Can anyone beat that?

Actually, alot of people I know just don't think she is very likeable. That was Gallagher's problem.

Top Officials Hold Fake Degrees

LOS ANGELES, May 10,2004
(AP)

Assistant Secretary of Defense Charles Abell has a master's from Columbus University, a diploma mill Louisiana shut down.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


(CBS) They are safety engineers at nuclear power plants and biological weapons experts. They work at NATO headquarters, at the Pentagon and at nearly every other federal agency. And, as CBS News Correspondent Vince Gonzales reports, they're employees with degrees from phony schools.

"These degrees aren't worth the paper that they're printed on," says one insider, who asked CBS News to protect his identity.

The man worked at a so-called diploma mill where students pay a lot of money to get a degree online or through the mail for little or no work.

He says he's not surprised to know that there are people working at almost every level of government who have degrees from these types of operations.

Assistant Secretary of Defense Charles Abell has a master's from Columbus University, a diploma mill Louisiana shut down. Deputy Assistant Secretary Patricia Walker lists among her degrees, a bachelor's from Pacific Western, a diploma mill banned in Oregon and under investigation in Hawaii.

CBS News requested interviews with both officials. The Pentagon turned us down, saying, "We don't consider it an issue."

But using such a degree is a crime in some states. Alan Contreras cracks down on diploma mills for Oregon, a state that's taken the lead on this issue.

"You don't want somebody with a fake degree working in Homeland Security," says Contreras. "You don't want somebody with a fake degree teaching your children or designing your bridges."

But we found employees with diploma mill degrees at the new Transportation Security Administration, the Defense Intelligence Agency and the Departments of Treasury and Education, where Rene Drouin sits on an advisory committee. He has degrees from two diploma mills including Kensington University.

Kensington was forced out of business by officials in California and Hawaii. Another Kensington alum, Florida State Rep. Jennifer Carroll, just stepped down from the National Commission on Presidential Scholars.

And taxpayers have paid for bogus degrees some workers used for hiring, promotions and raises.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

and this has what to do with the LG pick?

2:44-we are talking about getting CC elected. No one knows who Lisa is, so it doesn't matter if people like her. She is the perfect choice to DO NO HARM.

Kottkamp-Trial Lawyer
Carroll-Degree Issues
Negron-would be ok, although his name may turn off racist voters
Haridopolous-receives salary from tax payers

That's silly, 2:44

Negron turn off racist voters? Gimme a break!

[Roaring 20's]

Ouch, 2:55.

It seems the competing camps are REALLY digging crap up. Looks like a few people are DYING to be Lt. Governor.

(I don't have a dog in this hunt, so I don't care, but the Carroll post above shows how nasty and competitive this shadown campaign for LG is getting.)

In light of the new Zogby poll out this afternoon that has CC coasting to victory (51-36; take a whiff of that, Davisites), all I can say is: Charlie, just pick someone and get it over with so we can get past all this nonsense.

Who bothered to post that/who is scared of Carroll as competition for the spot? Is she really that big of a concern? Crist people already aware of that stuff, anyway.

[Ron Mills]

Roaring 20's
there is no such zogby poll
for serious folks
check http://pollingreport.com or
http://pollsters.com

[Roaring 20's]

Ron, what, do you think I just made it up for the hell of it?

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/latestpolls/

My gosh you people... what is wrong with you? Every candidate mentioned on here is a very decent person. Not one of them has the baggage that Gallagher had. I can see if people like Lee Constantine or other wild men were being considered - but come on! These people are all class acts!

I saw Negron mentioned on here earlier. No way he gets chosen. He had a long affair with Holly Benson which would knock him out of the running.

I don't believe that, 3:37

[Roaring 20's]

Regardless, 3:37, you better have something to back that up before you start defaming the two of them on here.

(in fact, where's the blog moderator when you need him to delete something like that?)

Not every person mentioned on here is "a very decent person," but that alone doesn't warrant speculation of the worst sort, either.

I agree, but shouldn't someone check these people out? Why embarrass the Governor or turn off conservative, family voters. In the case of Crist?

3:37..PLEASE STOP. All of the candidates mentioned have strenghts and weaknesses. Any MAJOR weakness will be undoubtedly be exposed by the opposing side. However, there is no need for wild accusations. This is a political blog, not "scandel" blog.

Look, it doesn't matter what any of us think. Whoever Crist picks will be great. We will all get behind them and be supportive and help put our candidate in the mansion.

The only person I wouldn't be able to support for LG is Gallagher. He behaved very badly.

What about Ginger Wetheral. She is a major class act and everyone loves her.

Still it's dissapointing when candidates are bullied into picking someone instead of choosing on their own terms

Crist will pick the most qualified individual to lead his policy agenda and act as a liason between the EOG and the legislature. Politically, this will be a current legislator.

Prospectively, selection of staff will prove more important than this LG choice alone.

5:32 that is why George is in such a good position. I don't see him giving it up for LG

For the D side, I really like Gelber, but I don't think he will get it. I really think that Jones or Smith will get it. Smith would be an awsome pick. He is a really good guy that gets along with everyone.

Chris Smith w/ Davis

Haridopolos w/ Crist

On both the R and D sides who of the legislators had the most impressive fundraising this last time around? Choose that person and even better if too strong to be unopposed.

meant to be opposed

I really think both Davis and Crist will pick a legislator for one reason. They will need a liason to the legislators. That is a crucial role for an LG. It would be good for the LG to already have a relationship with a lot of them.

Charlie Crist will win handily unless something pops up to distract the campaign. All of the proposed GOP candidates for LG are good quality people. My concern is that Rep. Carroll "earned" her degree at a diploma mill. A major issue against the Democrats is their propensity to adhere to the gospel of the teacher unions, resulting in a dumbing down of the state. Our graduation rates are abyssmal and our test scores are equally bad. Progress is starting to be made starting with the STAR (Special Teachers are Rewarded) Program. The other LG candidates worked hard to earn their degree(s). Accepting credentials from a diploma mill is shameful and would be an instant liability to the GOP ticket. Please look in another direction Mr. Crist... you can do much better.

What does Darryl Jones do for a living?

Carroll will not be chosen.

Accepting a degree from a diploma mill and then passing of these "credentials" got a few teachers in Dade County busted last year. If Rep Carroll has legit credentials, then the bloggers owe her an apology, however, if she did earn her degree in a fraudulent fashion then she needs to withdraw from consideration.