Bense, Rubio react to Arza

House Speaker Allan Bense and his designated successor, Rep. Marco Rubio, have weighed in on Rep. Ralph Arza's resignation. Arza, a member of Rubio's inner circle, was headed for a key leadership post before his self-destruction over racist voice-mail messages.

Rubio said Arza "has served this state in an honorable and dignified manner," but that recent events "unfortunately cast a shadow on a very long and distinguished career." Rubio called Arza "a good man who deeply cares about the people of this state."

Bense's statement: "I am pleased that Rep. Ralph Arza has done what is in the best interest of his constituents and the Florida House of Representatives. I know this was not an easy decision for him, but I am glad he has put the needs of his district, the Florida Legislature and the state of Florida above his own.

"I hope that the way this issue was handled by everyone involved will serve to unite the members of the Florida House and allow them to move forward with a renewed sense of respect for the institution in which they serve as well as a deeper respect for each other and their responsibilities as elected officials."

Comments

very classy

So, Arza brought a black man to his newser. Reminds me of Steve Colbert's "black friend" schtick (which is a hoot, for anyone who has not seen it).

At the endd of the day, this was textbook crsis management. It took 8 days, but each day the House leaders turned up the pressure a little more until today they got the resignation everyone wanted. Look at the timeline:

Tue: Rubio asks him to resign
Wed: Bense asks him to resign
Thursday: Jeb asks him to resign
Monday: Goodlette asks him to resign
Wednesday: Just one hour before committee asks him to resign or face expulsion Arza resigns

All this was set in motion by Rubio's quick action on Tuesday of last week, stripping him of leadership and asking Bense to begin the process of investigation and recommendation. They didnt play games with it. they acted quickly and the result is so different from what we got in D.C.

Well Done!

ditto! Except Crist should have said something about this.

Did you hear Rubio tore up his knee last week. What a bad week!

Rubio passed his first test. I cant recall anyone facing something like this before they swear in. This is not just a member he had to strip, this is a close personal friend and ally.

1:13, you're right on except you left out the Saturday trip to Miami by Bense and Goodlette to ask him to resign -- thank goodness it's over.

[realbluedemocrat]

As we find out more and more about the true colors of republicans in the state house

Did anyone hear about Faye Culp and how she has accepted contributions during session. I thought that was illegal, the culture of corruption just continues.

Gary Siplin is not a Republican. A convicted felon, convicted of stealing state money. Has any Republican done that?

Dennis Baxley for Pro-Tem! Anyone else heard that rumor?

This entire process was done well from the GOP leadership team. It's amazing how critical the Dems can be about these things. Did they forget about Gary Siplin, Mandy Dawson etc?

How does this situation constitute a "test" for Rubio??

The word "test" implies that Rubio had two or more viable choices and selected the right one. In this case, the choices were:

a) Defend Arza are jeopardize your own career

b) Ask Arza to resign and save your career

Hmmm....let's see...I choose b

GOOD RIDDANCE!

A test because he could have failed to act quickly and allowed this ting to fester and become a partisan liability.
A test he passed!

1:23, Faye Culp did not know it is illegal to accept contributions during session. She also doesn't know where her parking space is.

alright dems, here's the deal: you give us a pass on stupid things culp does and we'll give you a pass on stupid things larcenia bullard does. deal?

fine by me if you want to trash larcenia. safe democratic seat, so have all the fun you want!

rubio acted quickly? pleeeze.

[The Truth]

I hope the Dems relished thier 5 minutes of power. They thought Arza was going to stay in and they were going to hold the House hostage.

They have nothing. no message, no nothing. All they can do is react to Republican missteps. Which are going to happen from time to time because people are human and humans make mistakes.

I feel bad for Dan Gelber. He is a true leader and a genuinely dedicated public servant.

The end of Arza's speech was very poignant. Essentailly, becareful who you talk to in Tallahassee, don't trust you own shadow.

I know Arza and this is what he meant:

Men are men. And what is spoken among men is supposed to stay among men, whether it be in jest or in business. Becareful in Tallahassee, because what has won out is a bunch of pansies and gossipers who don't the courage to get what they want in a up front manor, they tatty tale like their wives do while getting their nails done.

As a republican from Hialeah I really sorry to see rep Arza go.He was a hard worker who ,with Gov Bush,stood up for our GOP princiles during the Villalobos campaign.A real loss for the party.He represented what we in Hialeah are all about.

Write in Tom Gallagher for Governor.

Racist thugs?

2:40 - you should be congratulated for writing that with a straight face - although I have a strong feeling you were TOTALLY COMPLETELY KIDDING

2:42 I agree. This state is going to bite a big one with either of these two guys in office. Plus, I still cant find a job. Everybody lets write in TG for Governor.

Malarie

Not racist thugs. Real men. Who are unafraid to push through a wall to see what is right get accomplished.

Ralph Arza is not a racist. I would not be surprised if he sued Gus Barriero for slander, libel, and defamation of character, and all that other junk.

2:42 and 2:44 - You hit the nail on the coffin with what occured in the debate two days ago I think we can build on the momentum and get TG elected. All we need to do is build a grassroots effort. Troops with only 6 days left it is not too late. Lets write TG in for Governor.

- Big Dos

2:44 It's spelled Malorie. I bet you type of guy that 2:38 described.

Arza took his training at the eveglades Alpha 66 camp.As a youngster was taught all those strong GOP principals that made the cuban dictator Bastista our role model.Bully these blacks and gay liberals,lie cheat,and use force and intimidation .We tried it with Jebs help vs Villalobos .Just did something real stupid.We got caught on tape. Maccaca.

Who is Tom Gallagher? Did he used to be in politics?

2:50 - Somebody is a bit testy. But actually my name is Malarie - Thanks though.

[Gallagher Campaign Team]

Big Dos,

The team is reading, willing, and able. You putting together the best campaign team in Florida history. We're all here and we got something to prove. Let's get it done.

Sincerely,

Gallagher Campaign Team

Tom Gallagher is a man, a myth and a Legand. He is exactly what this state needs. However, we before we do he needs to throw away ihs bs "im a social conservative act" not hire back his campaign staff and lose Stembugers. Then we will have a great Governor. The man is the right man for the job he was just guided by the wrong people. Write in TG for Governor

[The Truth]

Write in Tom Gallagher for Governor.

Do it now.

I think Malarie is hot!

[Sandra]

** NEWS NOT REPORTED IN SPTIMES **

PBS/WEDU-TAMPA DECISION 2006 FEDERAL CONGRESSIONAL DEBATE IS TONIGHT, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2006 AT 9:00PM

CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS!

ALSO, CHECK OUT A REBUTTAL TO ST. PETERSBURG TIMES HERE: http://www.sammsimpsonforcongress.com/main/news

[terminator]

The million dollar question is who will replace Arza?
Everyone thinks it will be Frank Bolanos who would be a fine choice and would fit "right" in with the house.
After all it was Arza, Rivera, DLP and Pruitt who tried to get rid of Demolobos by bankrolling Bolanos aborted state senate campaign.
Could this be payback for Bolanos agreeing to run against Alex V. and abandoning his school board seat?

Gallagher Campaign Team - Not this time. this time I want the real TG. Not the phony one that was a drone and couldnt stay on his bs message.We are throwing away the Jeb playbook from 98 and the GW playbook from 04. this time TG is going to be who he really is and take Fl in the direction. He is a middle of the road Republican that knows how to handle FL in our worst time...Hurricanes. Heis the only person who understands insurance and we will put that out there. This is a new era. Write in TG for Governor with a new TG camp.

TG's new campaign manager

Big Dos

Big Dos-

I am willing to serve. Sign me up. I got nothing better to do.

-Malarie

2:58 -Thanks

TG wite in campaign - Lets spread the word.

Big Dos,

I agree. Will the real Tom Gallagher please stand up? Lets save this party from mediocrity and a one termer. Lets get the old squad back to together, the most loyal and dedicated campaign team ever assembled and come out guns blazing.

somebody get tom out of the hot tub and into this race!

3:07 - Now we are talking. Its now or never and CC is not the answer. However, I am not for bringing the old squad back. Im the new campaign manager..Big Dos. The old staff sucked. this staff will be fresh and will be fun. We wont raise any money and I know that and wont lie. However, if we spread the word we might be able to get some votes and send a message. Write in TG if he is willing to be his old arrogant, non social conservative self. The man who is Right for this state.

TG -dont file for Social security yet. Come back. Ill write you in.

I have always hated CC and Davis. Crap, TG is better than these two idiots. You got my write in vote.

Im in somebody count my vote. TG write in campaign begins.

Adam, Joni, and Steve -Come on, you all agree with us. Yall loved TG before he was told to became "Moses". Hook us up and call TG and just see what he thinks about the possibility of running a last 6 day write in campaign. It will at least give you something interesting to write about.

[The Truth]

In all seriousness, the Gallagher campaign team was a very dedicated and loyal lot. Say what you will of Doster, Miller, or Martinez due to whether personal squabble, but from the top to the bottom they were hard workers and believed in their cause.

True loyalty does not come around very often. On this blog everyday people lied about staff leaving and deserting the campaign. That wasn't true.

They had a badass crew over there.

I agree. You guys sucked at following up on CC relationship with Foley. So do us a favor and give TG a ring and see what he says. It will at least be "Buzz" worthy.

The Truth - They were smart and talented but let their own ambitions got in the way. Every campaign has jerks that is just part of the biz. However, they were doing it for the wrong reasons and you can tell. TG is a great guy and has alot to offer. I just wish more of Florida would have seen that instead of the "Jesus Freak" he was turned into by his staff. If TG is willing to come back as his normal self I will cast a vote his way.

TG = The Governor - I am seriously writing TG in. I hope yall will too after witnessing the crap that CC and Davis are spilling.

[moderate]

little Diaz dela Portilla just won the Schoolboard race for this same district.

But I don't think the local party would name him.

[Pat]

That does it...I'm putting my TG bumper sticker back on my truck!

[The Truth]

3:25 You have it all wrong about the staff.

The were the best I've seen. They gave their heart and soul even while they knew it was impossible.

Had Charlie had Gallagher's campaign team, there would be no talk of Jim Davis coming from behind because Charlie would be ahead by a SOLID 8 points.

That is the truth.

Moderate- Get real. This is now about getting TG back into the campaign. Everybody realizes they chose the wrong guy. So join us in the discussion about TG's write in campaign. No one cares about a state house race. No one really even knew who Arza was unless you are in the bubble. If we dont get TG back in the race our state is going to be handed over to two idiots.

Truth -Are you kidding the TG camp blew a favorable lead. Nobody even thought CC had a chance against TG. However this campaign did not smell the political winds and realize no one wants a "Jesus Freak." The TG camp blew it and they know that. Had they let TG be TG he would be Governor hands down. He is the best man for the job. Even Jeb knows that. Write in TG and it wont matter any more. What is done is done. they lost and that is the fact. Just write TG in on Nov 7th

Tom Gallagher may not have watched the Davis/Crist/Mathews/Mad Dog debate. But if he did, I wish that I could watch him shake his head and comment on the theatre of the absurd. Sooner or later someone was going to nail Charlie. And it wasn't even Jim Davis. It was Mathews and Mad Dog. Wish I could have heard what Mac said to Brian after the debate. Crist's comments about himself scored the most points for Davis.

[The Truth]

3:37 Get out of Tallahassee for a second. I'm talking about the team as a whole was outstanding. Put them all together, field staffers included, and they were the best.

I went to event is three separate counties for TG and they were outstanding. Advance, follow up, out reach, grassroots.

Great bunch of folks. Alright I'm done, they were great but they lost. Nobody knows who the hell they are, next.

If Gallagher watched he was pissed. Mathews would not have shaken the "Real " him. The man knows everyhting and has a plan. He doesnt refer people to his website or say who supports him. He give answers. The "Moses" him would have been rattled.He would have got smaked around by Mathews. Lets spread the word to your friends and write TG in.

Truth - Ok im in Southern GA now. Im listening. I will admit parts of what their Field staff were good. It wasnt their fault. I imagine that campaign was probably out of their control. They were more like drones. However, I heard their O town field staffer was hott. Their Miami FD's didnt speak spanish and didnt one of them get arrested? Their Tampa FD had big ears and was having an affair with someone on the team. However, I read that on the blogs. So I dont know the truth. But anyways, just write in TG and it doesnt matter who they were. TG write in campaign is all that matters. Lets do it.

Charlie Crist will be our next Governor. Most dont understand that this debate was not for the decided Ds and Rs partisans, that post on this blog, it was for the undecided I's and crossovers that saw a clear and friendly leader and communicator in Crist and saw a complainer and as one respondent put it "whiner without his own ideas" in Davis who kept following charlie's lead and started ever statement with "and Charlie Crist". The independent feedback from the non political partisans was that they liked Crist. Now those people dont post on blogs and are not usally contacted by the media so you dont get their feedback. For those that track these post debate responses that talk to a cross section as I do it was very suprising that those that fall into the undecided or Independent block so strongly favored Crist post the debate. Many i'm sure will Spin a away, and of these folks likely will be responding purely on partisan emotion, but from my analyses, Crist will maintain or open his lead and will win.

Truth and 3:51 - I know nothing about the TG camp other than I was rold all the men on the campaign had smokin hott GFs or wives. If that is the case and maybe you know and can give me more insight, then I will write TG in. I am all for more pretty women in politics.

We need TOM Now..If he released the tapes he got during the election proving Crist is Gay ill Vote for him

[moderate]

3:34

Anyone who has read this blog at all in the past year knows I think Tom Gallagher is the biggest frickin' jerk off I have ever met in politics. (This includes local politics with which I am now more involved)

He is a scum bag!

His service has never been for the public, it has always been for personal gain. He is an arrogant prick, who talks down to everyone he meets.

If any of you want to write in a candidate it should be Rod Smith.

3:54 or may I call you George Lemiux - It is kind of sad that you are stuck posting on the blog and not with your candidate. Have you guys really fallen that far behind? Man desperation mode has kicked in. Are you guys going to hire Mike Murphy now too? TG for Governor -Write him in.

Grab some pecans on the way back.

The O Town FD was attractive but was not hot;there's a difference. Young kid, inexperienced.

The Miami FD did in fact speak spanish. Good kid, bright future.

Tampa Fd normal ears, hard worker, had Fasano controversy.

None arrested.

Moderate- Man if we can get that TG back it will be alot better than CC or Davis. I want an arrogant, self involved prick because that is usually the formula for a great candidate. You obviously are new to this game and have not been around many of these men and women. Write TG in on Election day.

Moderate = Mac Stiponowitch (Spelling on purpose)

HAHAHAHAHAHA

4:01- Are you sure the miami fd didnt get arrested. I read on one of these blogs that he got introuble for grafitti and had a gun pulled on him by a cop. Then I read that he broke a water pipe outside his office and caused a flood.

Thats dangerous being associated with Fassano. Was it sexual?

Good heads up on the FD in O -town. Someone told me she looked like the Carrie Underwood.

Good wrok man and remember to write TG in on election day.

"Dennis Baxley for pro tem" ??? More like Dennis Baxley for PRO ZAC

Write in TG now!!!!

If that is what Hialeah is all about, I say, suceed from the state.

No campaign staffer was arrested in either campaign.

All of TG staffers in the field were professionals who were dedicated and loyal.

[moderate]

4:01

Sometimes I wish I was new to the process. That way, I wouldn't know what I know, and it wouldn't disturb me so much that some of these people are guiding our collective policies.

I've known about TG since his early 80s days in the Grove.

I do agree with you that an ego is necessary to succeed in this game.

But character matters in my book.

People make mistakes, and that's all fine and dandy.

But what TG does aren't mistakes. they are planned and calculated screw jobs.

No Baxley,Stembugers, Doster, Miller, or any other person from that campaign. Except Travesia because he is the real deal and mark my words will be Governor someday, Just TG and if you want Rod Smith and his horible rap song can be his LG (Trust me Rod Smith is more of a Republican than CC) Write in TG.

Im' seriously writing in Mickey Mouse for gov. He's a Floridian and I like him the best.

Moderate - Your right about one things he does plan and calculate his "screw jobs"...Mercedes..Tahiti.. but thats what I like most about him. He is real and knows his stuff. May be arrogant and selfish but he is the right man for the job. Plus he would have a hott staff.

He would indeed have a hott staff good golly.

Men who dislike arrogent men lack self confidense and the abiltiy to exert their will on those type of individuals. Essentially they are cowards.

You guys are full of it about Gallagher, his team sucked, they pushed him to become something he's not and that’s why he lost. After the election Tom went and delivered a personal check made out to Charlie Crist, which was classy. Brett really pulled him down. If you use your vote for Tom Gallagher it will be an absolute waste and Tom would tell you that as well. I bet Tom Gallagher would say vote for Charlie he is the party's nomination and will be a good leader for the state of Florida.
Tom missed his chance and now you want to let Davis run the state?
Do you want somebody who did nothing in Washington for tens?
Charlie Crist has worked for Floridian’s at ever point possible.

[The Truth]

And with that the Tom Gallagher Write In Campaign died and quick and appropriate death.

Write in vote ='s a no vote

Tom is going to vote for Charlie Crist.

4:22 or George- Didnt someone already calll you out for being on the blog? Go back with your candidate and get off the blog. Write in TG -it is our last hope

[moderate]

4:21

Whatever you say Nancy.

I'm sure you're running around imposing your will on everyone.

4:25 -TG is not going to vote for CC I can guarentee that. He thinks soo little of that man. He knows he is full of it. Write in TG onelection day.

The CC camp and their interns have obviously begun reading the blogs. I cant wait for Davis interns to jump on as well. Write in TG for Gov.

[Tim Gomez]

Did someone just call someone else a coward, by posting it anonymously? That's mighty "tuff guy" of you.
The phrase "Mangina" comes to mind.
How the hell did this thread get highjacked so far off course?
I guess it's just all the ex-Gallagher staffers who didn't get picked up by the Crist Campaign.

4:27 I imposed my will on you indirectly by making you respond to my comment, the goal of which was to make someone respond. So thanks for proving my point and highlighting my superior intellect.

Becareful now, that's arrogance, go hide in a closet or something.

[The Truth]

Yes let get back to Arza and the District replacement.

Robert Fernandez and Eric Padron are being spoken about. They ran to replace Barriero. Any thoughts?

4:22
Tom would be telling everybody he knows to vote for Charlie Crist and he would be telling everybody to pass the word on to get out and vote.

Gallagher isn't dumb he knows all these lies would come up right before the election.

Dont listen to the CC interns or anyone else from the CC camp on this blog. Just remember what a fool he is making and how regretful our votes for him are. I am writing in TG for Gov I hope everyone will join me and and the others who have comitted too.

Dennis, Stop promoting yourself.

[GOP Junkie]

4:11- the word is secede, not suceed.
4:09- ROFLMAO!!!!

I also heard the rumor about Bolanos. Considering the players involved, that is the logical assumption.

Truth - As it was stated before: No one cares about a state house race. I bet no one even knows who there state reps are. I know you are being payed by the CC camp or getting college credits but dont drink the juice. Join the write in campaign for TG.

No way Gallagher votes for "Gayng Bang Charlie". Tom might not be a man of very many moral values but he knows that CC is wrong for the job.

Jim Defede heard from anonymous sources that one of Arza's current aide's will be chosen as his replacement.......

Anybody know them?

One of his Aides was a Gallagher FD. But who really cares about this. the important tthing is Governor and we all need to write TG in

[Tim Gomez]

Once again the mighty 4:32 tells someone to go hide in a closet while hiding behind the anonymity of the blogs.

Grow a sack.

As my sack grows, so are the days of our lives.

4:32

One of Arza's aides worked for Gallagher the other worked for Bolanos during his Senate race.

Neither will be chosen.

4:39
Learn to spell and then come back and remember it's 2 pickles a shot of ketchup and a little squeeze of mustard.

Davis hack

4:53
I would say thats him

5:08 -Not a Davis hack. But is that the formula Charlie and his pal Mark Foley used to pick up dates? Get back to work and off this blog..I am sure Vivian, Erin, or George has some photo copies for you to make.

Adam, Joni, Steve - I am eagerly waiting for yall to call TG and give us his response. See if he will do it. The man has to be tired of taking it off the chin for the Repubs year after year. Maybe he will "grow a sack", as others on this blog have told people to do, and go for it

5:04pm

Sources say they are just several of the names being considered

The crap on this blog shows why we are in the state we are in. We are doomed.
What insider idiots.

5:20 -No one cares about Arza and the person who is going to replace him. I dont even know why the Buzz even bothers writing about local officials. No one cares. If they did voter turnout would be huge. But if by chance you do go to the polls and vote for Arza's replacement make sure you write TG's name in for Gov.

I agree. This is all crap. Liers, cheaters, thieves, and fools.

Arza and TG are close friends, one of Arza's aides was a TG FD

Trey for Governor? Yeah right, the same people he pissed off and took him down in the Speaker's race will be right there waiting to put another nail in his political coffin.

[Roderick G]

Go here and listen to the "New Times Outs Crist" audio link from South Florida's Newstalk 940 AM this morning. It's a 50,000 watt station, reaches Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Melborne, Vero Beach, Naples, Ft. Myers, etc.

http://www.am940southflorida.com/cc-common/podcast.html

The Baxley rumor is not a rumor. He will be the Speaker Pro-Tem. It's a done deal and has been for a few months.

Hi! This is Tom Gallagher. There are a lot of comments about writing my name in for Governor, but I want to ask all of you to please vote for Charlie. He waxed me fair and square, even though it wasn't fair because he had Mac Stipanovich and I had a campaign staff stuck in the Old Testament.

Mac does have a knack for helping get 1 term govs elected

Mac's jerk, even he knows it!!!