With four freshmen in the House and one new senator moving up from the lower chamber, the Space Coast has proportionately more rookies than any other region of the state. But they are all Republicans -- always a plus in the GOP-dominated process -- and they are joining well-positioned senior members.

"Sometimes, it's good not to 'know everything' -- to come in with fresh ideas instead of being set in your ways," Rep. Debbie Mayfield, R-Vero Beach, said with a smile during an orientation session last week. "I think we can be very effective if we work together and do our homework."

She has some political background, succeeding her husband, the late Rep. Stan Mayfield. She said six-year Rep. Ralph Poppell, R-Titusville, will be a valuable mentor for the four freshmen in Brevard's House delegation -- a sentiment shared by Reps. Steve Crisafulli of Merritt Island, John Tobia of Satellite Beach and Ritch Workman of Melbourne.

One is a veteran state and municipal lawmaker who worked at the Kennedy Space Center during the Apollo era. The other is a first-time politician with a background in law, the military and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

But both will be stepping into offices on the side of the aisle where they will have to work with and act as a check-and-balance to the majority party.

Republicans Bill Posey, 61, of Rockledge and Tom Rooney, 37, of Tequesta are to be the new faces of the Treasure Coast in Congress.

Posey's district covers all of Indian River County. Rooney's district has the bulk of the populated portions of Martin and St. Lucie counties.

With the Republican Governors Association meeting in Miami today, the potential future faces of the GOP, from Crist to Alaska's Sarah Palin, will be on hand weighing how to regain Republican footing in an era of Barack Obama's presidency.

The host of the Republican Governors' Association event is Florida's Charlie Crist, a big believer in the "big tent" theory who calls his way of governing "a model for the country."

But Crist will have to share the stage with Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who was wildly popular with the conservative base of the GOP that remains a little wary of Crist.

"I think there's room for both Charlie Crist and Sarah Palin," said Brian Ballard, a lobbyist and fundraiser for Crist and John McCain. "If we don't embrace both, we're in trouble."

Do not adjust your set: Florida is just as red as ever in Tallahassee, where vital decisions are made on taxes, spending and the shape of 160 legislative and 25 (soon to be 26) congressional districts.

So even as Florida Democrats toasted Obama's historic victory, they were flogging themselves over a missed opportunity that may not come their way again — and rightfully so. They had a chance to make much-needed gains in the Legislature, and they didn't, and that has consequences for the party and the state.

Republicans control the Senate, 26-14, and the House, 76-44, with two Democratic House seats possibly headed for machine recounts.

Republican Steve Crisafulli of Merritt Island defeated Sasso, 52.2 percent to 47.8 percent, in a district that includes parts of southeast Orange County and the northern part of Brevard County, including NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

Sasso blamed his loss in part on Republican presidential candidate John McCain's strong showing in Brevard and on Crisafulli's more than $193,000 lead in campaign contributions.

“After two years of meritless investigations and millions of tax dollars squandered, the voters of Florida’s Thirteenth Congressional District again rejected Christine Jennings and again chose Vern Buchanan to represent their interests in our nation’s capital.

“Vern is a self-made businessman and a respected leader in Florida’s business community. As a member of Florida’s Congressional Delegation, he has emphasized common sense and constituent services. I am confident that during his second term, Vern will continue to emphasize issues that are critically important to his constituents such as establishing a federal reinsurance catastrophic fund to increase access to affordable property insurance.

“The people have spoken and they trust Vern to get the job done.”

“Tom Rooney will serve the people of Florida with honor and dignity. As a former member of the United States Army, instructor at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and servant to underprivileged and abandoned children in his community, Tom understands the call to public service and what it means to serve a cause greater than self. He will be an outstanding member of the United States Congress. We are proud of Tom’s grassroots support and ready for him to serve as a strong, principled voice for Florida in Washington, D.C.”

“I congratulate Steve Crisafulli on his victory tonight. This is a Republican district, and the voters of HD-32 will again have a Republican leader to serve as their voice and represent their values in Florida’s House of Representatives. We have said that the Democrats’ time in this seat was limited, and tonight, it is over.”

“It is my honor to congratulate Bill Posey tonight on his victory. Posey served with great distinction in the Florida State Senate, he has the leadership and the experience necessary to best represent the interests of the 15th Congressional District and the State of Florida in the United States Congress.”

“Lincoln Diaz-Balart is a true servant of the people and I congratulate him on this reelection victory tonight. The people of CD 25 have spoken, and they have denounced the inappropriate tactics and ridiculous behavior of Raul Martinez, while embracing Lincoln’s service and dedication. During his time in Congress, Lincoln has fought for tax relief, education reform, transportation funding, and protection of Florida’s Everglades. I am confident that he will continue to champion these important issues during the next two years.”

“I congratulate Senator Jeff Atwater on his victory in the SD-25 Senate Race. His victory tonight will enable Senator Atwater to continue to serve the people of Broward and Palm Beach Counties as their State Senator, and the entire state of Florida as President of the Florida Senate.

“I am confident that Senator Atwater will continue his work to revive our economy and lower crippling property insurance rates while protecting the quality of life that makes Florida such a treasure for those who life here and visitors alike. I appreciate Senator Atwater’s dedication and commitment to the people of our great state and look forward to working with him to continue to build and grow our party.”

“It’s no surprise to see Christine Jennings campaigning with Senator Barack Obama, advocating redistributing the hard-earned dollars of American taxpayers.Raising taxes doesn’t affect people like Christine Jennings who deliberately decide not to pay their taxes.”

“For Christine Jennings, an increase in tax revenue means she has even more to spend on taxpayer- funded recounts and investigations when she again loses her election bid next Tuesday.”

The office is exactly the way you would picture it if you had never set foot inside. There's a life-size cardboard cutout of John McCain; the cutout is wearing a Jim Greer shirt. There are pictures of Greer shaking hands with President Bush. There are plaques that commemorate minority outreach.

But there are a couple things you wouldn't imagine. There's a picture of Greer on a flight from Miami, holding his baby son Austin (now 2 years old) in his lap as he concentrates on a Blackberry in his hand. The caption simply reads "The Chairman multitasking."

There's a campaign poster for Student Council done by his 12-year-old daughter Amber. Her campaign slogan: "less homework, more recess." There's a framed newspaper clipping from the Chronicle back when Greer was on the Oviedo City Council; it's signed, "We're proud of our dad."

The room is indicative of at least one quality of the father-of-four chairman. He might spend the majority of his time in Tallahassee working on expanding the Republican Party in Florida and getting Republicans elected, but he comes home to Oviedo. And he comes home to one big family.

“Tim Mahoney has proven time and time again that he doesn’t deserve the privilege of representing the people of CD-16,” said RPOF Chairman Jim Greer. “What's more, after refusing to face both Tom Rooney and his constituents in last week’s debate, Congressman Mahoney instead released a campaign commercial full lies.”

Tim Mahoney Rhetoric #1: "Tom Rooney wants to send our Social Security to Wall Street."

Tom Rooney Reality: Tom Rooney has never said he supports private accounts. Rooney has simply stated the need for new solutions to improve social security and to ensure beneficiaries receive benefits they deserve. “Once I get to Washington I will work to ensure our seniors receive the benefits they deserve. I will fight to protect the contracts our government has made with our seniors. And I will fight to protect the Social Security Trust Fund.”(Charlotte Sun Herald, 10/11/08)

“Jon Ausman’s political stunt today, while typical, is as deceptive as his claims are false. Florida's voters have unprecedented access to convenient ways to cast their vote, including 15 days to cast their vote in person and several weeks during which they may vote absentee in the comfort of their own homes. How is this suppressing the vote?

“Florida’s Supervisors of Elections were required to submit their Early Vote locations by October 5th. The law is plain and simple. Voters should question why Ausman is raising this question now, with just seven days until Election Day, instead of weighing in prior to the deadline.

"Today, less than ten days before Election Day, Governor Crist was listed on Mark Halperin's "The Five Most Important People in American Politics Not Running for President," illustrating once again the key role that Florida's Governor continues to play on the national stage. Governor Crist's constant high approval ratings among Floridians of all backgrounds, sustained by his common-sense approach to governing our state through even the toughest times, illustrates that here at home, Florida voters are confident of a bright future under his leadership. This leadership was evident when Governor Crist pushed John McCain over the finish line during our state's make-or-break primary. Voters in Florida and across the nation seek and deserve this type of leadership, and they have found it in Charlie Crist."

McCain is "all about reaching out and bringing people in with him," Lieberman told an audience of about 40 at a meeting this afternoon with University of South Florida Hillel, a Jewish student organization.

Lieberman, an Independent and a former Democrat from Connecticut, told the crowd at the Alfano Conference Center that McCain, R-Ariz., has more experience and is better prepared to be president than Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill.

With the economic crisis and the ongoing war on terrorism, the nation is at a critical juncture, Lieberman said.

"So who we chose for our next president really matters," he said. "That's why I'm here."

McCain was "ready to be commander-in-chief since day one" and "puts country over party," Lieberman said.

“By and large, County Supervisors of Elections are doing their jobs and working to ensure the utmost integrity to our elections process,” noted Chairman Greer. “Some Supervisors, however, are inappropriately taking matters into their own hands and implementing indiscriminate procedures that may ultimately threaten the legitimacy and very results of this critical election.”

Questions have arisen regarding provisional ballots and the simple requirements voters must verify in order to vote.

“Quite simply, if a person has not provided the necessary evidence before arriving to vote, that voter will cast a provisional ballot,” said Chairman Greer. “The law is clear here, identification must be verified prior to a voter entering a polling location on Election Day. Why? Because every single Florida voter deserves to rest assured that the voter casting a ballot in the next booth over is really casting a legal, legitimate vote and not cancelling out our own legal, legitimate votes.”

“Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) said Democrats will push for a stimulus package after the November election, and called for a package reducing defense spending by 25 percent while saying Congress will ‘eventually’ raise taxes.

Frank told the editorial board of the SouthCoast Standard-Times that he wanted to reduce defense spending by a quarter, meaning the United States would have to withdraw from Iraq sooner.”

“‘We’ll have to raise taxes ultimately,’ Frank said. ‘Not now, but eventually.’ Frank told the Standard-Times that if Democrats cannot secure the votes they need in November, they will try again in January, when they will likely have stronger majorities in the House and Senate.” (The Hill, 10/24/08)

And in a move to try to shore up support for this radical agenda, Barney Frank has made a down payment on Kosmas' vote by contributing to her campaign from his own fundraising account.

“Despite a pending FBI Investigation, Congressman Tim Mahoney has repeatedly denied his constituents the opportunity to learn the truth about his abuse of power as an elected official to secure a job for his mistress as well as his attempts to secure millions of dollars in funding based on his relationship with another mistress. Now, he refuses to let the people of CD-16 hear his views on the issues as well.

“It’s time voters know the truth about Mahoney’s political corruption and the truth about his voting record. Mahoney voted in favor of the biggest tax increase in history, against making the ‘01 and ‘03 tax cuts permanent, and for a bill to spend millions of tax payer dollars for private library and office for Charlie Rangel, who later helped Mahoney fund his re-election campaign.

Last week, following a series of reports on The Blotter, Mahoney confirmed that he had hired one of his mistresses for his Congressional staff and that he was also carrying on an affair with a Florida county official who sought his help with a federal grant.

But a document obtained by ABC News reveals new allegations of threatening behavior and sexual harassment toward a female staffer, that go far beyond Mahoney's public confession, including claims that he urged one of his mistresses to serve as a "tease" for big donors.

The former Congressional staff member, Patricia Allen, was paid $121,000 by Mahoney after she was fired and threatened to sue.

Washington- Joe Garcia is already mastering the art of misleading voters on his position on the issues most critical to our national and economic security. Despite his claims that he supports the Colombia Free Trade Agreement, he was happy to host Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who was solely responsible for killing this agreement in Congress this year:

“Democrat Joe Garcia said. ‘I will work tirelessly with both Republicans and Democrats to ensure that the Colombian free trade agreement is passed. It is time to end the partisan Washington bickering and unequivocally support one of America's greatest allies in this hemisphere.’” (Miami Herald, 7/23/08)

Garcia even claims to support the Colombia Free Trade Agreement on his campaign website:

“Joe Garcia believes that a fair and thriving free market should be the center-piece for democracies in the region. This begins by approving the Colombia Free Trade Agreement.”

But apparently Garcia was willing to throw his “unequivocal support” to the way side in order to bank some campaign cash from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who killed the Colombia agreement just months ago

“As mayor, Raul Martinez spent more time fighting in street brawls and defending himself against charges of racketeering and extortion than he did representing the people of Hialeah,” said RPOF Communications Director Erin VanSickle. “Given his record, it’s no surprise that he is eager to get to Washington where he would be surrounded Democrat peers who share not only his distorted vision of public policy, but also his disdain for following the rule of law.”

I recently stepped down as commander in chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, America's largest organization of combat veterans.

Recently, 20 past national commanders of the VFW and the American Legion, America's largest veterans' organization, joined me in supporting John McCain for president. You should, too.

My 37-year tenure at the VFW made me keenly aware of the challenges faced by veterans of all conflicts, and provided me the honor of fighting for veterans' rights and benefits on Capitol Hill.

In the process, it gave me a unique insight into members of Congress' commitment to America's veterans.

“Congratulations Governor Crist on being named the most fiscally conservative governor in the United States.” said Chairman Greer. “Once again, Governor Crist has demonstrated that when you put the people first and partisan politics aside, great things can be accomplished. Less taxing, less government and less spending is what the people want.”

The Cato Institute ranked Governor Crist the most fiscally conservative governor in the United States. The Governor was one of three state executives to earn an A rating, and scored more than 15 points higher than the next Governor in the A category.

"Uncertain Times Require McCain's Tested Vigilance"

Editorial

Tampa Tribune

October 17, 2008

The direction of the nation is at stake in this election.

Hard economic times, a disappointing Republican administration and the seductive promises of a master orator are pushing America toward a European-style social democracy.

Advertisement

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) -- Republican presidential nominee John McCain is visiting Florida.

McCain will be holding a rally at Florida International University in Miami and then at Brevard Community College in Melbourne later Friday.

Meanwhile, Florida's Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink will meet with business owners and employees in Tallahassee and in Tampa to discuss Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's small business rescue plan.

Early voting in Florida begins on Monday.

The official says federal agents also are examining whether a second affair Mahoney was having with a high-level official in his Florida district was behind his push for federal funds for her county.

The official spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the investigation.

The FBI is investigating whether Mahoney put his first mistress on the federal payroll so she wouldn't reveal their affair. The official says the other issue is whether Mahoney benefited sexually in return for spending or securing federal money.

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Associated Press writer Lara Jakes Jordan contributed from Washington.

"The last chapter of Tim Mahoney's political career has been written, and it is titled 'Violation of the public trust.' Now, it is time to close the book on Congressman Mahoney and restore the public's trust.

"Today, I call upon Tim Mahoney to resign his office as a U.S. Congressman and allow the citizens of CD 16 the opportunity to have their faith and trust restored in this public office."

“This tour will provide me the opportunity to review campaign activities, thank our local Republican leaders and volunteers and to determine any specific needs the state party can provide in the remaining weeks of the campaign,” said Chairman Greer.

The card had her age and middle initial wrong and a different Social Security and driver's license number. The only things correct were her gender and party affiliation.

After making a few calls, Athan discovered she had two voter registrations on the books at the Hillsborough County elections office. One had her place of residence listed as her West Shore Boulevard home; the other her Kennedy Boulevard office.

"I thought to myself, 'What's going on here?'" Athan said. "How could this happen?"

Hillsborough County Elections Supervisor Buddy Johnson said the discrepancy is likely a case of voter registration fraud by a third party group that pays people to register voters.

"Someone from one of these groups probably saw her name and address in a phone book or elsewhere and registered it, thinking they could get away with it," he said.

“The right to bear arms is a right provided by the Constitution as a means for Americans to protect themselves, their families and their property,” stated Bunting. “Senator Obama has sought to diminish and even remove the Second Amendment rights of law abiding citizens and has gone so far as to say that he doesn’t believe people should own guns. This right is exceedingly important to Floridians, especially the significant number of Sportsmen and Women who live here or visit to enjoy the Sunshine State’s outdoors. Senator Obama’s dismal Second Amendment rights record does not resonate with our voters.”

“The Florida Democrat Party’s bogus press conference today was nothing more than a cheap stunt aimed at diverting attention from Raul Martinez’ abysmal criminal record, including indictments on eight counts of racketeering and seven counts of extortion.

Raul Martinez is hardly in a position to accuse another candidate of impropriety in accepting campaign contributions. He has been accused of obtaining money, property or financial benefits by helping — or threatening to hurt— many of the people he seeks to represent.

Raul Martinez dishonored the people of Hialeah as their mayor, and he certainly doesn’t deserve the privilege of representing them in our nation’s capital. The Florida Democrat Party should think twice before stooping to Raul Martinez’ lows.

"We applaud Senator Obama's Florida campaign for educating Florida voters about their rights, but there is much more to be done," noted RPOF Communications Director Erin VanSickle. "This is especially true with groups like ACORN, the Brennan Center, Common Cause, and the Advancement Project spreading misinformation and confusion about the voter verification law.

According to an email from Steve Schale, the Florida State Director for Obama for America, "We put together a website gathering some of the most common rumors. Visit the site to make sure you know your rights."

So with less than a month until Election Day, Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin came to Jacksonville's riverfront Tuesday to rally the GOP faithful.

She didn't disappoint her fans.

Thousands of people jammed a downtown shopping and restaurant complex to hear the Alaska governor tout the leadership of Republican presidential nominee John McCain and cast Democrat Barack Obama as a big-government liberal.

Palin hit on red-meat issues for many GOP voters -- holding down taxes, supporting the military and saying the McCain administration would impose a freeze on federal spending, among other things.

She also tried to contrast Obama and McCain, just hours before they were scheduled to hold their second televised debate of the campaign.

"You will see a politician who puts his faith in government and a leader who puts his faith in you," Palin said.

In an increasingly frequent theme of the McCain campaign, Palin also criticized Obama for his past relationship with William Ayers, a founder of the Weathermen, a radical Vietnam-era group.

She said Obama "launched his political career" in the living room of a "domestic terrorist," referring to a gathering Ayers hosted in the 1990s when Obama was preparing to run for the Illinois Senate.

The line of Sarah Palin fans on Tuesday stretched through downtown neighborhoods like an Alaskan pipeline.

Nearly 10,000 people, many carrying umbrellas buffeted by unrelenting rain and wind, stood patiently for as long as seven hours as they waited to enter the Pensacola Civic Center to see Republican Sen. John McCain's running mate.

"I'm already soaked head to toe,'' said Larry Parker, 42, of Fort Walton Beach. "I don't know, honestly, if I'd do this if it was McCain. I'm a big Sarah Palin fan. She's the true conservative.''

The Alaska governor ended a two-day Florida campaign swing in Pensacola, speaking before an energized crowd happily caught up in Palin fervor.

Some wore T-shirts emblazoned with "Sarah-Cuda." Others held homemade signs proclaiming their allegiance: "Southern Belles For Palin,'' "Sarah Is Our Future.'' "Read My Lipstick.''

She intends to work with outgoing Tax Collector Charles Sembler on the two-month transition that will include a review of every position in the office.

"I will assess the functions and the job descriptions of every individual and eliminate positions that fail to serve you, the taxpayer, starting with the deputy director, deputy tax collector and any other position that we see needs to be eliminated," she said.

Because the opening was created before the general election, state law dictates the county party name a replacement, with no other government official or committee needed to approve the selection, said John Moore, an attorney for the county party.

"She couldn't have been better," raved Dixie Zuber, 60, of Fort Myers. "She's a dynamite girl."

Biden will appear at Alico Arena at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday for a talk that is expected to focus on the nation's economic crisis.

Palin's rally got off to a headline-making start - and not of her making. Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott took the podium as one of the GOP speechmakers to warm up the crowd.

In his brief remarks, he referred to Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama by his full name, "Barack Hussein Obama," drawing cheers from the crowd but condemnation from the McCain/Palin campaign, which called Scott's decision inappropriate.

There was one other flicker of controversy - a middle-aged, bearded man shouted out in protest shortly after Palin began speaking. The candidate was unfazed.

"You know, bless your heart, sir, my son is in Iraq fighting for your right to protest right now," Palin said.

“I am honored to endorse Carole Jean Jordan. In business and as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, Carole Jean Jordan has been a lifelong representative of the values the Republican Party holds dear and I know she will carry those principles into this position,” said Chairman Greer.

“Tonight, people in Florida and across our nation learned more about Governor Palin’s real-life results and executive experience. With her signature plain-spoken style, Governor Palin contrasted her record of reform with Joe Biden’s smooth-talking, empty insider rhetoric, and the difference between them couldn’t have been clearer.

“Along with John McCain, Sarah Palin has clear convictions and knows what Americans want and deserve in our leaders: reform, a shake-up of the status quo, and bold leadership to get our economy back on track.

Independent Jan Schneider is winning 9 percent of the total vote, much of it from Democrats and Independents. A fourth candidate on the ballot, unaffiliated Dan Baldauf, is getting 3 percent of the total vote, and like Schneider, is pulling more votes from Democrats than from Republicans. .

“This poll confirms that Vern’s positive message of change is resonating with the voters while Christine Jennings’ negative and dishonest campaign has backfired,” said campaign spokeswoman Sally Tibbetts. “We take nothing for granted and will continue to campaign hard right up until the election and continue talking about the issues that matter to people – economic growth, jobs, energy and national security.”

The poll was conducted by Survey-USA Tuesday and Wednesday of this week and polled 591 likely voters in the 13th Congressional District. Survey-USA is a national polling firm that conducts non-partisan surveys for television and newspapers across the country. This survey was commissioned by WFLA-TV in Tampa and WFTX-TV in Cape Coral.

“These websites allow Floridians to find out what happens when Christine Jennings and Suzanne Kosmas stop being polite and start getting real,” explained RPOF Chairman Jim Greer. “Suzanne Kosmas and Christine Jennings are wrong for their districts and wrong for Florida, and voters deserve to know the truth about them.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Representative Mayfield, particularly his wife Deborah and his children Evan, Samuel and Coleman, as we mourn the loss of a devoted husband, father, and friend. We have lost a member of our Republican family and a public servant who represented the people of his district with honor and integrity. He will be truly missed.”

Obama Blames The 1999 Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act For The Financial Crisis Today, But Former President Bill Clinton Says Obama Is Wrong About The Act:

Obama Said Gramm-Leach-Bliley “Helped Cause This Mess.” Obama: “[McCain’s] economic plan was written by Phil Gramm, the architect in the US Senate of the deregulatory steps that helped cause this mess.” (Sen. Barack Obama, Remarks At A Campaign Event, Green Bay, WI, 9/22/08)

Tallahassee–Just one day after the Florida Democrat Party and Gary Siplin attempted to make political hay out of a bogus complaint against Belinda Ortiz, their deceptive tactics were exposed by the Florida House.

“Gary Siplin is the last person who should be hurling ethics accusations against someone else,” noted RPOF Communications Director Erin VanSickle. “While Belinda Ortiz is clearly innocent of these misleading complaints, Gary Siplin is far from being vindicated of his charges—including a felony conviction.”

Please check your local listings to confirm a time The News Hour will air in your region.

"As we look toward one of the most important elections in modern history, we are mindful of the sacrifices that so many have made in order to allow our great nation to prosper.

“The Jewish New Year is a time to celebrate, reflect and give thanks for our friends, family and our freedom. The coming months are crucial to the safety and security of the United States and our special relationship with the State of Israel. In these dangerous and trying times we must each be mindful of these challenges and we must do our part to ensure that our nation remains strong and secure.

“On behalf of Chairman Greer and the Republican Party of Florida, I wish you each ‘Shana Tova,’ and this year may your family remain healthy and strong as we pray for the safety of the United States and Israel.”

The survey was conducted Sept. 23, 24 and 25 by Research 2000 of Rockville, MD, according to the Daily Kos website. Daily Kos runs a national left-wing website dedicated to electing Democrat candidates, but the poll the site released Sunday contradicted Jennings' bogus survey that she released to the press claiming she only trailed by four points. Neither the Jennings’ poll nor the Daily Kos poll included Jan Schneider, a former Democrat who will be on the ballot in November as an unaffiliated candidate.

"Tonight's debate further illustrates John McCain's remarkable leadership and judgment. Over the course of this week, we have been faced with tough and alarming challenges, but the one constant has been John McCain's insistence that we put country first and work to protect American taxpayers. The same maverick leadership that led Senator McCain to take this remarkable step this week was evident tonight.

"Under the leadership of John McCain, we will address our economic crisis, maintain our national security, and find common-sense, bipartisan resolutions to the challenges that face our nation's families, homeowners, and small businesses."

“Alcee Hastings managed to attack sportsmen, African Americans, and the Jewish community in one sentence. By claiming that Governor Palin and those Americans who choose to bear arms do not care about the Jewish and African-American citizens of our country, Hastings is viciously throwing the worst kind of stereotypes at the wall and hoping one of them sticks. Even more unfortunate is the fact that this statement comes on the heels of an Obama Florida staff member’s comments that Governor Palin was as ‘Nazi sympathizer.’ The staffer had the good sense to backtrack from his comments, and so should Alcee Hastings.

“Community service is important to Representative Altman,” said Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp. “As a community leader and state representative, Thad has worked very hard to bring more high wage high tech and aerospace jobs to Central Florida in preparation for the retirement of the Space Shuttle program. Additionally, his business friendly polices earned him the 2008 Champion for Business Award from Associated Industries of Florida.”

“Thad will carry on the tradition of strong conservative leadership in the district,” continued Kottkamp. “He understands the challenges and facing the families and small business owners in the district and is ready to serve the people of the Space Coast in this new capacity.”

A Sun Sentinel-Florida Times-Union poll found that 48 percent of likely Hispanic voters in Florida back Republican presidential candidate John McCain , compared with 41 percent who support Democratic candidate Barack Obama. Ten percent remain undecided.

In contrast, a Pew Hispanic Center poll released Thursday shows Hispanic registered voters across the country favor Obama over McCain, 66 percent to 23 percent. It found that half of all Latinos across the country think the situation has worsened for them over the past year. The reasons: a slumping economy and stepped-up immigration enforcement.

A third poll released Sept. 10 by NDN, a Democratic-leaning, Washington, D.C.-based think tank, found that from 74 percent to 86 percent of Hispanics in four swing states — New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado and Florida — said the immigration issue was an important factor in their voting decision. Immigration ranked as the eighth-most important issue for all Florida voters; the economy and jobs ranked number one, the newspaper poll shows.

“Loebsack is now the first House Democrat to return campaign money from ethically-embattled House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.). His decision to return the money will put pressure on other Democrats,

particularly those in contested races, to do the same.” (Politico, 9/22/08)

Hoping she could get away with keeping Rangel’s money, all eyes are on fellow Democrat Suzanne Kosmas (D-FL) who is still standing by the scandal-scarred Congressman. So how much longer will Suzanne Kosmas hold out?

Suzanne Kosmas, even while slinging mud at Congressman Tom Feeney, continues to hold on to the tainted money of Rangel, who has admitted wrong-doing. Just last week House Democrats voted to kill a resolution that would have convened a House Ethics Committee investigation to look into Rangel’s mounting scandals (House Roll Call 609).

“Democrats who are running for office and continue to hold on to thousands of dollars in campaign contributions from the ethically-challenged Congressman have officially forfeited the mantle of change they claim to be running on,” said NRCC spokesman Ken Spain. “Suzanne Kosmas’ long-standing defense of embattled Rangel and her refusal to donate the tainted funds is just more evidence of her hypocrisy.”

"We were thrilled to welcome Governor Palin to Florida for her first trip to the state," noted RPOF Chairman Jim Greer. "Change is coming to Washington, and it will begin on January 20th when we start referring to John McCain and Governor Palin not as 'Senator' and 'Governor,' but as 'Mr. President' and 'Madam Vice President.'

By George Bennett, Palm Beach Post

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Another member of Palm Beach County's congressional delegation is in a political flap over where he lives.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney has a homestead exemption on a house in Palm Beach Gardens and describes it as his primary residence.

But the address on Mahoney's voter registration is a barn with a small apartment…The barn is in the 16th Congressional District that Mahoney represents; the homesteaded house is just outside Mahoney's district.

"It's embarrassing for Tim Mahoney to not live in his own district and then use a barn in the 16th District as his voting address," Rooney campaign spokesman Jeff Ostermayer said. "It's shameful that a member of the Financial Services Committee isn't registered to vote where he takes his homestead exemption."

Mahoney is the second local congressman to come under fire over his residency in recent months. In July, Democratic U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler was criticized for owning a house in Maryland while declaring Florida residency at his in-laws' house west of Delray Beach. While maintaining he did nothing wrong, Wexler rented an apartment west of Boca Raton to quell the uproar.

“Today’s women are mothers, professionals, small business owners, community activists, but Senator Barack Obama promises not a diverse plan for a diverse community, but one rhetorical catch-all: ‘Change.’

“Women in Florida and across our nation want a real leader who will work for stronger, healthier families, invest in our children’s future from the very beginning, and get our economy back on track so that we can create and keep high-wage, high-value jobs and buy affordable gas and groceries. We don’t want empty promises and we don’t want ‘change’ for change’s sake. We need our leaders to be mavericks who aren’t afraid to bring real change and reform the way business is done Washington, D.C.—and women know that the only two people who can do that are John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin.”

“In spite of the fact that his proposals are completely out of touch with voters in this state, Floridians want to ensure that Barack Obama does not begin to miss the red carpet treatment during his fundraising stops in the Sunshine State this weekend,” said Greer. “Whether it’s his opposition to offshore drilling, support for higher taxes, or proposals to hold unconditional negotiations with hostile leaders like Raul Castro, Obama has failed to demonstrate the judgment that Floridians are looking for in the next Commander in Chief.

“Until Senator Obama can make his way back to Hollywood where he fits in with his celebrity friends, we hope this celebrity star of fame reminds him of the very real and critical challenges facing hard-working Floridians every day.”

Visit Conventional Wisdom for footage of the presentation.

Road to Victory Rally

Date: Sunday, September 21, 2008

Location: The Villages, Lake Sumter Landing, Market Square

1020 Lake Sumter Landing

The Villages, FL 32162

Doors open at 1:30 p.m. EST

For more information, please call (850) 391- 4219 or e-mail victoryrally@rpof.org. Please allow plenty of time to clear security.

“The fact that Senator Barack Obama ships in someone like Jon Corzine, who has brought economic disaster to New Jersey’s families and businesses, speaks volumes,” noted RPOF Chairman Jim Greer. “Hopefully Obama is only using Corzine in Florida to help bankroll his campaign, not listen to his economic policies. The last thing we need is a Corzine-style, tax and spend approach to the economy, though it is looking more and more like that is exactly what Obama would do.”

He returned to Florida after being hospitalized upon release from his 5

He also has closed the gap or gained ground in other battleground states and, in the most crucial measure, the race for Electoral College votes, according to several polling data analysts.

He also has closed the gap or gained ground in other battleground states and, in the most crucial measure, the race for Electoral College votes, according to several polling data analysts.

State Representatives J.C. Planas, Carlos Lopez-Cantera, Juan Zapatas, Miami-Dade McCain Campaign Co-Chairs Fabio Andrade and Maria de la Milera and Kendall McCain Campaign Co-Chair Luis G. Castillo, Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez from City of Doral, Mayor Manny Maro

“In today’s Miami Herald, Barack Obama claims that he did not try to kill bipartisan immigration reform with poison pill amendments, but in reality, he proposed and backed amendments that dealt potentially fatal blows to the fragile coalition backing the bill. Obama’s says ‘…let me be very clear about this,’ but then proceeds to muddy the waters with vague answers that aren’t really answers at all. Immigration reform is both a challenge and a priority for our nation, and we can meet neither with ambiguous non-answers or political rhetoric.”

“As a teacher, school board member, and father of eight children, Charles knows first-hand the importance of common-sense legislation that seeks to support healthy families and strong schools,” said Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson. “Charles has served as a teacher and a school board member and has eight children of his own. There is no doubt in my mind that he will fight for Florida’s families, from strengthening education to cutting taxes.”

Charles Van Zant is running for State Representative in District 21, which includes Putnam, Bradford, Clay, Lake, Marion, and Volusia counties.

He is farther behind in the state than John Kerry was at this point in 2004, even though McCain began buying Florida TV ads only last week. By this time in 2004, the Bush-Cheney campaign had spent $13-million on Florida TV. In the rolling average of Florida polls compiled by the Web site RealClearPolitics.com, Obama has never taken the lead over McCain in Florida, and the latest average shows him behind by 5 percentage points. They were tied in early August.

Four Florida polls came out this week, with one showing a tied race, the others showing McCain leading by 5 to 8 percentage points.

"She is a mother, a wife. She has all the good attributes that are necessary for a vice president," Graham said, adding that having Palin on the ticket made her feel particularly good about voting for McCain. "I like what's up in her head. To me, she's smart."

After Palin made her speech at the Republican National Convention, the number of McCain volunteers in Pinellas County at least doubled, said Chet Renfro, who heads the county's presidential campaign effort.

Three polls this week in Florida, the nation's biggest battleground state, show that vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin is helping John McCain break away from Barack Obama.

The keys: the support of women and the history-making buzz she's generating on television and in celebrity mags.

For the first time this campaign season, McCain now leads Obama among Florida women -- 47 percent to 45 percent -- according to a survey of likely voters released Thursday by Quinnipiac University. Obama leads among women in the other polls, which nevertheless show him losing ground due to the Palin pick.

The numbers spell trouble for the Democrat and potential success for the Republican because strong backing by women often ensures a win in Florida. As the state goes, the nation often follows.

“Today, as Americans join together to remember the victims and the heroic men and women who risked and sacrificed their lives during one of the most horrendous event in our nation’s history, our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of those who were lost,” stated RPOF Chairman Jim Greer. “We honor the selfless men and women of our Armed Forces who risk their lives every day to protect our country, secure our liberty, and work to prevent future attacks.”

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“This district is very important to our great state economically. It is imperative that the citizens elect a candidate who truly understands the significance of both the area’s agricultural productivity and its ties to the space program,” said Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson. “Steve truly understands the importance of creating jobs and growing our economy in a constructive way. As a former president and current director of the Brevard County Farm Bureau, and an avid citrus farmer in Brevard County, he clearly values Florida’s service industry and the positive effect it has on our economy.”

Steve Crisafulli is running for State Representative in District 32, which includes Brevard and Orange counties.

Their marching orders: Infect independents, Hillary Clinton supporters and hard-core Republican voters with their newfound excitement over the national ticket. Parlay the frenzy over vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin into cold cash. Crank up a grass-roots machine of phone banks, precinct walks, talk radio and absentee ballot mailings.

''Don't think for a minute we can walk out of this convention -- even after Sarah Palin and Rudy Giuliani sliced and diced -- that it means we're going to win this election,'' Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum told Florida delegates in a pep talk Thursday morning over omelets and hash browns. ``We've got to go out and work very hard for it.''

“Florida’s Republican delegation was proud to participate in this historic evening and to officially nominate John McCain as our Republican candidate. From his maverick style that bucks ‘politics as usual’ to his pledge to clean up Washington, John McCain is the real deal. Side by side with his Vice President, Governor Sarah Palin, John McCain will use his extensive record of fighting for change to get our economy back on track, govern for the people, and reach across the aisle to work for common-sense solutions to our greatest challenges. We will continue to campaign with vigor and enthusiasm and we will carry Florida for John McCain and Sarah Palin.”

“Florida delegates are energized and motivated,” said Chairman Jim Greer. “Our thoughts and prayers are with our friends on the Gulf Coast as we move forward with the convention to formally nominate Senator John McCain.”

“Aside from the experience he has locally, Ross also has a magnitude of experience in broad-based financial situations,” said Speaker Designate Ray Sansom (R-Destin). “All of which will be utilized when making important decisions in the House regarding our state’s finances, economic future and most importantly, lowering taxes.”

"Republicans across the state join me in congratulating Governor Palin, who will join Senator John McCain as our Party’s Vice Presidential Nominee. The historic McCain–Palin ticket will offer common sense solutions and principled leadership based on a deep-rooted belief in putting country first.”

“I am pleased to announce that Florida’s entire delegation will be seated on the floor at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul. All 114 delegates and all 111 alternates will be seated and Florida will enjoy full representation at the Convention. A compromise reached with the RNC and the McCain campaign states that 57 of the delegates will receive traditional voting rights, while the other half of Florida’s delegation will become ‘honored guests’ with full delegate rights and privileges.

“As my top priority and after months of negotiations with the Republican National Committee and the McCain campaign, I am pleased to announce this compromise and I am proud of the resolution we have reached. Senator McCain and Governor Crist have always been champions of seating Florida’s entire delegation and we are grateful for their support.”

"Now that Barack Obama's self-proclaimed celebration is over, it is time to take a long, hard look at his record. Obama claims experience doesn't matter, judgment does, yet he clearly lacks both.

"Obama is opposed to additional drilling for oil, even though gas prices are at an all-time high. He voted for tax increases on people making as little as $42,000 a year. This is not good judgement, and it certainly isn't indicative of the experience necessary to run the greatest country on earth."

“From his extensive public service to Florida in the House of Representatives and in the United States Congress to his service to former Governor Jeb Bush and Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal, Judge Charles Canady is an outstanding and qualified nominee,” noted Chairman Greer.

“Today the Democrat Convention theme is 'change.' From record gas prices to higher unemployment and the mortgage crisis, America is facing difficult times that are not going to go away overnight. Sure, 'change' sounds great--but what about the small print? What about the higher taxes Barack Obama has proposed that would hurt working families? What about Obama's alarming lack of foreign policy experience, which led him to say he would meet with the leaders of the world's most dangerous and oppressive regimes without setting any rules first?

“I congratulate Tom Rooney on his victory tonight. This is a Republican district, and the voters there deserve a Republican leader to serve as their voice in our nation’s capital. Tom Rooney is the right person for the job, and I look forward to joining him on the campaign trail to fight for the return of conservative leadership in CD-16.”

“Tom has long served people of Florida, from fighting for space industry jobs to lowering taxes on Florida’s families and businesses, “said Chairman Greer. “I am proud to support him in his re-election bid as he continues to work for Central Florida and serve as our voice in Washington. I am confident he will continue to fight for his constituents and their best interests.”

“Having effectively served in Congress for over a year now, Vern Buchanan is even better prepared to represent the people of CD 13,” said Chairman Greer. “While Christine Jennings attempted to distract him with a protracted legal battle over the seat, Vern still managed to sponsor and co-sponsor legislation that helps both Veterans and small businesses alike.”

“I am honored to support the re-election of Lincoln Diaz-Balart,” said Chairman Greer. “We will do everything we can to make sure that Raul Martinez doesn’t get the chance to dish out more corruption and dishonor on people of CD 25 like he did when n the same place he put his constituents in. “Lincoln, on the other hand, has a deep commitment to the citizens of CD-25 and will continue serving them with honor.”

Raul Martinez, who was the country’s first Cuban-born mayor, elicited sharp criticism from Cuban-Americans nationwide when he suggested minimizing the US embargo against Cuba. Martinez not only favored easing sanctions on travel and remittances sent back by Cuban-Americans to relatives on the island, but was also seen as more likely to be open to some engagement with the Cuban government.

“I am honored to support the re-election of Lincoln Diaz-Balart,” said Chairman Greer. “We will do everything we can to make sure that Raul Martinez doesn’t get the chance to dish out more corruption and dishonor on people of CD 21 like he did when n the same place he put his constituents in. “Lincoln, on the other hand, has a deep commitment to the citizens of CD 21 and will continue serving them with honor.”

“Since the day he got elected, we’ve warned Tim Mahoney not to get too comfortable in his seat, because we are taking it back this year,” said Chairman Greer. “The best candidate to do that is Tom

Rooney.”

“To secure America’s future, we need a steady hand and a leader with an innate understanding of foreign policy. Barack Obama may have impressive words, but he is shaky at best when it comes to securing our nation’s future and defending our allies.

“In July, Obama said he would keep troops in Iraq to conduct counter-terrorism operations…after he mentioned that he might deploy them elsewhere. After he promised to end the war within 16 months, Obama backtracked and said his previous remarks were only a goal. Moreover, Obama has declared that he would meet with terrorist leaders without preconditions. These words are especially alarming in Florida, where a significant number of Cuban-Americans have spent their lives battling the Castro regime, which is just 90 miles away.

In the Florida House, Chairman Greer endorsed successful Republican candidates Todd Goberville, Don Curtis, Janet Adkins, Chris Dorworth, and Peter Boulware. An overwhelming majority of the RPOF State Committeemen and Committeewomen who sought and received endorsements by Greer also won their races. Additionally, Greer endorsed Bill Posey for Congress, who won his primary election and will keep CD 15 in Republican hands. Governor Crist endorsed Tom Rooney for Congress, who won his race and now faces Democrat Tim Mahoney in the CD 16 general election.

“We congratulate all of our Republican candidates with their victories last night,” said Speaker Designate Ray Sansom (R-Destin). “It has been a long and well fought Primary season for the campaigns. It will be a privilege working with the candidates as we reach our goal of victory in November.”

As the Mayor of Hialeah, Raul Martinez denied travel funds for a police officer training program, but on the very same day increased his own mayoral travel expenses by $12,000. (Miami Herald, 8/25/1996)

Martinez sparked a controversy with Hialeah firefighters during labor contract negotiations when he said their requests for pay raises were “outrageous” and that “they don’t care about anyone but themselves.” (The Miami Herald, 10/7/04) During negotiations, Martinez became so irate that “shouting matches” erupted between Martinez and the union president at City Council meetings. (Miami Herald, 10/20/2005)

“Today the Democrats speak of their plans for renewing America’s economy, plans which would, in reality, raise taxes on millions of Americans and hurt small businesses,” said Chairman Greer. “What we need right now is immediate relief for families and a more long-term plan that will get our economy back on track. Instead, Obama pledges to raise taxes on families making as little at $32,000 (get link for this) a year, taking more money out of our paychecks and sending it to the government. Senator McCain’s economic plan is committed to keeping taxes low while creating millions of good American jobs—and that is just what we need.”

“On behalf of the Republican Party of Florida, I congratulate all our Republican candidates. With the primary now behind us, we will move forward with a strong slate of Republicans who are most qualified and best able to win in November. Together they will continue to fight for lower taxes on families and small businesses and less government red tape which stifles economic growth.

The contest is open to all African-American Florida High School Students pursuing a GED or diploma who are college bound. To enter, students will write and submit an essay of no more than 3,000 but not less than 1,000 words, on what they have learned from the life of James Weldon Johnson

Johnson was born in Jacksonville in 1871 and was founder of the first black-oriented daily newspaper in America, was the first black attorney in the state Florida since Reconstruction, a noted poet, author and songwriter, the first black executive secretary of the National Association of Colored People, and the author of “Lift Every Voce and Sing” which has become known as the “The Negro National Anthem”. His honors and awards include the prestigious NAACP Spingarn Medal in 1925, the W.E.B. DuBois Prize for Negro Literature in 1933 and appeared on a 22-cent postal stamp as part of the “Black Heritage USA” series of the 1970’s. Throughout his life, this outstanding Floridian was dedicated to the ending of discrimination in America, urging African-Americans to become educated and to work for political power.

“After pleas from Jewish leaders for Senator Barack Obama to remove former President Carter from the program at the Democratic National Convention, his presence there says a lot about Senator Obama’s support for the anti-Israel bias that continues to plague Democrat leaders.

“From his meeting with Khaled Meshal in Syria, Carter’s neglect of Israel’s right to defend its people and borders, to the book he published, Palestine: Peace not Apartheid, Carter has demonstrated time and again that he is out of touch with the Jewish community and Israel.

In addition to the ConventionCast, we’ll also provide a running commentary on our blog, Conventional Wisdom, which will feature behind-the-scenes photos and videos. Check it out at http://rpofconventionalwisdom.blogspot.com/.

Sincerely,

The RPOF Communications Team

“Today the Democrats have gathered in Denver for the much-hyped opening night of the Democrat National Convention,” stated Chairman Greer. “While Senator Barack Obama has certainly proved that he is a rock star, he has also shown an alarming lack of experience that makes him woefully unprepared to serve as this nation’s Commander in Chief. In these uncertain and challenging times, what America needs is John McCain—a candidate with a remarkable record of leadership, experience, and stand-apart service.”

“Senator Barack Obama’s selection of Senator Joe Biden clearly shows that Senator Obama is worried about his own lack of foreign policy credentials. The problem is that Senator Biden has been the leading critic of Barack Obama's foreign policy. As our troops continue to move towards victory in the global war on terror, we need leaders who not only have the experience to lead us to victory, but who agree on a plan to get there.

“When it comes to the economy, Obama and Biden are in agreement – the problem is that they both agree on a tax increase for everyone who makes over $42,000 per year. This is clearly not an economic policy that is going to help keep Florida’s economy vibrant.

As Senator McCain has demonstrated time and again, we must put our country first, especially in times of emergency. All donations may be dropped off at the Regional Victory Office in your area. Below please find a list of Victory Offices across the state.

McCain regained sizable ground among unaffiliated voters in the new survey. After trailing among unaffiliateds by 23 percent in July, he has now drawn even with Obama among those voters. McCain earns the vote from 86 percent of Republicans while 78 percent of Democrats say they’ll vote for Obama."

“I am proud to join House Leadership in support of the Republican nominee House District 56,” said Chairman Greer. “Rachel will make a great addition to the Republican majority in our State House, and I am confident she will be a leader who will uphold the tradition of great Republican leadership in this district.”

“We witnessed a great slate of candidates seeking the nomination from the Republican State

Executive Committee members in Hillsborough County. I applaud the efforts of the SEC members in Hillsborough County and I am very pleased at the selection of Rachel Burgin to represent the citizens of Hillsborough County,” said Speaker Designate Ray Sansom (R-Destin). “Rachel has an excellent background in advocating for the principles and values that the constituents of House District 56 hold dear. Three generations of her family live, work and worship in eastern Hillsborough County and Rachel is a part of that legacy. We are excited as we look towards her victory in November.”

“A local volunteer found the valuable check at a gas station near the Tallahassee airport yesterday,” said Republican Party of Florida Communications Director Erin VanSickle. “We can only assume that the document was mistakenly dropped by Senator Barack Obama’s campaign manager David Plouffe. He likely stopped at the gas station to check the tire pressure on his rental car prior to heading to last night’s campaign fundraiser in Tallahassee.”

“I am delighted to endorse Howard Coates’ candidacy for House District 85 to represent Palm Beach County,” said RPOF Chairman Jim Greer. “Howard has been very effective in his role as a community leader and I know he will serve his fellow constituents well in the Florida House.”

“Howard Coates is dedicated to his family, his country, and his community and that is why I wholeheartedly support his candidacy for State Representative House District 85,” said Speaker Designate Ray Sansom (R-Destin). “Howard’s professional and military experience, as well as his commitment to serving the public, make him the best choice for the citizens of Palm Beach County.”

“I am pleased to announce the creation of the Women’s Leadership Council,” stated Jim Greer. “It’s amazing to see the number of Republican women who have turned out in support of the Republican effort in every corner of the state; women are more involved in politics than ever before and we are grateful for their tireless work on behalf of our Republican candidates.”

“I am deeply saddened by the news of Chairman Gwatney’s untimely death,” stated Chairman Greer. “While Republicans and Democrats may have differing political views, above all, we are Americans and ultimately fighting for the betterment of our country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chairman Gwatney’s family and friends.”

1. Governor Richardson, you previously expressed a lack of support for portions of Senator Obama’s foreign policy plan. Senator Obama has vowed to meet with Iranian leader Ahmed Ahmadinejad without preconditions – do you now support this plan?

It must contend with an unpopular president according to current polls, as well as a party split between its conservative and moderate factions, $4-per-gallon gas and ideological diatribes instead of solutions to economic crises.

But if you think the Florida Legislature is going to go Democratic this year, guess again.

Democrats could likely add more members to the U.S. House and Senate, further cementing their control of Congress, but the Florida Democratic Party still has many problems that it is not dealing with. And that goes double for the party in Polk County.

First the state: Party leaders recently said they'd wait and try to gain more seats in the Legislature in 2010.

“Through this office, dedicated grassroots volunteerswill work to make phone calls, knock on doors and turn out the vote for Senator McCain and all of our state and local Republican elected officials,” stated Congressman Mica. “Republican volunteers have been up to task in years past, and this year, it is more important than ever that we keep fighting hard for each vote.”

“Governor Crist returned from the Team Florida Trade and Business Development Mission just two weeks ago and we can already see th