Bill McCollum’s campaign in high gear

June 17, 7:05 PMOrlando Republican ExaminerBlas Padrino

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The campaign by Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum to succeed Charlie Crist as Governor continues in high gear. Although the November 2010 elections are still 17 months away, the likely Republican nominee has been busy gathering endorsements and speaking out about his vision for the State’s future.
An important development related to his effort was the recent endorsement by Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Charles Bronson. Mr. Bronson is term-limited from running for re-election to his current post and had considered a run of his own for the governorship. His decision to throw his support behind Mr. McCollum precludes the possibility of a protracted and costly primary contest on the Republican side of the ballot. Avoiding a divisive primary race became even more important in view of the fact that the Democrats have quickly lined up behind Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink’s candidacy for the Governor’s mansion.
In the likely McCollum-Sink race the Attorney General has the early advantage. A Mason Dixon poll conducted in mid-May had McCollum ahead by six percentage points at 40% to 34%, with 26% undecided. A more recent internal poll has the A.G. up by 8% at 41% to 33%. Mr. McCollum also has wide leads in popularity and favorable opinion among voters. His campaign to combat child predators has earned him high marks with Floridians. Conversely, Ms. Sink’s recent attack on the Attorney General for his appearance on a TV spot to raise awareness about internet predators made her look petty in the eyes of the public. In a clearly politically motivated move, the CFO attempted to block the showing of the public service announcement by delaying payment to the company that produced it. The negative reaction to her rogue action forced her to back down in embarrassment.
Yesterday, thirteen members of the Florida congressional delegation added their names to the long list of A.G. McCollum’s endorsements.
Clearly, Florida State Party Chairman Jim Greer’s strategy of developing a united front for the 2010 elections early in the cycle has gotten off to an impressive start. The breadth of party support for the Republican candidates in the statewide races promises a gentle – and inexpensive – primary season.

(Above photo: at right, A.G. Bill McCollum; at left, Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson)

More on the appearance of Dick Morris at Orlando event in August:
For details on the appearance of political commentator Dick Morris in Orlando on August 8, please, see the flyer below.

Dick Morris Flyer

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For more info: 
Mr. McCollum's campaign website
Mr. Charles Bronson's endorsement press release.
Florida congressional delegation members' endorsement
Analysis of poll results
Wall Street Journal piece on McCollum's candidacy
Miami Herald's report of Mr. McCollum's Miami speech