Thursday, April 9, 2009

Friends aplenty!!!

Given the current status of the national and state economy, it would probably be prudent to gripe about how bad things are, how the government is approaching things backwards and how small businesses are being squeezed into submission. However, every time we open the paper, turn on the television or radio, or browse the Internet there are no shortage of stories depicting how horrible our economy is currently. There is no denying things are tough which, makes the focus of this post even more important-- What happens when individuals who support your industry run for the same office? You may chuckle but, the scary reality is Florida's 2010 election could turn out to be an expensive endeavor.

First, let's discuss the most obvious race of importance to all nursery and landscape businesses; the position of Florida's Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Unless you have chosen to join "Rip Van Winkle" and slept through the past two years--you obviously are aware that several industry advocates have already entered the race to serve as Florida's Commissioner of Agriculture. Just to re-cap for those who are wiping the sleep from their eyes, former State Representative Marty Bowen (R- Winter Haven), State Senator Carey Baker (R- Eustis) and Congressman Adam Putnam (R- Bartow) all have active campaign accounts and are seeking your support. Each of these individuals have gotten down in the trenches to fight for the industry and, I am sure each of us has a very good reason why one of these candidates sticks out above the others. The one undeniable fact is: Each candidate will be making the rounds to collect your physical and financial support for their candidacy.

Oh if it was only as simple as supporting one of our friends!!!!! A word to the wise, do not be fooled into thinking the race for Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services will be full of candidates who "love" us. Rest assured, our good friends in the Environmental Community are actively looking for a legitimate candidate to win the race as well. Most recently, a name which has been tosses around and even got some print space in the St. Petersburg Times is Mr. Eric Draper. Mr. Draper has served for several years as the public policy director and vice-president of the Audubon of Florida. Hmmmmmmmm?????

From a historical perspective, the 2010 election has the potential to be the first statewide race since the 1800's in which all cabinet offices do not have an incumbent seeking re-election. Although not official, many believe Florida's Governor Charlie Crist will seek election to the United States Senate Seat being vacated by Sen. Mel Martinez. Assuming the Governor makes the decision to run for the United States Senate, we could have a scenario where all four cabinet post are open. Why, you may ask? Basically, if the Governor doesn't seek re-election then both Attorney General Bill McCollum (by the way he could run for re-election to the Attorney General post) and Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Charles Bronson (he is term limited and can't run for the Ag Commissioner post) are likely to both run for the Republican nomination. Seems as though I am missing someone?....
Yes! Shame on me for not mentioning Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink. Since her election in 2006, Sink has time and again proven her savvy in Florida political process. Even as she is outnumber three to one on the Florida Cabinet, Sink has been able to work with Republican and Democratic leaders on a plethora of critical issues.

Understand, it is still very early, hell the election is still 18 months away. However, these candidates are actively raising money, they are building their grassroots support as we speak. Although, we all will have to wait until at least May before thinks really start to shake out; there is no doubt it will be exciting to watch unfold.

Regardless, the business and agricultural communities will have several allies running for statewide office. This means friendships may get strained, feeling may get hurt and ultimately the 2010 election will most likely be the most expensive state election we have ever experienced.

Just some food for thought. As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or thoughts.

Until next time.

Jim

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