Monday, August 31, 2009

Florida's Gov. Crist accused of 'cronyism'


by David R. Sands
Washington Times
August 29, 2009

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist on Friday selected his closest political confidant to serve out the term of retiring Republican Sen. Mel Martinez for 16 months, until the Republican governor himself hopes to take over the seat.

In the choice that quickly brought Democratic charges of cronyism, Mr. Crist ended a long and very public selection process by naming former chief of staff George LeMieux - a self-described "Charlie Crist Republican" - as the state's next senator.

The Broward County lawyer and Republican Party official has formed a tight bond with his former boss, who once called Mr. LeMieux the "maestro" of his winning 2006 gubernatorial campaign...