All Dem Hands on Deck for Meek and Not Crist's Independent Bid

With Gov. Charlie Crist rumored to be going independent, incoming Democratic leaders in the House and Senate came out today to back U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meeks bid.

"Kendrick is committed to issues of mutual concern, from providing seniors with the best health care available to enhancing the special U.S.-Israel relationship to creating jobs in our communities, said incoming Senate Minority Leader Nan Rich, D-Weston. Kendrick needs to be our next U.S. Senator and we will work hard to elect him to serve all of Florida in November." .

"Kendrick Meek has traveled throughout this state to learn about the issues and concerns affecting Florida families, said incoming House Minority Leader Ron Saunders, D-Key West. In Key West, he focused his attention on rural health-care and the needs of the community I represent. Kendrick is a hardworking leader who is committed to serving all parts of our state."

The Meek campaign has been in overdrive today, releasing statements from Democratic leaders reinforcing that they plan to support Meek and not Crist. While The National Review has been speculating that former Demoratic National Committee chairman and presidential candidate Howard Dean was backing Crist, Time is now reporting that this resulted from a joke the former Vermont governor made.