Reformed TEA Party of Florida Will Support 'Mainstream' Fiscal Conservatives

The Florida TEA Party, disbanded by former Chairwoman Peg Dunmire earlier this month, has been resuscitated and renamed the TEA Party of Florida, announced new chairman John Long.

According to the party constitution filed with the state Division of Elections, TPF "is organized to implement and give voice to the principle that the American public has been taxed enough already by: functioning as a political entity separate and distinct from all other political parties or movements; moving public policy in the direction of reducing the tax load on the American public by building a political party that elects like-minded candidates to public office; chartering affiliate parties throughout the United States and promoting their growth and activities; and entering into public information activities."

Though the former TEA Party fielded 30 of its own candidates around Florida in 2010, Long said TPF "will support mainstream candidates who are committed to fiscal restraint, and have a real chance of winning." He said the party would back the "most fiscally conservative" nominees for U.S. Senate and president, irrespective of party affiliation.

In addition to Long, of Davenport, Don Baehr of Auburndale is listed as treasurer and party founder Fred O'Neal remains general counsel.

In the past year, O'Neal, an Orlando attorney, fended off several lawsuits by Republicans and a rival tea group that challenged the party's use of the "tea" name.

TPF is headquartered in Celebration.