WASHINGTON -- At about 5:15 p.m. on June 17, 1971, in the Oval Office, the president ordered a crime: "I want it implemented on a thievery basis. Goddamn it, get in and get those files. Blow the safe and get it."

If only Charlie Crist knew more about water. Just once I'd like to hear him throw away the campaign talking points and show me he understands Everglades restoration strategies. I think I'd feel better about him.

As a 35-year-old first-term senator in Florida, that message had a chilling effect on me. It was conveyed by a telephone call from Marvin Rosen, a longtime friend and supporter of the Kennedy family.

Whenever were home in Florida, our constituents always ask us about the countrys finances. The American people instinctively know that running mindless deficits and carrying an unsustainable debt load hurts our country and their families.