Independent gubernatorial candidate Bud Chiles, who debuted in the first polls released since he entered the race last week, is going to be in Ybor City tomorrow taking part in a family tradition -- walking as a campaign event. Buds father, the legendary Lawton Chiles, famously walked across Florida during his unlikely -- but ultimately successful -- campaign to win a U.S. Senate seat in 1970. Walkin Lawton continued to walk across the Sunshine State to victory in two other Senate elections, as well as two more wins in gubernatorialraces.

Hello Bill: Is it Time for McCollum to Call Sarah Palin?

If he hasn't done so already -- and if Rick Scott hasn't beaten him to the punch -- Bill McCollum may want to put in a call to Sarah Palin. The GOP rabble-rouser, whose endorsers have scored a string of primary victories, might help lift McCollum's sinking fortunes in Florida's gubernatorial primary, says Daniel Smith, a political science prof at UF. "He has to do something. Maybe call Sarah Palin," muses Smith, who sees Scott's surge in the polls as a "steady trend with nothing to stop it."

PBA Backs Jeff Kottkamp for Attorney General

By Kevin Derby

The Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) continued its endorsements today, backing Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp for attorney general. With more than 36,000 members, the PBA could be a big factor in a tight Republican primary as Kottkamp faces challenges from Pam Bondi and Holly Benson. Lieutenant Governor Kottkamp has stood strong with law enforcement and correctional officers throughout Florida, said PBA President John Rivera. Because of that long-term support of fighting for our issues and being a partner with law enforcement, we proudly endorse Jeff Kottkamp.

Florida Political Earthquake: New Poll has Scott Beating McCollum by 13 Points; Greene, Meek Almost Even

By Kevin Derby

Want more proof that Rick Scott and Jeff Greene have shaken up Floridas political landscape?

PBA Backs Adam Putnam for Agriculture Commissioner

By Kevin Derby

The Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) is backing U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam, the Republican candidate, to be the states next commissioner of agriculture and consumer services. The PBA has more than 36,000 members across the state. The Florida Police Benevolent Association is proud to endorse Adam Putnam for commissioner of agriculture, said PBA President John Rivera. Adam has the real-life experience, knowledge and commitment to serve us well as commissioner and as a member of the Florida Cabinet.

Jeb Bush Backs Jim Norman Over Kevin Ambler

By Kevin Derby

Big endorsement today for Hillsborough County Commissioner Jim Norman in his bid to win the Republican nomination in the race to replace retiring Sen. Victor Crist, R-Tampa, from former Gov. Jeb Bush. Norman is facing Rep. Kevin Ambler, R-Tampa, for the GOP nomination. Jim is a conservative leader who will fight to strengthen Florida's economy, advance education reform and do what's right for the people of Florida, said Bush.

Greene Launches New Web Site Blasting Corrupt Florida Politicians

By Kevin Derby

Not only did Mike Tyson serve as the best man at Jeff Greenes wedding, he may have also given the candidate for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination campaign advice. Greene is coming out in the first rounds, throwing everything -- just like Tyson did against the generation of heavyweights who clogged up the division between Holmes and Holyfield.

Rothstein Gets 50 Years; Brace for More Political Fallout

An apologetic Scott Rothstein was sentenced to 50 years in federal prison today for masterminding a Ponzi scheme that bilked investors out of $1.2 billion. The disbarred Fort Lauderdale lawyer had pleaded guilty to conducting the financial scam that funded his high-flying lifestyle and bankrolled millions of dollars in contributions to politicians and political parties. His appearance in U.S. District Court in Fort Lauderdale attracted hordes of media outside the courthouse. More details and video upcoming.

FMA PAC Backs Dana Young to Replace Faye Culp

By Kevin Derby

Dana Young, who is facing a crowded Republican primary to replace retiring Rep. Faye Culp, R-Tampa, just received a big boost to her campaign -- an endorsement from the Florida Medical Association (FMA) PAC. As a mother of two, Dana Young will work hard to protect the rights of Florida's families to access quality health care, said Dr. Madelyn Butler, who is the PAC president and president-elect of the FMA. She understands that the doctor-patient relationship cannot be undermined by government intrusion.

Meek Takes Aim at Drilling, Crist

By Kevin Derby

With two new polls released today showing his campaign for the U.S. Senate mired in a distant third place behind independent Gov. Charlie Crist and Republican former House Speaker Marco Rubio, U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, the leading Democrat in the race, took on BP and backers of offshore drilling in a speech to the America's Future Now conference. "Where are the conservatives, the 'Drill, Baby, Drill' people, now?" demanded Meek.

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