Matt Dixon of the Florida Times-Union reports how the state GOP is “unleashing” on former Gov. (and former Republican) Charlie Crist.
But, Dixon reports, a “small, well-heeled, segment of the party” is being slightly more pragmatic about Crist’s candidacy—if there is one. They represent a group of donors staying true to the former leader after he changed party affiliation in 2011.
“I think the world of Charlie and hope he will always be my friend,” John McKay told reporters. McKay is president of a real estate company out of Bradenton, as well as a former Republican Senate president staying close to Crist after his party switch. He says his support will continue with Crist.
Crist says he will hit the friendly Republican donor bank if he decides to go in the race.
“I suspect I would,” Crist said. “I mean, why not? I’ll need all the help I can get.”
Current Gov. Rick Scott would have a few distinct advantages in his re-election in 2014, namely money. As the incumbent, he has a head start on money with his “Let’s Get to Work” committee, which already has nearly $11 million in the war chest. Scott also has his own resources to rely on, with a personal net worth of more than $83 million.
