An Associated Press analysis found Crist has held about 90 ceremonial signings during his nearly four years in office, while his predecessor, Republican Jeb Bush, held about 65 during eight years.
Each event can cost taxpayers thousands of dollars in operating expenses for the state airplane and, sometimes, the governor’s extensive security detail.
Many of Crist’s events have been dizzying runs across the state for multiple ceremonial signings of the same piece of legislation – usually in major media markets. He even once left the state, visiting the New York Stock Exchange to ceremonially sign a bill authorizing the state’s $1.95 billion investment in technology and growth industries.
Critics, including some local media, say the signings are cloaked campaign events paid for by the public. They allow the governor to cherry-pick issues and create events likely to make the evening news, bolstering his image. Continue reading here.
