Some Democratic notables back Bush

MIAMI BEACH -- Republican Gov. Jeb Bush won endorsements Thursday from well-known Florida Democrats, including Tampa Mayor Dick Greco, three former House speakers and the longest-serving current legislator, Sen. Ron Silver of North Miami.

Bush is counting on substantial crossover support in his fight for re-election against Tampa lawyer Bill McBride. Democrats outnumber Republicans, but history shows Democrats are more likely to cross party lines than Republicans.

"He's done a great job," said Greco, who stood behind Bush on a patio at the Fontainebleau Hotel, decorated with a big red "Democrats Unite for Jeb!" banner. Greco did not endorse Bush in his last race in 1998, but supported George W. Bush in the 2000 presidential election.

"McBride's a nice guy," Greco said, "but I don't see changing a good thing. I think he (Bush) does what he honestly thinks is right."

Silver supported Bush in 1998, and Bush named his prescription drug benefit for the lawmaker, who praised Bush's record on human services issues. Silver, a lawyer, is term-limited and has been mentioned as a possible future candidate for a local judgeship.

Bush flew to the afternoon event on a private jet with former Speakers James Harold Thompson, Don Tucker and T.K. Wetherell. All are lobbyists for clients such as colleges, hospitals and power companies whose interests rise and fall depending on who runs the Capitol.

Tucker had a simple explanation for his endorsement.

"I know Jeb. I don't know this other fella," said Tucker, who served two terms as speaker in the 1970s and lobbies for Southern Wine & Spirits, a major liquor distributor. "My practice is to support an incumbent, unless he screws up."

Tucker said Bush called him months ago and asked for his support.

Wetherell, a former Tallahassee Community College president, called himself the "house Democrat" at a leading Republican lobbying firm, Southern Strategies. The firm's members include Paul Bradshaw, whose wife, Sally, is one of Bush's closest political advisers.

Wetherell praised Bush's focus on higher education and said McBride's emphasis on public schools makes him "a one-dimensional candidate." Others who endorsed Bush also cited his education record.

Thirteen Democratic sheriffs, most from small North Florida counties, also have endorsed Bush over McBride.

© 2006 • All Rights Reserved • St. Petersburg Times
490 First Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-893-8111

Contact the Times | Privacy Policy
Standard of Accuracy | Terms, Conditions & Copyright