Print

Email story

Comment

Email editor

Bilirakis for Republicans

By Times editorial
Published August 15, 2006

Mike Bilirakis is leaving the U.S. House after 24 years, and his son, Gus, has been positioning himself for years to succeed his father in this sprawling three-county district that covers North Pinellas, West Pasco and suburbs to the north and east of Tampa in Hillsborough County. The race has attracted national attention from both parties and obscene amounts of money, so maybe the younger Bilirakis can be forgiven for campaigning as though he had no primary.

Bilirakis, 43, has served eight years in the Florida House and is being challenged in the Republican primary by a Clearwater chiropractor who says he doesn't believe in political dynasties. "The son of a congressman," says David Langheier, "is not a representative member of our district."

Langheier, 47, employs some populist themes in a campaign that he says has been a family project. Unfortunately, he can't match Bilirakis' political experience.

In the Legislature, Bilirakis showed an appealing independent streak at times: opposing Gov. Jeb Bush on school vouchers and FCATs, and calling for tax reform that promotes fairness. He brings a sharper partisan edge to his congressional campaign, including fundraising visits from Vice President Dick Cheney and House Speaker Dennis Hastert. But he has pledged to break with Republicans on the federal minimum wage, which hasn't been increased in a decade.

Bilirakis has raised a stunning $1.7-million in campaign contributions and is unlikely to be pressed in this primary. But he will need to move beyond vague platitudes on homeland security and spending restraint when he meets up in the general election with former Hillsborough County Commissioner Phyllis Busansky.

The Times recommends Gus Bilirakis in the Republican primary for the 9th Congressional District.

[Last modified August 15, 2006, 05:50:26]