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Politics

Relaxed Davis has no regrets

By ALEX LEARY
Published November 9, 2006

TAMPA - Jim Davis stood before his Tampa headquarters for a final time Wednesday and said he would only do one thing differently in his failed bid for governor: "Try to get the election moved a week later."

He didn't laugh, but the humor was obvious. Though he was gaining on Charlie Crist, the extra time would have simply given Republicans the opportunity to raise and spend more money to defeat him.

"Gov.-elect Crist and the Republican Party spent more money on political advertising than any campaign in the country and probably the history of Florida," Davis said of the estimated $48-million spent by Crist and the GOP.

Davis and the Democrats spent about $17-million in the nine-week general election. The party money includes all candidates but most was on the gubernatorial contest.

But Davis claimed a victory of sorts, saying his campaign elevated the issues.

"Yesterday was a day that many Floridians stood up and said, 'This is about us; it's not about the money.' But it just wasn't a majority."

Davis said he was impressed that he took more of the Hispanic vote than Crist. But a healthy portion of the African-American vote went to Crist, even as Davis sought to make history by naming a black running mate, former state Sen. Daryl Jones.

Appearing relaxed in a blue button-down shirt, sleeves rolled up, open collar, Davis hinted that he is not done with elective politics. Having run statewide, his name identification has grown, and he made important contacts.

History shows it can happen. Jeb Bush was defeated, but not crushed, in 1994 and came back four years later to win.

"I have relationships with a lot of wonderful people around this state - Democrats, Republicans or independents who believed in me. And I haven't stopped believing in them. After I get things settled at home, I'll have some time to think about my future," Davis said.

The Tampa congressman, who is trained as a lawyer, will return to Washington next week and finish his term. With Democrats taking control of the House, Davis could have been catapulted up the ranks.

But he said he has no regrets about his decision to vacate the seat (won Tuesday by Democrat Kathy Castor) to run for governor.

[Last modified November 9, 2006, 05:59:20]