Politics

Crist earns kudos from black caucus

He is given a hero's welcome at a gala, where he's described as "Florida's first black governor."

AMELIA ISLAND - Gov. Charlie Crist was endearingly described Wednesday as Florida's first black governor and, at a gala held by the state's black lawmakers, praised for his commitment to leading in a way that represents everybody.

The appearance of the Republican - and white - governor at legislative black caucus' event was a striking contrast to the relationship his predecessor, fellow Republican Jeb Bush, often had with the organization.

Rep. Terry Fields, D-Jacksonville, noted to the group, "This doesn't happen very often."

When Crist entered the room, caucus members met him with hugs and broad smiles.

"Don't you think he's Florida's first black governor?" Fields said as the crowd erupted in applause. "He takes care of the whole state."

During his remarks, Crist mentioned how he fought as attorney general for a bill that would give his position the ability to prosecute businesses for civil rights violations. After the bill became law, he recalled using it against a Perry motel owner who told black guests they couldn't swim in the pool.

"The man who said that will never do business in the state of Florida," Crist said.

Bush didn't always have the best relationship with black lawmakers, who often criticized his positions on education and social issues and who protested his decision to eliminate racial preferences in state contracts and university admissions.

Bush, who took a more partisan approach to his job, was never known to attend events - like Wednesday night's - that were predominantly attended by Democrats.

According to exit polls, Crist received 18 percent of the black vote when elected in November, compared with 6 percent Bush received when he was re-elected in 2002.

"Simple human justice is not complicated," Crist told the group. "It's not. It's just the right thing to do."

Crist called Rep. Matt Meadows, D-Lauderhill, up to the stage to share a story about when they served together in the Senate. When the chamber opened sessions with the Pledge of Allegiance, Meadows always added one word to the ending line "liberty and justice for all."

That word: Someday.

"When we elected him governor," Meadows said, standing beside Crist, "that day is here in the state of Florida."

[Last modified August 23, 2007, 00:26:58]