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RACES OF INTEREST  Governor 6716 of 6716 precincts reporting Jeb Bush (i) R 2,828,288   56.1% Bill McBride D 2,172,702   43.1% Robert (Bob) Kunst I 41,814   0.8%  Attorney General 6716 of 6716 precincts reporting Charlie Crist R 2,608,909   53.5% Buddy Dyer D 2,268,697   46.5%  Agricultural Comm. 6716 of 6716 precincts reporting Charlie Bronson (i) R 2,775,020   57.4% David Nelson D 2,056,092   42.6%  U.S. House District 9 254 of 254 precincts reporting Michael Bilirakis (i) R 168,929   71.4% Chuck Kalogianis D 67,528   28.6%  U.S. House District 5 286 of 286 precincts reporting Virginia Brown-Waite R 121,983   47.9% Karen L. Thurman (i) D 117,748   46.2% Jack Gargan I 8,638   3.4% Brian Moore I 6,222   2.4%  U. S. House District 13 321 of 321 precincts reporting Katherine Harris R 138,952   54.8% Jan Schneider D 114,629   45.2%  Florida Amendment 9 (class size) 6716 of 6716 precincts reporting Yes 2,514,443   52.3% No 2,297,827   47.7%  Florida Amendment 6 (smoking) 6716 of 6716 precincts reporting Yes 3,455,467   70.9% No 1,420,659   29.1%  Florida Amendment 11 (higher ed.) 6716 of 6716 precincts reporting Yes 2,774,311   60.4% No 1,820,453   39.6%  Florida Senate District 3 208 of 208 precincts reporting Nancy Argenziano R 82,470   54.5% Richard Mitchell (i) D 68,911   45.5%  Florida Senate District 11 160 of 160 precincts reporting Mike Fasano R 99,482   62.9% Lee Cannon D 58,629   37.1%  Florida Senate District 13 165 of 165 precincts reporting Dennis L. Jones R 87,358   59.8% Joanna Kennedy D 58,799   40.2%  Florida Senate District 16 153 of 153 precincts reporting Jim Sebesta (i) R 87,009   64.2% Allison McInnis-Gimbert D 48,565   35.8%  State House District 43 50 of 50 precincts reporting Charles S. Dean R 37,091   64.0% Jimmy Carr D 18,859   32.5% Neil A. Polimeni L 2,013   3.5%  State House District 44 56 of 56 precincts reporting Dave Russell (i) R 31,561   57.9% Gregory L. Williams D 21,245   39.0% Edward Pittman L 1,658   3.0%  State House District 45 54 of 54 precincts reporting Tom Anderson R 31,748   61.7% Kevin Jensen D 17,664   34.3% John J. Doherty L 2,017   3.9%  State House District 46 54 of 54 precincts reporting Heather Fiorentino (i) R 28,409   60.9% Craig McCart D 16,881   36.2% Jon M. Kueny L 1,379   3.0%  State House District 47 46 of 46 precincts reporting Kevin Christopher Ambler R 26,683   58.4% Michael A. Steinberg D 17,756   38.9% Rob Schwartzberg L 1,238   2.7%  State House District 48 51 of 51 precincts reporting Gus Michael Bilirakis (i) R 43,142   84.8% A.J. Brent L 7,710   15.2%  State House District 49 47 of 47 precincts reporting John 'Q' Quinones R 16,181   54.1% Jose Fernandez D 13,720   45.9%  State House District 50 54 of 54 precincts reporting Kim Berfield (i) R 28,239   63.8% Kai Rush D 14,108   31.9% Brian L. Gilbert L 1,895   4.3%  State House District 51 52 of 52 precincts reporting Leslie Waters (i) R 29,425   60.4% Richard Langton D 19,315   39.6% State House District 52 55 of 55 precincts reporting Frank Farkas (i) R 23,514   52.7% Christopher Eaton D 19,466   43.6% Alison Lipscomb L 1,673   3.7%  State House District 53 55 of 55 precincts reporting Charlie Justice (i) D 19,882   53.0% Ken Feck R 16,355   43.6% Michael Gilson-DeLemos L 1,303   3.5%  State House District 54 59 of 59 precincts reporting John Carassas (i) R 38,352   77.2% Kurt Gratzol G 11,349   22.8%  State House District 55 75 of 75 precincts reporting Frank Peterman (i) D 24,252   77.9% Vincent K. Hopkins R 6,163   19.8% Thomas Kilmon L 712   2.3%  State House District 56 58 of 58 precincts reporting Sandra L. Murman (i) R 32,058   76.8% Mark A. Howard L 9,694   23.2%  State House District 57 42 of 42 precincts reporting Faye Culp R 25,009   52.9% Scott Farrell D 20,982   44.4% Tyson Richmond L 1,286   2.7%  State House District 58 48 of 48 precincts reporting Bob Henriquez (i) D 18,207   63.3% Hector Vila R 10,578   36.7%  State House District 59 40 of 40 precincts reporting Arthenia L. Joyner (i) D 20,809   89.2% Rex Curry L 2,513   10.8%  State House District 60 52 of 52 precincts reporting Ed Homan R 22,964   54.7% Sara Romeo (i) D 17,599   41.9% Ryan C. Conley L 1,433   3.4%  State House District 61 63 of 63 precincts reporting Ken D. Littlefield (i) R 29,451   58.9% Pat Burke D 19,190   38.4% Joseph Frank Preta L 1,326   2.7%  U. S. House makeup   Dem GOP Other Won 203 203 203 Leading 2 1 0 Holdovers 0 0 0 trend 205 229 1 Current 210 223 2 Net Change -5 6 -1  U. S. Senate makeup   Dem GOP Other Won 11 11 11 Leading 1 0 0 Holdovers 36 29 1 trend 48 51 1 Current 50 49 1 Net Change -2 2 0  U. S. Governors   Dem GOP Other Won 14 14 14 Leading 0 2 0 Holdovers 10 4 0 trend 24 26 0 Current 21 27 2 Net Change 3 -1 -2 Click here for detailed breakdown and results from other states

Times coverage

Jan. 8, 2003
Historic inaugural focuses on family
Governor's daughter allowed to attend ceremony
Crowd follows mother Bush's lead

Dec. 24, 2002
Graham ponders run for president

Nov. 24, 2002
Party chief fights for job
Miami vote was smooth but pricy

Nov. 14, 2002
Voting process gets high marks
Democratic senator helps GOP fundraiser
State grand jury embraces Crist's hotline idea

Nov. 13, 2002
Saying goodbye brings tear to commissioner's eye
McKay directs state job to IBM
Inquiry explores role of politics in audit delay

Nov. 12, 2002
New District 15 senator to visit

Nov. 11, 2002
Elected, Schenck looks to his pledges
Businesses prepare for smoking law effects
Brown-Waite wins race, loses at home

Nov. 10, 2002
Though smoking ban is imminent, fight rages on
Clark's election flubs draw fire
GOP had election lawyers poised
Brown-Waite won't relax in aftermath of slim win

Nov. 9, 2002
McBride's promise drew money
Party looks to Graham's future
Some people voted twice, elections supervisor says
After 27 years in office, what now?

Nov. 8, 2002
Bush, McBride didn't draw black voters
Narrow race recounted

Nov. 7, 2002
U.S. Congress
• As party falls, Gephardt to step aside
•Foes, allies lay victory at feet of president
• Election signals end to soft money era
• Lame-duck Congress unlikely to do much

State House
• GOP shows strong in governorships, too
•Mondale's defeat is blamed on memorial
•Priorities likely to change with Republicans in control
•Voters opt for caution rather than for ambitious reforms

State
• Democrats grapple with disaster
•Bush to seek new ideas, change
•After defeat, what now for Butterworth?
• Push is on to start pre-K plan early
•Lt. Gov. Brogan wins twice on Election Night
•Republicans sweep into Senate jobs
•Work on smaller classes begins

Citrus
• GOP gives toast to county's role in win
• Here's a tidy wrap-up of a few races
• Character focus gives Fowler edge
• Schools grapple with amendments
• Crystal River rivals escalate name-calling
• Struble and Smith in race for a title

Hernando
•How Brown-Waite ousted Thurman
•Winner touts campaign strategy
•'Attitude problem' leads to downfall
•Confusion blurs independence vote
• 'Everything went by the book' with voting

Hillsborough
•Though class size measure passed state, county said no

Pinellas
•Campaign turns rough, tumble for Bilirakis
•Tarpon's voters will return to the polls
•School Board votes a portent?
•Voting blips too little to alter results

Pasco
• Mosquito controls still up in the air
•Democrats invited punches on way to drubbing

Tampa Bay
•GOP gains boost Tampa's '04 convention bid
•Judge's lower vote tally leaves puzzling question: Why?
Nov. 6, 2002
State
• Bush, decisively
• Attorney General: Crist's win ensures all-GOP Cabinet
• Agriculture Commissioner: Bronson keeps agriculture job
• Voters decide price no object for schools
• Smoking limited, hog crates enlarged
• This election proves mostly smooth sailing
• For McBride faithful, his loss cuts deep
• Adam Smith: Victory for Bush, but with a hitch

U.S. Congress
• 5th Dist.: Brown-Waite ousts Rep. Thurman
• 9th Dist.: Bilirakis extends his winning streak
• GOP icon Harris beats ex-Clinton aide

State House
• Dist. 46: Fiorentino wins decidedly
• State House results

State Senate
• Dist. 3: Argenziano nabs seat from incumbent Mitchell
• Dist. 11: Fasano trounces ex-Pasco sheriff
• Dist. 13: Jones is headed back to capital
• Dist. 16: Sebesta easily wins second term
• Butterworth Senate bid falls short

Citrus
• Glitches are rare as voters fill polls
• County Commission: Fowler wins, says he learned lessons; Bartell prevails
• County Mosquito Control Board: Incumbent Buzby, 2 newcomers win seats
• City of Crystal River: Mayor keeps post; Taylor loses seat; Holmes defeats 2

Hernando
• Election smooth and easy
• School Board: Wiggins beats Galaydick to keep seat on board
• County Commission: Schenck stuns Kingsley; Robinson re-elected
• City of Brooksville: Wever holds off Burnett to keep seat
• Spring Hill Fire and Rescue: Fire district to remain under county control

Hillsborough
• County Commission: Castor pulls ahead of Hart
• County School Board: Bricklemyer, Faliero win runoff
• Temple Terrace City Council: One incumbent and two newcomers win seats
• Auditor referendum headed toward win
• Iorio: 'Smoothest election' ever

Pasco
• County Commission: Mulieri coasts to victory over Cox
• Big turnout, quick turnaround
• Dade City charter change rolls toward passage

Pinellas
• County School Board: Brown's win a Pinellas first
• A new School Board era begins
• County Commission: Morroni captures second term
• Pinellas referendum results
• Beach Communities decide on compensation, spending policy
• Treasure Island: Yes means no; what now?
• New faces are voted into Pinellas Suncoast Fire District
• East Lake Special Fire Control Dist. New election, same result: Bobel wins fire board seat
• Palm Harbor Fire Rescue: Newcomer tops board chief
• Technological glitch taints Pinellas' smooth election

Judiciary
• Circuit 6, Group 26 Judge: Babb cruises to victory in judge race
• Hillsborough County Circuit Judges: Seats go to Cook, Sierra
• Florida Supreme Court: 2 justices headed for retention
• Judiciary: Six judges retain their seats

Nation
• Bucking history, Republicans hold their own
• Democrats gain in governorships
• 3 states reject drug reform measures
• Control of Senate remains undecided
• Computer problems mar vote in Ga., Texas
• Voter News Service abandons exit poll plans
• Without consortium, TV cautious
• 50 States: Election results
• Election notebook

Nov. 5, 2002
Big ballot awaits voters today
Do your homework, says the elections supervisor about the slate that includes 10 constitutional amendments.

Candidates attract money until last minute
The cash flow is led by the $110,000 pulled in by the high-profile congressional race between Karen Thurman and Ginny Brown-Waite.

Be prepared, be patient today
Do your homework, Supervisor Kurt Browning says about the huge ballot with 10 constitutional amendments. That should create long lines despite a heavy pre-election turnout.

All eyes turn to Florida
The president's brother is running, a key congressional race up is for grabs and everyone wonders whether the large turnout will be counted correctly.

In S. Florida, better early than sorry
FORT LAUDERDALE -- A six-week scramble to rebuild South Florida's struggling election system intensified early this morning when hundreds of newly trained poll workers began reporting to their precincts at 4:30 a.m.

Florida wish: a smooth vote
As the nation watches, the state hopes a lengthy ballot and new machines will not lead to another election night debacle.

Transfer makes soft money hard; Florida GOP benefits
WASHINGTON -- The Florida Republican Party received $3.2-million from the National Republican Senatorial Committee during the past two years, even though today's election does not include a Florida Senate race, public records show.

Times columnist Howard Troxler answers reader questions during a special Election Eve 2002 chat on Monday at 1:30 p.m. Click here for more information, or submit your question now.

Nov. 4, 2002
Early voting providing a popular alternative
As voters line up to cast ballots before Tuesday, election officials say they're ready for the big day, which may be slowed by a lengthy ballot.

Race takes on personal issues
Mike Fasano lives with his diabetic mother. That fact is mentioned by his opponent Lee Cannon among the many issues that separate the candidates.

Bewildering ballot measures
The likely approval of the class-size amendment will trigger a scramble for funds to quickly implement it.

Bewildering ballot measures
Voters will likely be confused and slowed by the death penalty item.

Last blitz preaches need to vote
The parade of top political allies -- Giuliani for Bush, Gore for McBride -- continues as candidates hit the home stretch.

Nov. 3, 2002
Behind the suits: Bill McBride
Bill McBride can switch from folksy man of the people to savvy corporate lawyer but getting a good night's sleep can get in the way of his campaign.

Behind the suits: Jeb Bush
Jeb Bush is known for his attention to details, decisivness and working 16-hour days, but he doesn't like criticism or to hear the word "no."

Dyer isn't going down as easily as expected
Once thought to be dead in the water, Buddy Dyer has made gains in his campaign against Charlie Crist.

One last presidential push before Tuesday's showdown
Bill Clinton and George W. Bush rev up the battle for the governor's mansion in Florida.

Early voters run into rush they hoped to avoid
In Clearwater, a sheriff's deputy maintained order within the long lines. In Largo, candy did the trick.

Local referendums
Treasure Island referendum

Auditor proposal gets little attention
The charter amendment to create an office to review operations could mean big changes in the county government.

Challenge to the commission loses some of its early steam
TAMPA -- For followers of local government, a whole new season of As the Hillsborough Commission Turns begins after Tuesday's election.

Race takes on personal issues
Mike Fasano lives with his diabetic mother. That fact is mentioned by his opponent Lee Cannon among the many issues that separate the candidates.

Negativity takes stage in tight race
Though candidates vying for the 5th Congressional District seat pledged to stick to the issues, TV ads and fliers show their camps succumbing to a trend toward attacks.

Supervisor prepares for the main event
Tuesday's election will be the first overseen by Annie Williams, the county's supervisor of elections. But it's a process she knows well.

Voters urged to be ready for Tuesday
INVERNESS -- The signs are posted, the campaign fliers delivered, the political forums wrapped up and soon it will be the voters who take center stage in Election 2002.

Nov. 2, 2002
Candidates go toe to toe with TV ads
TAMPA -- Jeb Bush and Bill McBride are making their final weekend push to turn out supporters, hitting radio and TV airwaves, mailboxes and massive rallies.

Divided on the issues
Gov. Jeb Bush and Bill McBride are at ideological odds over much more than just education.

• Where they stand
  

Memories impel two opponents of smoking
A motel operator and a tobacco scion, advocating passage of Amendment 6, describe how cigarettes destroyed their fathers.

Drugmakers try to steer seniors' votes to GOP
WEST PALM BEACH -- Even at age 90, Art Linkletter's familiar television voice and visage evoke a feeling of trust.

Can South Florida get it right?
As Republican leaders and county officials say they've ensured voting will go well, some Democrats predict disaster and file a lawsuit.

Miami-Dade seeks ballot item defeat
Tax dollars are being spent to torpedo a measure designed to let legislators tinker with how the county is run.

Donors deluge commissioner late in race
Jim Fowler responds to a flurry of giving with a flurry of spending for newspaper ads, marketing campaigns and political fundraisers.

Candidates clash on the issues
Social Security and prescription drug benefits dominate a debate between congressional candidates.

No rancor in council race
Challenger Frankie Burnett just wants to add a voice for South Brooksville to city politics.

Incumbent has big edge in campaign clout
Kai Rush, who has based his campaign on education, finds that competing with Rep. Kim Berfield isn't easy.

Green Party's bid stirs up House race
Kurt Gratzol, who is taking on Rep. John Carassas, hopes to create change, even if he doesn't win.

Rivals for redrawn House 45 seat spar on just a few issues
But they do spar on a few topics, the parkway's extension, for one. Tom Anderson says build it. Kevin Jensen says no way.

School race sets donation record
Tiffany Todd's fundraising efforts surprise some close observers of School Board campaigns.

Buffett plans pro-McBride concert
TAMPA -- Singer Jimmy Buffett will hold a free concert Monday in downtown Tampa to support Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride.

Nov. 1, 2002
McBride fixates on South Florida
The Democrat pulls out the stops in a heated rush to sew up the region he virtually ignored before the primary.

Ballot issue evokes N. Carolina model
Amendment 11, promoted by Sen. Bob Graham, calls for a two-tier university system resembling North Carolina's.

Novice waging a Cinderella campaign
David Nelson's shoestring race is threatening the incumbent agriculture commissioner.

Uneven field keeps race quiet
With money and incumbency on his side, GOP state Rep. Ken Littlefield refuses to debate Democrat Pat Burke.

Flier questions vote
Craig McCart attacks state Rep. Heather Fiorentino. She claims he's distorting her record.

President jumps into hot race
George W. Bush will speak at a rally for Ginny Brown-Waite Saturday in Tampa.

2 styles run for School Board
District 52 candidates pound the pavement
While challenger Chris Eaton diligently knocks on doors, incumbent Rep. Frank Farkas has come to the constituents by foot, mail and television.

District 44 race the same, but different
The candidates are familiar; they battled for the seat in 2000. However, each has taken a new approach in an attempt to win this time around.

District 47 candidate stays in race
A judge says Kevin Ambler did not break the "resign to run law" by not quitting another board.

Candidate has had her own troubles
Jacqui Knight campaigns with promises to "bring integrity and honesty back."

Greeks wooed in race for House
Chuck Kalogianis emphasizes his ethnic roots in opposing U.S. Rep. Mike Bilirakis.

Candidates reply
Robert Schenck, Republican County Commission District 4

State attorney looks into Orange, Osceola ballots
Officials worry that a possible ballot stuffing scheme could tangle up the election process.

Oct. 31, 2002
Police won't back mayor candidate
The Crystal River challenger to the incumbent loses union support after past charges and allegations are revealed.

Candidate reply: Rose Rocco, Republican, County Commission, District 2
In regard to your editorial endorsement of my opponent, I wish to thank you for this opportunity to respond.

Clinton to join race's final push
President Bush will rally for his brother for the 12th time in Florida. In the final stretch, both candidates pull out all the stops to get voters to vote.

Democrat confronts Bush: Set Haitians free
At a campaign appearance in Miami, Gov. Bush is urged to tell the president to end a policy that detains Haitian refugees.

Advice to state: Play bigger role in elections
An audit says the state should help make sure poll workers are trained and voters are educated.

Vendor says Brown-Waite sought work for husband
The Republican candidate for the 5th Congressional District denies the claims and calls them "smear tactics" by the campaign of her opponent, U.S. Rep. Karen Thurman.

GOP checks ships as convention site
Republican National Committee officials get a look at Tampa's plan to use ships as hotels if the city lands the convention.

Oct. 30, 2002
Mayor's race straddles big divide
Candidates for Crystal River's largely symbolic job bring out the fight in opposing camps of town politics.

Young audience grills candidates at forum
Students, most too young to vote, ask tough questions on such topics as the Suncoast Parkway, abortion, Iraq, even pot.

Mailing touts Bush to Jewish voters
A brochure to Jewish residents is seen by some as GOP pandering in a Democratic stronghold.

The Firm: Do the ties bind McBride?
As he tries to go from corporate lawyer to governor, he must wrestle with potential conflicts that come from working for a firm with a wide list of clients.

McCain lauds 1 Bush, raps other
The Arizona senator criticizes President Bush's policies during campaign appearances for the governor.

Man on a mission, but going it alone
Gubernatorial hopeful Bob Kunst, an independent and universally ignored, brings his campaign to Tampa. He predicts an upset.

GOP friend endorses Butterworth
FORT LAUDERDALE -- Outgoing Republican Comptroller Robert Milligan on Tuesday endorsed Democratic Attorney General Bob Butterworth in his race for a state Senate seat, saying no one has more integrity.

Bronson supported by party of his rival
The endorsements by Democrats come as polls show a dead-even race for the agriculture post.

Crist attack ad draws an angry reply from Dyer
Less than a week after chastising his opponent for "going negative," Republican attorney general candidate Charlie Crist launched a television commercial accusing Democratic state Sen. Buddy Dyer of helping criminals and corporations instead of consumers.

Panel says pig proposal backers broke election law
TALLAHASSEE -- Supporters of a proposed constitutional amendment to protect pregnant pigs have been charged with 210 counts of violating Florida elections laws.

Oct. 29, 2002
Political ads use vivid characters
A former Democrat defends Republican Argenziano, and her rival stays on offense with a "bag lady" mailer.

Oversight of district at issue in vote
The Spring Hill Fire Rescue District has grown throughout the decades into a respected unit. But can its leaders be trusted on their own?

Council veterans skewer newcomer in televised debate
Mayoral candidates Bob Buckhorn and Charlie Miranda go after Frank Sanchez.
Opponent attacks Mulieri's record
County Commission candidate Amye Cox says incumbent Pat Mulieri hasn't done enough for the county as a whole. Mulieri says Cox hasn't done research.

Fiorentino: Rival's ads distort record
With the aid of the Democratic Party, Craig McCart attacks the state representative's votes on education bills.

Candidates bask in light of stars
President Bush is coming to the bay area to campaign for his brother. President Clinton has provided help for McBride.

You need not be absent to vote absentee
For those who want to make sure their vote is counted, or for those who seek convenience, early voting is catching on.

Fundraising disparity hinders Sebesta foe
The novice Democrat can't buy much visibility in her race against the veteran GOP state senator.

Candidates run low-tech races
The three men running in state House District 53 are shaking hands, talking to voters and attending meetings.

Around the state
Bush, McBride seek Hispanic voters' support

15 seek Florida Supreme Court seat
The seat for 32 North Florida counties will be left open by Leander Shaw's retirement.

Candidates to get air waves for free
Giving free air timeto political candidates sounds like a pipe dream, so maybe it's appropriate that the idealists at Tampa community radio station WMNF-FM are offering just that.

Oct. 28, 2002
Runoff will end race for judge

Election puts One Florida offstage
As universities' minority enrollment holds steady, the governor's race is dominated by public education issues.

Day's issues precise
FORT LAUDERDALE -- With two new polls showing him maintaining his lead over Bill McBride, Gov. Jeb Bush found time Sunday to rally opposition to his other opponent on the ballot, the class-size amendment.

DCF workers hard to hold on to
Gov. Jeb Bush has shoved money at the problem so more could be hired. Bill McBride says it's not enough.

Caution, accuracy now paramount in projections
An exit polling consortium's new approach is at the heart of media reforms triggered by missteps in 2000.

McBride aims to reassure North Florida Democrats
Despite having a centrist image expected to woo conservative voters, he trails Bush in a poll of the region.

Oct. 27, 2002
Poll: Bush lead holds steady
McBride isn't picking off enough Bush supporters to overtake the incumbent governor.

Support ebbs for class size limit
Amendment 9 is still popular with voters, but concerns about cost could drive it to defeat.

2 Cabinet races too close to call
The attorney general and agriculture commissioner seats could hinge on familiar names and attack ads.

LDR vote has a tense 12 minutes
Stephanie Lavino votes "yes," and then after the issue is clarified, "no." She says she wasn't confused.

Divergent commission foes may end up close
Conventional wisdom says that John Morroni will tramp Dave Buby in the race for District 6 on the Pinellas County Commission.

Lealman fire panel race turns feisty
It's a classic clash: The incumbent defends the commission, while the challenger criticizes both actions and inactions.

It's a race of record and spunk
County Commission District 2: Democratic incumbent Nancy Robinson's priority is water protection. Republican Rose Rocco focuses on the area's economy.

Education, health care focus in District 46
Democrat Craig McCart criticizes Republican incumbent Heather Fiorentino, but she says she stands behind her record.

Growth concerns shape election: County Commission District 2
Incumbent Gary Bartell touts his 12-year record on development issues, while challenger Phillip Mulrain criticizes it.

Growth concerns shape election: County Commission District 4
Opponent Scott Adams says incumbent Jim Fowler has ignored constituents' wishes to gain the favor of developers.

Orlando gays debate whether to support gay GOP candidate
The lawyer running for the state House is fiscally conservative, photogenic and gay.

Oct. 26, 2002
Political allies manage Bush's not-quite blind trust
Some of the governor's money is in a mutual fund that has investments in companies tied to Florida.

The 'Bubba image' can boomerang on McBride
He played football. He was in the Marines. He sounds Southern.

Florida Lottery's ad company is big GOP contributor
When the contract was up for bid, other firms viewed the current holder's tightness with the party and concluded, why bother?

Flattery key weapon in ad war
A McBride ad runs a 1999 video of Bush praising McBride. The Bush camp responds with old quotes of McBride lauding Bush.

Four judges seek voters' thumbs-up
Though appointed by the governor, these 5th District Court of Appeal jurists still need voters' approval to begin another six-year term.

Oct. 25, 2002
Bush won't budge on class size
In Hernando County, the governor repeats his opposition to the amendment. But what if it passes?

Bush cools tone on initiative
He says he will deal with it if voters impose a Board of Governors to oversee 11 universities.

Democrat ads tout McBride in Spanish
The Florida Democratic Party hit the airwaves in Spanish on Thursday, with TV and radio spots for gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride targeting the Hispanic communities of Central Florida.

Cheney comes to praise security and to politick
TAMPA -- Vice President Dick Cheney swept through Tampa on Thursday to make a direct appeal for a Republican in a tight congressional race and a thinly veiled pitch for his boss' brother.

Candidacy not legal, says suit
TAMPA -- An unlikely pairing of two Republicans and two Democrats filed a lawsuit Thursday to have Republican House District 47 candidate Kevin Ambler kicked off the ballot.

Governor's visit emphasizes taxes and education
Jeb Bush finds a receptive audience in Spring Hill. More than 600 people show up to hear him speak.

State Senate race gets personal
The Argenziano-Mitchell race in District 3 is as much about personality as it is about the candidates' views on the issues.

Oct. 24, 2002
Bush to pay a visit to Spring Hill community
SPRING HILL -- Florida Gov. Jeb Bush this afternoon will make Timber Pines, one of Hernando County's largest and most politically active voting blocs, the latest stop on his re-election campaign.

Early voters get in line to press touch screens
It may take more time to vote early than on Election Day, but 1,280 Pasco voters have already cast their ballots.

Tax cuts merit a mere whisper
In his last debate with challenger Bill McBride, Gov. Jeb Bush emphasizes his largesse, not his billions in tax cuts.

Activist running without a party
Bob Kunst is on the ballot, but his campaign has only about $16,000 to compete with Bush and McBride.

Peer into Pinellas Precinct's crystal ball
Precinct 610 in Clearwater generally votes as the state does. So which way are they leaning on the governor's race?

Oct. 23, 2002
Against two rivals, ex-sheriff rides tall in state House race
Charlie Dean has a walloping advantage in campaign donations, which his opponents say tie him to special interests.

Fowler softens attack on challenger
In a forum that drew numerous candidates, the commissioner denied Scott Adams' past was an issue. He said he just wanted to show their different backgrounds.

Political Junkie: Mayoral candidate misses TECO streetcar opening
"A gaggle of city officials showed up Saturday for the grand opening of the TECO electric streetcar. Missing from the crowd was mayoral candidate Bob Buckhorn.

Challenge of embargo not a sure loss
A Cuban-American candidate is doing just that in South Florida.

Bush's poise holds off McBride's final charge
ORLANDO -- For 18 months Bill McBride has been pining to debate Jeb Bush one-on-one. Over and over, the first-time candidate predicted he would win the comparison between a governor born of privilege and the folksy ex-Marine vowing to fix Florida schools.

Candidates abandon cordiality
Gov. Jeb Bush says Bill McBride is fuzzy on details. McBride says Bush will say anything to win re-election.

McBride ad attempts to parry Bush attack
In hopes of dulling the edge of a scathing Republican ad suggesting his spending ideas could require an income tax, Bill McBride has launched a new TV spot accusing Gov. Jeb Bush of using "scare tactics and fake numbers" against him.

Class size measure's foes air TV ad
Opponents paint a scary picture of schools if Amendment 9 is successful at the polls.

Oct. 22, 2002
Debate format poses big risks
Meet the Press' moderator and a looser format may stir up the candidates' final debate tonight.

The power of family politics
President Bush pulls out all the stops to help his brother in a tight race in Florida. He may reap the rewards in 2004.

Barbara Bush joins son on Florida campaign trail
"He will not let you down," the former first lady says of her son Jeb, campaigning for re-election.

Candidates bringing in last-minute contributions
Local candidates receive donations, some more than others, that they can use in their final days of campaigning.

Protest singles out candidate
The Florida Police Benevolent Association says Sen. Ginny Brown-Waite's support of private prisons shows she is soft on crime.

Oct. 21, 2002
Citrus Slices
Candidate turns comic at forum

Candidates to answer voters in open forum
Office seekers will respond to videotaped questions from Hernando County residents tonight in a chamber-sponsored public forum.

Sen. Lieberman gets behind McBride bid
The senator stumped for the Democratic gubernatorial challenger to an audience of mostly Jewish senior citizens.

Spin patrol: Candidates rely on polls more than they like to say
After the McBride campaign released an internal poll last week showing their guy tied with Bush, the Republicans countered with their own poll showing Bush ahead by 9 points.

Bush brings campaign to local churches
Gov. Jeb Bush speaks to congregations on his opposition to abortion, his belief in prayer and desire to strengthen families.

Oct. 20, 2002
School spending up, state share not
Spending on education has climbed under Gov. Bush, but the state's portion has slid. Local taxpayers take up the slack.

Bush evokes specter of taxes
The governor's ad suggests Bill McBride would try to impose a state income tax. McBride's camp calls the ad a "scare tactic."

Candidate's postcard paints a rosy picture
"I am humbled," writes Ken Hagan, in a card sent last week to absentee voters, "by the support of over 13,000 primary election voters who chose me to be their nominee to the Board of Hillsborough County Commissioners for District 2."

Policy chasm divides two candidates
Robert Wiggins' and Stephen Galaydick's ideas on the budget and strategic plan couldn't be any more different.

Adams deflects criticism of past
In the District 4 commission race, incumbent Jim Fowler's references to Scott Adams' rap sheet seem to backfire.

In political war, signs often victims
In the dead of night, thieves and vandals wreak havoc on campaign signs, but rarely affect the race.

Oct. 19, 2002
State election to get federal aid
Florida will get $100,000 and government civil rights attorneys to monitor the polls Nov. 5.

Brown-Waite's Congress bid gets aid from Dick Cheney
At a Republican luncheon in Tampa, the vice president will try to bolster state Sen. Ginny Brown-Waite's efforts to win U.S. Rep. Karen Thurman's seat.

District 46 event focus is education
The three candidates offer their takes on the key issues, including the class size amendment and teacher pay.

Oct. 18, 2002
Bush, McBride turn to big guns for help
While the president visits Florida to campaign for his younger brother, top-ranking Democrats are providing fundraising muscle for challenger McBride.

Manatee groups say Bush welshed
TALLAHASSEE- Two years ago, Gov. Jeb Bush thrilled environmentalists when he promised to beef up protection for manatees. He even called the endangered species "my favorite mammal."

It's no more Mr. Nice Guy in attorney general debate
In an earlier meeting, Buddy Dyer and Charlie Crist were pointedly polite. This time they were in attack mode.

Election law complaint filed against candidate
CRYSTAL RIVER -- The husband of City Council member Kitty Ebert this week filed an election law complaint against mayoral candidate Ray Wallace. Scott Ebert notified the Florida Elections Commission that Wallace sent absentee voters a letter that was not identified as a paid political advertisement and didn't explain who paid for it or who approved it.

Fowler assails opponent's past
LECANTO -- Audience members couldn't believe their ears.

Mulieri, Cox see eye to eye on some key issues
A debate shows similar views on a sports facility and adult businesses. They differ on a penny tax.

Spot check
Editor's Note: To help voters evaluate political ads, Times reporters review and analyze content.

Gov. Jeb Bush signs are latest to turn up stolen
Campaign signs for Gov. Jeb Bush are disappearing and so is Republican activist Bill Bunting's patience.

Oct. 17, 2002
Thurman far ahead in fundraising contest
She raises three times as much and spends about twice as much as GOP opponent Brown-Waite.

Political candidates answer to Robinson students
The night's main theme was education, as student leaders brought issues to candidates for local and state offices.

Election official: Vote early if you can
Elections officials are letting voters know they can cast ballots now, in an effort to avoid delays on election day.

McBride details his drug plan
Bill McBride's plan involves a having a buyers' group negotiate with drug companies for lower prescription prices.

Check, law on billboards coincide
A longtime GOP supporter gave $25,000 to the party shortly before the governor signed off on the controversial legislation.

Candidates begin duel of the TV ads
Bill McBride opens with a spot critical of Jeb Bush, who replied with an ad he had ready.

Parties ponder who to help out
WASHINGTON -- Democrats are putting Bill Clinton's economic record up against George W. Bush's in a blitz of TV and radio ads, calls and fliers while the president has lent his voice to tape-recorded phone calls urging Americans to vote Republican.

Democrats scramble to cut fundraising gap with GOP
WASHINGTON -- The Democratic National Committee began October with just $5-million to spend on the election -- and that only after rerouting money that was supposed to pay for its new headquarters. Its Republican counterpart started the month with $30-million on hand.

Oct. 16, 2002
Thurman to delay filing sign charges
Karen Thurman says she will wait until after the Nov. 5 election to decide whether to file charges in a campaign sign incident.

With cameras away, Bush and McBride don't play nice
A radio debate spurs festering criticisms, and unlike a televised debate three weeks ago, the candidates respond to the attacks.

Watchdogs will monitor election in Miami-Dade
Some say the monitors will restore voter confidence, but others think they will make the county appear incapable.

McBride's first negative TV ad targets Florida education
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride launched his first TV ad criticizing Gov. Jeb Bush on Tuesday, pointing to Florida's poor showing in national education rankings.

Oct. 15, 2002
East, central Pasco precincts need more workers for polls
DADE CITY -- With a week to go before training begins, Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Kurt Browning said he still could use more poll workers, but he predicted his agency will be adequately staffed for November's elections.

Brochure for Bush prompts AARP disclaimer
A flier associating the governor and the organization causes AARP to state that it does not endorse candidates.

Poll shows Bush lead getting slim
The latest independent survey in the race for governor has incumbent Jeb Bush holding a lead of 3 percentage points over Democratic challenger Bill McBride. The Zogby poll of 500 likely voters for MSNBC was conducted Oct. 8-10, and has a margin of error of 4.5 percentage points.

Oct. 14, 2002
Negatives dog Buckhorn campaign
Polls show a slight lead for Bob Buckhorn in the mayoral race, but he also leads in disapproval ratings.

Nature Coast is 2002 election hot spot
The 5th Congressional District could affect federal government control.

Dyer bills a break for client of firm
The Democratic attorney general candidate says he did not intend to help Georgia-Pacific with his failed pollution cleanup legislation.

An unnatural silence
A cement plant near a state park seems to put Gov. Jeb Bush in a vulnerable spot. But Bill McBride, whose former law firm was involved, hasn't pressed the issue.

Oct. 13, 2002
Behind McBride vs. Bush is battle of media consultants
The images you see are carefully plotted by Washington professionals.

McBride lays out environmental agenda
The Democratic candidate pledges to reverse laws that environmentalists opposed.

Oct. 12, 2002
Clock ticks for college initiative
The ballot measure would alter control of state universities. It's been eclipsed by other education issues.

Oct. 11, 2002
Stolen signs stir up race for District 5
Sen. Ginny Brown-Waite's husband and an employee's husband are caught making off with Karen Thurman signs.

McBride remark led to apology
Lawyers who heard say it was an insensitive attempt at humor that fell flat, and dropped jaws, about a decade ago.

Environmental groups assail Bush on Glades
A coalition demands tighter rules for Everglades restoration and says its efforts have been rebuffed.

Sanchez's war chest nearly sets a record
The mayoral candidate raises $508,000 and says he needs it to compete with better-known opponents.

Running mates draw the line
The lieutenant governor candidates had a hard time finding the good in each other in Thursday's debate.

Teachers union leader criticizes Bush pay proposal
Gov. Bush's suggested minimum teacher salary would interfere with collective bargaining, she says.

Bush set to attend Dade City barbecue
DADE CITY -- First it was Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Janet Reno, then her counterpart Bill McBride, now Republican Gov. Jeb Bush is bringing the governor's race to town.

Oct. 10, 2002
In backstretch, U.S. House race tightens
Democrat Karen Thurman battles for her District 5 seat in one of the most competitive and closely watched U.S. races.

Fire district takes bold campaign approach
State elections codes can't stop Spring Hill Fire Rescue District from using signs and stickers to campaign for independence from the county.

Running mates debate likely a clash of wit
Lt. Gov. Frank Brogan and state Sen. Tom Rossin's debate tonight may prove livelier than Bush/McBride.

Bush leads McBride in TV time
The governor's fundraising advantage is spilling over to the tube. In the local market, he has spent five times more than McBride.

Political Junkie: County Web site's votehart link takes Hart by surprise
Until Wednesday, a person would have typed www.votehart.com on the computer and the Hillsborough County Web site biography of Commissioner Chris Hart would have popped up.

Oct. 9, 2002
Nature activists endorse McBride
Three environmental groups support the Democratic candidate. His platform is thin on the issue, says a spokesman, but preferable to Jeb Bush's.

Campaigns belie tight budget
Neither Gov. Jeb Bush nor Bill McBride have addressed a projected $1-billion shortfall.

Does this picture speak 10,000 words?
LOS ANGELES -- The head of a law enforcement group backing Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Simon released two photos Tuesday that he said show Democratic Gov. Gray Davis illegally accepting a $10,000 campaign contribution in the state Capitol.

Oct. 8, 2002
Thurman and rival lock horns
Ginny Brown-Waite says a vote against a drug bill shows the Democrat is "against seniors." Rep. Karen Thurman calls the bill a "sham."

Voters stop by, sign up and move on
Poll workers outside the Tampa library try one last time to lure voters for Nov. 5. They snag a few.

McBride courts South Florida
In Reno's stomping ground, the Democrat tries to win over the voting blocs he lost to her in the primary.

2 sides of class size issue see drop-off
With many absorbed in the governor's race and support for class size limits high, fundraising has slowed to a crawl.

Union claims 4 on elections panel biased
The FEA argues that the panelists' GOP ties disqualify them from hearing its McBride-related case.

Oct. 7, 2002
Voter registration deadline is today
BROOKSVILLE -- Today is the deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 5 general election.

Sale chief issue in races for commission
Challengers for District 2 and 4 attack the commission's actions before the sale of Florida Water, and all tout ideas on gaining control of the Spring Hill facility.

Assured 2 in bid for open seat
Dennis Jones has raised $311,945. Joanna Kennedy, $40,173. Both believe they will win the newly vacated spot.

Political campaigns laying down the law
Firefighters' and law enforcers' endorsements are a badge of honor for many candidates.

Wealthy candidates give Democrats hope
Three successful trial lawyers have millions to spend as they challenge Republicans for congressional seats.

Rejected reporter scoops governor's commentary
In politics, what goes around comes around. Just ask Todd Harris, the Bush campaign spokesman and designated media handler.

Close race for new seat a surprise
DAYTONA BEACH -- Harry Jacobs is amused to hear people refer to the 24th Congressional District as "the Feeney seat."

District redrawing may have made race tougher for GOP
HEATHROW -- Riding up Interstate 4 in a Buick LeSabre, Rep. John Mica points out the monuments to his 10-year tenure in Congress -- a bridge, new lanes and several interchanges.

Oct. 6, 2002
McBride launches attacks; Bush recruits black voters
As Bush won applause from a group of black voters, McBride criticized the governor's unguarded comments.

Money can buy political access
Groups interested in state policy or contracts are pouring money into parties' coffers ahead of elections next month.

Candidate defends stormy past
County Commission hopeful Ron Dyser has faced dozens of lawsuits, bankruptcy and a burned home.

Political Junkie: Doing homework or digging for dirt on political rival?
Mayoral candidate Frank Sanchez says voters are tired of "attack-dog politics."

Working at polls: Long hours, low pay, national profile
But long hours, low pay, boredom and ridicule don't deter those workers who bring high ideals to the polls.

Oct. 5, 2002
Bush gets heat for unguarded remarks
Democrats have seized on talk of "devious plans" and policy reversal in attacking the governor.

E-mail on candidate: invitation or order?
Instructions to state employees on Democratic candidate Buddy Dyer's visit to the Tampa offices of the state attorney general raise eyebrows.

Governor still undecided about smoking amendment
As he considers his position, Jeb Bush hails new statistics showing reduced smoking and drug use among youths.

Hopefuls stretch residency rule
For commission candidates, where one lives, where one sleeps and where one runs for office aren't necessarily the same place.

Frank turns attack into opportunity
Commission hopeful Brian Blair criticizes Pat Frank at the Tiger Bay Club, but his comments give her some ammunition of her own.

Oct. 4, 2002
Charges let loose in race for House
Ginny Brown-Waite calls Rep. Karen Thurman antifamily. The incumbent calls her opponent's plan irresponsible.

Governor's Rilya quip criticized
In a meeting with lawmakers, Bush implied that the missing girl's caregivers are lesbians.

Oct. 3, 2002
Castor launches an ethics attack
TAMPA -- Kathy Castor, a Democratic candidate for the District 1 Hillsborough Commission seat, will present an ethics proposal today aimed at challenger Chris Hart.

McBride quietly gets rolling
Some question Democrat Bill McBride's tactics after a dramatic primary, but he says he's sticking to his game plan.

Gore: Bush 'racing in the wrong direction' on economy
WASHINGTON -- Al Gore said Wednesday that President Bush is lost in an economic wilderness, "racing in the wrong direction" while critical domestic issues are drowned out by international affairs in the final weeks of the midterm campaign.

Oct. 2, 2002
County voter rolls pass 100,000
Hernando County has become the latest Florida county to surpass 100,000 registered voters, with its count of 100,544 voters completed Tuesday.

Political group could make election exciting
Two variances that were denied are the impetus for WE VOTE, a group recently formed to be a factor in Madeira Beach elections.

Libertarians run to build a brand name
Jason A. Downs wants voters in Hillsborough and Polk counties to make him the first Libertarian ever elected to the Florida House of Representatives.

McBride backers think bias helped Bush in debate
They float suspicions that the governor was fed the questions in advance and was given extra rebuttal time.

Teams hit road for vote drive
The Supervisor of Elections Office has formed registration teams to fan out in the county and help voters get ready for Nov. 5.

Oct. 1, 2002
McBride courts black electorate
TAMPA -- A smiling Bill McBride stood at the altar of an African-American church Monday, the lone white face in the group, hoping a picture would be worth a few thousand votes.

Police unions jump on McBride
The state PBA group repeats its support for Bush and blasts his foe's fixation on education.

Tampa residents give mayor big thumbs up
But they aren't willing to let Mayor Dick Greco influence who they elect as their next mayor in March, a St. Petersburg Times survey shows.

Candidate sues over 'polling' phone calls
A Democrat running for the state House claims a poll is used as a ruse to denigrate him.

Officials vow primary hassles unlikely to recur
MIAMI -- Elections officials assured a Miami-Dade County task force Monday that a new emphasis on training and troubleshooting would safeguard the Nov. 5 general election from problems that led to the county's botched primary.

Sept. 30, 2002
Voters favor class size amendment
An amendment proposing pre-K classes for 4-year-olds is also drawing strong support.

Bush flights not reported as gifts
TALLAHASSEE -- Corporate jets have flown Gov. Jeb Bush around Florida but neither he nor the state GOP have reported the $222,000 worth of travel as gifts to his campaign, a newspaper reported Sunday.

Reno's loss cancels show, triggering call for refunds
If you sent Janet Reno $500 for an Elton John fundraiser, say Goodbye Yellow Brick Road to your money.

Sept. 29, 2002
McBride closes gap, but Bush still strong
POLL: BUSH 50%, McBRIDE 44%: Voters said they trust Gov. Jeb Bush more than challenger Bill McBride.

Bush avoids election blame
A new poll shows only 16 percent of Floridians say the governor is at fault for the primary glitches, but 69 percent think the problems will be resolved by Nov. 5.

In Cabinet races, upsets shaping up
Democrat Buddy Dyer has never run for statewide office before, and most voters don't know who he is, yet a new poll puts him dead even with Republican Charlie Crist in the race for attorney general.

Counties batten down for election
Broward, Miami-Dade officials go into crisis mode to prepare for Nov. 5 vote.

Hopefuls hustle, despite the odds
Independent candidates running for the District 5 seat don't have a chance, according to an analyst. Yet they keep on trucking.

Democrats see Green in House contest
Some Democrats don't especially like the Green Party, even though this nationwide party advocates environmentalism and social justice.

Commissioner Myers in St. Pete Beach calls it a day
The City Commission must appoint someone for the rest of his term. That person could sway land development regulations.

Sept. 28, 2002
They keep coming back to education
The first debate between Bush and McBride returns again and again to that issue.

Teachers union key to McBride ad
The union was the top donor to a fund backing a TV ad that helped the Democrat.

An oink or two clutter the ballot
At the risk of offending a pregnant pig or two, I plan to vote against Amendment 10 on Nov. 5.

Tampa mayor's race a dead heat
With five months to go, Frank Sanchez pulls within striking distance of two more well-known candidates, a new poll shows.

Sept. 27, 2002
Bush, McBride debate tonight
TALLAHASSEE -- With polls showing the race for governor tightening, voters tonight get their first chance to see Republican Gov. Jeb Bush and Democratic challenger Bill McBride on the same stage.

Election panel subpoenas McBride, union chief over ad
The Florida Elections Commission on Tuesday issued subpoenas to Bill McBride, the Democratic candidate for governor, and the president of the state teachers union to force them to answer questions about an ad the union aired on McBride's behalf.

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.

Candidates hurl insults, labels in District 7 debate
In a face-off scheduled to air two dozen times, Commissioner Pat Frank and Brian Blair accuse each other of playing to donors' interests.

Sept. 26, 2002
Hundreds laid off on Bush's watch
The governor criticizes layoffs at Bill McBride's law firm, but at least 2,300 have lost state jobs since Jeb Bush took office.

GOP: McBride TV spot is illegal
Republicans contend that the union-backed ad amounts to an endorsement and violates campaign laws.

Bush touts plan for teacher certification
The governor's latest education plan, to increase the number of board-certified teachers, would cost $160-million.

Sept. 25, 2002
Change chips away disclosure
Now parties don't have to report contributions until Nov. 1. Voters probably won't see the numbers until after the election.

PBS affiliate will air debate
WEDU-TV steps in after a CBS affiliate opts for network programming over a Bush-McBride debate.

Ad takes new tack to boost McBride
The Democratic candidate for governor seeks to inspire voters with his successes and his vision for the future.

Elections chief's role in Broward diminished
After problems Sept. 10 at polls in her county, Miriam Oliphant transfers duties to an office administrator.

Sept. 22, 2002
Bush vs. McBride offers clear choice
The Democratic primary was a study in similarities. The general election is a tale of stark philosophical contrasts.

McBride a challenge, Bush says at Tampa picnic
TAMPA -- Gov. Jeb Bush, stumping for votes Saturday in the home county of Democratic challenger Bill McBride, said he expects the race will go down to the wire.

Barbs fly in commission race, this time for District 3 seat
The next smash and bash Hillsborough Commission race may turn out to be the battle for District 3, representing much of east and central Tampa.

Debates may grow too focused
Observers fear the fight over the new library and the old police property could draw attention from other matters in the upcoming election.

Major campaign donor stares back in mirror
Running for office is a sacrifice. Everyone will tell you that.

Sept. 21, 2002
Alex Sink releases her tax returns
The wife of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride relents after her husband wins his party's nomination.

Sheriff defends Crist political ad despite policy
A longstanding department order restricts members' political activities. The sheriff responds that the recent campaign ad didn't violate that order.

District 5 candidates start race in full sprint
The major candidates for Florida's most competitive congressional seat each got a boost as the campaign's first week rolled to a close.

Democrats must look for pay dirt in Palatka
It was an unlikely setting for a civics lesson.

Sept. 20, 2002
Former opponents stump for unity
Bill McBride, Janet Reno and Daryl Jones show a united front for the race against Republican Gov. Jeb Bush.

Broward official apologizes for voting mess
Ending a standoff, Broward County's election supervisor accepted the blame Thursday for problems with last week's primary and agreed to use up to 1,000 county workers to avoid further problems in the Nov. 5 general election.

Sanchez shindig sports luxury cars, champagne
TAMPA -- Mayoral candidate Frank Sanchez gets the nod for the fanciest fundraisers.

Sept. 19, 2002
The race goes national
Presidential hopefuls are quick to lend support and help to Bill McBride.

Florida appeals to D.C. for help with elections
TALLAHASSEE -- Amid relentless criticism from Democrats who blame Gov. Jeb Bush for last week's South Florida voting problems, Bush and the state's top elections official issued a cry for help from the federal government Wednesday.

Voters okay 8 of 9 tax increases
The results belie the common political wisdom that Floridians will not support higher taxes.

County stocks up on voting machines
Hillsborough will lease-purchase 400 more touch screen machines as it prepares for the general election in November.

Sept. 18, 2002
Reno concedes: the race begins
Janet Reno says she will support Bill McBride and work to correct Florida's voting problems. McBride wastes no time hitting the campaign trail.

Reforms working in many counties
Obscured by the failings of last week's primary election are stories in places like Gadsden County, home to a Panhandle town called Sawdust, where Supervisor of Elections Shirley Knight recently used a state grant of $137,844.62 to stunning effect.

Rep. Carassas is ready to serve once more
John Carassas says his two years in public office, his background as an assistant city attorney and his willingness to listen to his constituents make him a good candidate for returning to the Florida House of Representatives.

Green Party's Gratzol calls for 'social justice'
In his 55 years, Kurt Gratzol has been a Republican, a soldier and a salesman.

Democrats regroup, take aim at Crist
Three defeated attorney general candidates line up with nominee Buddy Dyer.

Rossin brings experience, but draws tepid response
TALLAHASSEE -- Democrat Bill McBride today will introduce running mate Tom Rossin of West Palm Beach in a series of appearances across Florida aimed at appealing to the moderate suburbanites who can be decisive in statewide elections.

Sept. 17, 2002
McBride pick may be South Florida senator
Palm Beach County's Tom Rossin appears to be top choice as running mate, dashing hopes McBride would tap a woman.

McBride campaign entwines with teachers union
The unusual interlacing of his campaign and the teachers group is assailed by the governor as an "umbilical cord."

Gill to help lead Democrats
TAMPA -- Henry Gill, a 63-year-old retired Navy captain, was chosen Monday as the interim head of the Hillsborough County Democratic Party.

Poll staffers' age becomes an issue
MIAMI -- Eighty-year-old precinct worker Bill McKamy is getting too old for this. Not the elections -- just the fingerpointing.

Sept. 16, 2002
Old hand to face novice Nov. 5
As Gus Bilirakis shoots for his third term in state office, the soft-spoke Republican faces a challenge from a political newcomer who does not live in the district but plans to move there if elected.

Reno lawyer: no recount suit
The Reno campaign lawyer says the gubernatorial candidate won't take the election to court, unless her vote tally somehow surpasses Bill McBride's.

Sept. 15, 2002
Ongoing counts hobble McBride
The political neophyte can't get out of the starting blocks in his race with Gov. Jeb Bush because of voting questions.

Norman: No more negative tactics
After a bruising GOP primary, the county commissioner vows to stick to the issues.

Congress' spotlight focuses on Suncoast
Karen Thurman and Ginny Brown-Waite carry their parties' hopes into the race for the 5th Congressional District.

Primaries over, now fun begins
COUNTY RACES: Incumbents and challengers in all areas of the ballot say they offer strong platforms and expect to get the word out to the electorate.

Sept. 14, 2002
Contrasts sharp in School Board race
When Mary Brown and Tiffany Todd face off in November for the final spot open on the Pinellas School Board, voters will choose between two candidates who are nothing alike.

Sept. 13, 2002
Dyer, Crist turn smiles into swipes at Tiger Bay
The two nominees for state attorney general discuss qualifications and civil rights. But they flavor their comments with personal jabs at the club meeting.

McBride declares victory
He spins his campaign forward, though Janet Reno refuses to concede. Elections officials agree to review thousands of voting machines.

No single factor cost Reno the election
MIAMI -- The Democratic nomination for governor was Janet Reno's to lose, and she did, for lots of reasons, with dysfunctional democracy in South Florida providing the exclamation mark for a star-crossed campaign.

Sept. 12, 2002
Recount gives Fowler GOP spot in commission race
The hand recount in the District 4 GOP primary adds three votes for the incumbent and one more for Joyce Valentino.

Brown-Waite fires early shot against Thurman
The victor of the GOP primary heads straight into battle with her main Democratic rival.

Long day at the polls a break for late voters
The supervisor of elections says polling places opened on time, reported no problems and got fast results.

Primary turnout is high
BROOKSVILLE -- More than 26 percent of Hernando County's registered voters turned out for Tuesday's primary election.

Unpopular as they might be, incumbents win
During the primary season, people readily complained about the commissioners, but at the polls, they voted for them.

Browning stays above the fray during election
Amid the cacophony of the polls, supervisor Kurt Browning expects perfection to keep the ballots moving.

Cannon has work left to do, primary shows
District 11 candidate Lee Cannon has got a tough road ahead in his run against Mike Fasano.

Both candidates are from Pinellas
The two top candidates in House District 45, which is about half in Pasco, are both from Pinellas, but observers say that's no reason for concern.

Young judge wins one race; another undecided
John Renke III scores an upset over Declan Mansfield. Linda Babb and George H. Brown face a runoff in November.

Vote tips toward McBride
TAMPA -- Bill McBride appeared poised to win the Democratic gubernatorial nomination Wednesday, though the election mess kept anyone from declaring a winner.

Criticized after first test, supervisor remains upbeat
FORT LAUDERDALE -- With the polls long closed and thousands of votes still uncounted, Broward Supervisor of Elections Miriam Oliphant sounded pleased with her performance early Wednesday.

Votes missing; observers hissing
MIAMI -- A new wave of election problems in South Florida on Wednesday kept elections officials laboring for a second straight night to retrieve votes from touch screen machines that had been expected to spit out results in record time.

Rule deleting some election runoffs faces review
Some lawmakers like runoffs. Others say they're a waste of money. This year they might have influenced races.

His years of experience unable to prevent fiasco
MIAMI -- David Leahy has managed to weather a few flawed elections in his 20 years as Miami-Dade County's supervisor of elections.

Dyer first among four for attorney general
He lays claim to the Democratic nomination for attorney general, but one opponent awaits the final tally.

Incumbents fare well in races for legislative seats
TALLAHASSEE -- All but one of the incumbents facing primary challenges claimed wins in legislative races Tuesday in an election that pitted several lawmakers against each other.

Outcome of primaries influences GOP leader
TALLAHASSEE -- Miami state Rep. Gaston Cantens on Wednesday pulled out of the race to be state House speaker in 2004, leaving Rep. Allen Bense of Panama City the only contender for the post if Republicans keep their large majority in the House.

Florida's few races among the keys to House's future
Florida may have only a few competitive congressional races in November, but the state could help decide whether Republicans or Democrats control the House of Representatives, party officials said after a primary election that produced no surprises.

Sept. 11, 2002

Election results

Citrus
While some polling places around the state experienced bugaboos, the county's problems were few and far between.

Dean will face Carr in November
Former Citrus County Sheriff Charles Dean confirmed his status as the front-runner in the general election with an easy victory in the GOP primary for House District 43.

County Commission results seesaw for 2
INVERNESS -- Citrus County School Board member Pat Deutschman coasted to her second term Tuesday over political newcomer Mark Wilson, and County Commissioner Jim Fowler appeared close to clearing the first hurdle toward a third term.

Hernando
Duty motivates them, voters say
Many stress civic values and an American right before casting their ballots in primaries.

Brown-Waite set to battle Thurman
State Sen. Ginny Brown-Waite of Brooksville cruised to victory Tuesday in the Republican primary in the 5th congressional District.

Nicholson re-elected; Schenck advances
BROOKSVILLE -- School Board member Sandra Nicholson cruised to an easy win and fellow board member Robert Wiggins survived to go to a November showdown with the man he upset four years ago.

Balloting extension prolongs the wait
INVERNESS -- For months, Michael Takac has wondered whether he could pull off one of the more difficult accomplishments in Florida politics: defeating a sitting judge.

Hillsborough
Smooth vote has Iorio gleeful
Only a few minor problems develop with new voting equipment as it is inaugurated in Hillsborough.

4 commissioners hold leads
Jim Norman, Pat Frank and Chris Hart all cruise toward wins.

Storms with big lead over Waldron
TAMPA -- It looked early Wednesday as though Hillsborough County's most outspoken commissioner will return to the board for another two years.

Forthright Storms fends off challenger
Outspoken incumbent Ronda Storms held an apparently solid lead over challenger Arlene Waldron in the Hillsborough County Commission District 4 race late Tuesday. Waldron attacked Storms' leadership, saying her sometimes controversial comments polarized people.

House races finish: some nasty, close
CARROLLWOOD -- Northdale lawyer Kevin Ambler and Forest Hills marketing executive Jill Collins were running neck and neck Tuesday night in the Republican House 47 primary, a race that turned increasingly bitter toward the end of the campaign.

Culp eases ahead in State House District 57 race
TAMPA -- Faye Culp took a big step toward a political comeback Tuesday, easing ahead of her two opponents in the Republican race for House District 57.

State House 47 primaries too close to call
CARROLLWOOD -- Northdale lawyer Kevin Ambler and Forest Hills marketing executive Jill Collins were running neck and neck early Wednesday in the Republican primary for the state House 47 seat.

Hillsborough judges fight off challengers; runoffs likely in other races
TAMPA -- The only two Hillsborough judges to draw opposition appeared headed toward easy victories early Wednesday..

Norman ahead of Easterling; Castor cruises
TAMPA -- After one of the season's most bitterly-fought campaigns, Hillsborough Commissioner Jim Norman appeared early Wednesday to have fended off fellow Republican board member Stacey Easterling.

Pinellas
Pinellas pushes GOP's Anderson toward a win
Tom Anderson appeared to have won the Republican primary for House of Representatives District 45 in a close race divided between Pasco and Pinellas counties.

Incumbent Farkas seizes commanding lead
ST. PETERSBURG -- Frank Farkas, a two-term state House representative, appeared poised to take an easy victory Tuesday in the District 52 Republican primary.
Overall in Pinellas, precincts see few glitches and setbacks
Some poll workers had trouble turning on the voting machines, a few machines didn't work, and one precinct shut down for a short time.

2 School Board members lose
Max Gessner is defeated, and Janice Starling fails to make runoff

Close race appears over for Pasco-Pinellas circuit judgeship
John Renke III appeared to have won a narrow victory Tuesday night over Declan Mansfield in the race for a Pasco-Pinellas circuit judgeship.

Anderson takes Republican primary for state House District 45
Relying on his Pinellas stronghold, Tom Anderson won the Republican primary for state House of Representatives District 45, which is nearly evenly divided in population among Pasco and Pinellas counties.

Waters far ahead of 2 challengers
Incumbent Leslie Waters was easily defeating two challengers Tuesday night in the Republican primary for state House District 51.

2 face runoff; maybe more
TAMPA -- Voters appeared ready to send two newcomers to a runoff and left an incumbent watching late returns Tuesday in two separate Hillsborough County School Board races.

Incumbent Cobb and lawyer Allan hold their leads
Jack St. Arnold and Linda Allan, two Pinellas civil attorneys, appeared headed to victory Tuesday night in the race for Pinellas-Pasco circuit judgeships.


Pasco
Fighting Murphy's Law
Amid glitches and an order to keep polls open longer, the supervisor of elections finds time to joke on election day.

Cannon gets Democrats' nod
Former Pasco County Sheriff Lee Cannon led political newcomer Joseph "Steve" Mattingly in the Democratic primary for state Senate District 11 at press time Tuesday night. With nearly all precincts reporting, Cannon was headed for victory.

Voters keep two incumbents
Pasco County voters returned two incumbents to their posts Tuesday night, re-electing Steve Simon to the County Commission and Cathi Martin to the School Board.

New Port Richey gives budget the first okay
NEW PORT RICHEY -- New Port Richey City Council has put its initial stamp of approval on the $26.4-million budget for the 2002-03 fiscal year.

School Board okays $583-million budget
That's 8 percent higher than last year. Taxpayers won't see much change, however, because of higher property values.

State
Two years later, system still broken
Florida's rebuilt election system collapsed Tuesday in South Florida, tainting a close Democratic primary for governor and reviving images of the state that can't vote straight.

Another Florida election in doubt
TAMPA -- Bill McBride, a Tampa lawyer virtually unknown by most Floridians just six months ago, clung to a healthy but uncertain lead for the Democratic nomination for governor early today, hoping for a historic upset over Janet Reno that would pit him against Republican Gov. Jeb Bush in November.

Crist wins GOP race for attorney general
TALLAHASSEE -- Republican Charlie Crist easily won his party's attorney general primary Tuesday, but Democrats Buddy Dyer and Scott Maddox were in a dead heat in their party's primary three hours after the polls had closed.

Bungling the first big test
1. BAY COUNTY -- Minor ballot jams in optical scanners. Some machines delivered to wrong polling places.

Nelson edges out Barley, Michaud
Environmental activist Mary Barley, who was targeted for defeat by the citrus industry, was trailing school librarian David Nelson on Tuesday in the Democratic primary for state agriculture commissioner.

Around the state: Harris nominated; gay rights repeal bid trails
Former Florida Secretary of State Katherine Harris, the sweetheart of the GOP but a Democratic target because of her role in Florida's 2000 recount that won the presidency for George W. Bush, won nomination for Congress Tuesday in Florida's 13th District.

Sept. 10, 2002

Campaign ends on a new day
Three Democrats make a final push in South Florida.

It's a whole new ball game with touch screen balloting.
TAMPA -- Today, before you go to the church or recreational center where you usually vote, stop a moment.

Governor stumps in Central Florida
A day before the primary, the governor touts his plan's success during campaign stops.

State House candidate answers opponent's flier
Charles Dean complains that a Republican primary foe in District 43 has misrepresented him as a liberal turncoat.

Elections chief: Vote today
Susan Gill reminds voters that some races will be decided by the primary election. She estimates 1 in 4 will vote.

Party leader reports verbal assault at poll
Police are called to an elections office after a couple are reported to have sharply criticized Democratic state committeewoman Cindy Cino.

Candidates aplenty in county
Voters will have their say in a wide variety of elections today -- from county commissioners to House members.

Sept. 9, 2002
GOP ad dresses down senator
In response, state Sen. Richard Mitchell defends his vote against tax-free shopping holidays as necessary because of budget shortfalls.

D-day's here for touch screen
The first countywide election with the newfangled touch screen machines is Tuesday. Leaders anticipate a smooth operation.

Styles define governor's race
Janet Reno's down-home approach goes head to head with Bill McBride's campaign machine.

Fired fundraiser gives Graham campaign fits
Attorneys for U.S. Sen. Bob Graham have had enough. Robin Gibson, general counsel for a Graham committee supporting a constitutional amendment on the November ballot, has asked a California arbitrator to issue a gag order for Robert Kaplan, president of a company Graham hired to raise money for the campaign.

Close election will test Florida
Changes to the state's voting system after the 2000 presidential debacle will be put to the test in Tuesday's primary.

Sept. 8, 2002
Jostling for top lawyer spills onto TV screen
Of the seven candidates for state attorney general, four try to bob above the rest with ads.

His foes say Bush may be beatable
Florida's Democrats are energized by their close primary campaign for governor and are likely to head into the November election unified.

Democrats go on defense for Barley
The candidate for agriculture commissioner, who switched parties, appears with prominent Democrats to respond to attacks.

Commission candidate denies shifting stance
For weeks, Hillsborough Commissioner Ronda Storms has been accusing her Republican opponent, Arlene Waldron, of waffling on the issues to suit the bent of her audience.

In School Board race, a fresh face and an old hand square off
INVERNESS -- For voters choosing a District 3 School Board member on Tuesday, the decision comes down to one issue.

Parties predict hearty turnout
Officials are anticipating a high voter turnout because of the interest generated by the governor's race.

In School Board race, signs now a prickly subject
District 4 candidates suspect one another and supporters of pilfering campaign signs.

GOP House candidates vie for attention of voters
Going into the last weekend of the House District 45 campaign, Tom Anderson and John Legg's strategies haven't changed all that much: campaign on the other guy's turf.

The good and the bad of this year's primary
Good news about voting on Tuesday: no chads.

Sept. 7, 2002
Judging by primary, this could get ugly
If Tampa lawyer Bill McBride is able to defeat former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno on Tuesday, he should send a thank-you note to Gov. Jeb Bush.

Cost talk chips at class size support
Opponents are relying on the cost, estimated at $27.5-billion, to further draw voters away from the popular amendment.

Bush rolls tape of McBride missteps
Jeb Bush, combating Bill McBride's surge in the polls, points out inconsistencies as the primary approaches.

Passing the Bar a bear for some
Charlie Crist has taken a beating over his Bar exam fumbles. Guess what? He's not the only attorney general candidate with test troubles.

McBride's wife keeps pay private
TAMPA -- For at least a decade, the jointly filed tax returns of Bill McBride and his wife, Alex Sink, chronicled their lucrative rise in law and banking: from combined incomes of nearly $500,000 in 1993 to $1-million in 1996 to $3.1-million in 1999.

Cabinet race still anyone's to grab
TALLAHASSEE -- You know David Nelson, that blue-eyed, pink-cheeked astronaut who represents Florida in the United States Senate?

Gessner counters opponent's claim
Businessman Don Gessner, up against fellow Republican state Sen. Ginny Brown-Waite in the 5th Congressional District primary, says her recent attacks on him are false.

Republican attacks his rival's party allegiance
Michael "Joey" White mails out a flier that says ex-Democrat Charles Dean carries some leftover political baggage.

Miffed candidate yanks Times ads
After Sandra Nicholson's ad ran three times with a party indicator, which is improper in her nonpartisan School Board race, she pulled them.

Ethics complaint filed against Trubia
Janis Lentz, president of the West Pasco Democratic Club, lodges a complaint with the state about the candidate.

2 board races turn testy
Thirteen seek Pinellas School Board seats, and most are running low-key campaigns. Bt not all.

Storms criticizes Latvala for aiding rival
Pinellas Commissioner Susan Latvala defends her actions, saying Hillsborough Commissioner Ronda Storms isn't the best candidate.

Flier puts partisan tilt on a nonpartisan race
A flier identifies Republican School Board candidates, a practice that skirts a constitutional amendment.

Sept. 6, 2002
Candidates take war to air
TV sets will teem with political ads all weekend as gubernatorial candidates take their last shots before primary day.

Spot check
Editor's note: To help voters evaluate political ads, Times reporters review and analyze content.

GOP leaders scold own candidate
The state GOP chairman and House speaker-designate say Cary Burns is too negative.

'Bad medicine' flier in District 57 race is called misleading
The candidate calls the accusation of malpractice based on a 20-year-old suit "dirty."

Candidate used county computer
The School Board hopeful, also a county utilities worker, used his office computer to write campaign documents.

Can newcomer spoil veteran's race hopes?
Republican Ginny Brown-Waite must deal with fresh face Don Gessner. One will move on to face Democrat Karen Thurman.

Sept. 5, 2002
Top candidates not on ballot
WASHINGTON -- There is plenty to distinguish the top candidates from each other in Washington's primary election for mayor. The incumbent is a career bureaucrat seeking a second term. His rival is a minister trying to show he has appeal beyond his flock -- with help from the popular but controversial former mayor.

WEDU-Ch. 3 to air interviews with Democratic governor candidates
WEDU-Ch. 3 will feature unedited, half-hour interviews with the three Democratic candidates for governor at 8 tonight.

Reno, McBride focus on base
With the race a dead heat, the two top Democrats for governor court party regulars.

Candidates make their cases
Four Democrats and three Republican candidates vow crackdowns on all sorts of crimes if elected as the people's lawyer.

Prized senior vote more fragmented
While regional differences have sapped the traditional senior voting bloc, most still agree education is the most important election issue.

New law lets you vote early for any reason
If you simply want to get it over with now, you can vote by touch screen at an elections office.

Sept. 4, 2002

McBride surges as Reno keeps pace
A new poll indicates the Tampa lawyer has closed the gap with the former attorney general, who remains upbeat.

Attacks on Crist have tie to Republican
A former state GOP official is listed as registered agent for a group that has leveled mail and Web-based attacks on Charlie Crist.

Platform key is minority contracts
Vincent K. Hopkins says he is running for state House District 55 because he wants to push for more economic programs designed to help minorities.

Bush is accused of racial politics
He responds that his critics play the race card by faulting his remarks on busing and the class size ballot measure.

Sept. 3, 2002
Finish line near for Reno, McBride
With a week before the primary election, polls bolster McBride's campaign. Reno, though, thinks a large voter turnout is her key to victory.

Sept. 2, 2002
Reno silent as lead narrows
LAKELAND -- Suddenly, Janet Reno was facing questions she never hoped to hear.

Democrats sparing with Senate race cash
Joseph "Steve" Mattingly wants help to spread the word about his campaign. But the state Democratic Party prefers his well known rival.

Sept. 1, 2002
McBride cuts gap with Reno
A new Times poll shows the Democratic candidates for governor in a statistical tie.

Be it beltway or backwoods, folksy image is no facade
Despite her Washington years, the ex-attorney general has fiercely protected her integrity. Yet she's no shoo-in as a gubernatorial candidate.

McBride's strategy was a year in the making
The inevitable question came up as Bill McBride stood before a couple dozen Democrats in New Port Richey last October: Nobody's heard of you, a gray-haired man told him. How can you possibly beat Janet Reno in the primary?

Miami-Dade vote on gay rights in U.S. spotlight
MIAMI -- Supporters and opponents of gay rights around the country will keep a close watch on Miami-Dade County in coming days. On Sept. 10, voters in the county will decide whether to scrap an ordinance that protects gays and lesbians from discrimination.

Ballot item may be 'roadblock' to development
The worrisome Treasure Island issue: More than half of voters would need to okay height/density changes.

Commissioner's campaign trash circulates widely
The recycling bin for the Hillsborough County Commission offices just happens to be right next to the copier. And there, at the top of the bin, needing no digging to be observed, were dozens of stuffed campaign envelopes -- from the Chris Hart for mayor campaign.

Silent race ready for some noise
Former Commissioner David "Hap" Clark added a spark when he entered the District 4 race, but has struggled. Incumbent Steve Simon expects that to change.

Opening the door when politics comes knocking
Sheriff Bob White reneged on his promise to take the politics out of the Pasco Sheriff's Office.

Trio aiming to balance images
The primary race in County Commission District 4 has even the most faithful Republican stalwarts split.

Precinct changes could confuse
Those who vote on Election Day must do so at their assigned polling place. The county has changed its voting locations significantly.

August 31, 2002

High court hears arguments over ballot initiatives
It must decide, and soon, whether a new law violates the Constitution in requiring price tags on every citizen initiative.

August 30, 2002

Candidate replies
On Sept. 10 Republican voters must decide if they are happy with the leadership of the Democratic incumbent in District 4. If they are, then there is no point in reading further.

Politics from your couch
You can hear the candidates discuss the issues from the comfort of your living room. Forums, conducted by the League of Women Voters, are shown on Public Access Television, according to the following schedule. Time-Warner customers who live within the Tampa city limits can turn to Channel 19 or 20; in unincorporated Hillsborough, watch Channel 20.

Voter precinct information and ID cards are in the mail
Pinellas County voters should watch their mailboxes. Voter ID cards and postcards notifying you where to vote should arrive soon, if they haven't already.

Republican attack ads may be bolstering McBride
"People are remembering the name McBride," one observer says, questioning the GOP tactic.

Citrus interests wage war on Barley
The environmental activist and Democratic agriculture candidate is labeled a threat to the "growers' survival."

Foe says Crist uses office to campaign
TALLAHASSEE -- Jack Sobel was surprised to open a letter from Education Commissioner Charlie Crist this month.

Do your homework, ad tells voters
The secretary of state asks residents to check their address and polling place and to brush up on touch screen voting.

Family name helps candidate connect
Supporters of Tiffany Todd's parents have contributed almost half of her campaign funds.

August 29, 2002

Candidate makes doorsteps his forum
Schoolteacher Robert Schenck is using shoe leather in place of campaign ads to get his message out in a run for County Commission.

Political notebook
BROOKSVILLE -- The Good Government League will host its 2002 Candidate Face-Off from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 5 in the County Commission chambers, Hernando County Government Center, 20 N Main St.

Reno, McBride mine support on friendly turf
The candidates toil in Broward County, a Democratic stronghold and a key to their hopes.

August 28, 2002

Candidates make their pitch to voters at forum
The event provides a platform for candidates for offices ranging from the School Board to Congress.

Candidate forum set for Thursday
SPRING HILL -- The Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce will host a Candidates Forum at 6 p.m. Thursday in Springstead Theatre, 3300 Mariner Blvd.

Chamber rates commission hopefuls
County incumbents who got bad marks on the scorecard are upset and say they'll check on whether the Chamber of Commerce violated election laws.

Fine over election is final word, board says
The state Elections Commission denies a rehearing for Mary Laurance, who wants to explain why a campaign finance report arrived late.

Candidates attack Bush, not each other
PALM BEACH GARDENS -- In the lone debate before the Sept. 10 primary election, the Democratic Party's three candidates for governor spoke Tuesday night with one voice.

Barley swears oath authentic, ending lawsuit
Agriculture candidate Mary Barley says in a deposition she signed a qualifying oath.

Reno wins debate because of lead, not responses
She projected little energy, rarely smiled and stumbled over her words a few times. But Janet Reno won the only televised debate in the Democratic gubernatorial primary by default.

Excerpts from Democratic debate
The following are excerpts from Tuesday's gubernatorial debate in Palm Beach Gardens between former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, Tampa lawyer Bill McBride and state Sen. Daryl Jones of Miami:

August 27, 2002

Board hopeful piles up fines
School Board candidate Jim Polk has to pay $795 for missing deadlines to file financial reports. He says it's not that important.

Candidate claims disclosure form was lost in mail
Len Trubia didn't file a financial form after his appointment to the Housing Authority.

Candidate reaches in pockets
David "Hap" Clark has put up most of the $17,402 he's collected so far in his campaign for the District 4 commission seat.

Debate is last shot at shining
The Democrats' debate might help Janet Reno solidify her lead. It could help Bill McBride and Daryl Jones chip it away.

Reno runs party-funded ads
Janet Reno's decision to run her first TV ads before the primary hints she's less sure of her lead over Bill McBride.

Bush supports guaranteed prekindergarten classes
The governor praises the ballot initiative, saying it gives districts flexibility in serving 4-year-olds.

August 26, 2002

Crist uses deputies for ad, with approval of sheriff
Bob White pledged to take politics out of his office. But he lent deputies to the attorney general candidate.

Fundraiser's timing rankles McBride
For a guy struggling to avoid getting walked over by Janet Reno in the Democratic primary, Bill McBride has been mighty gentle in his criticisms.

August 25, 2002

Election could be first thing to not go well for McBride
The Tampa lawyer has always written his own scripts and wants this one to end with a victory for the underdog.

August 24, 2002

Candidate must face questions about oath
TALLAHASSEE -- Environmentalist Mary L. Barley will have to answer questions about the loyalty oath submitted with her paperwork when she became a Democratic candidate for state agriculture commissioner.

Republicans continue swinging at McBride
Lt. Gov. Frank Brogan reaches back more than a decade to criticize Bill McBride's law firm management.

Election panel dismisses complaint
The Florida Elections Commission has dismissed a complaint against five Pinellas-Pasco judicial candidates accused of improperly sharing the cost of a mailing to absentee voters.

Times Recommends: Cannon for state Senate
Democrat Lee Cannon hinted at a run for the state Senate two years ago, the very evening he lost his Pasco sheriff's seat to an unknown Republican backed heavily by Rep. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey.

August 23, 2002

Candidate deals with response to rape claim
SPRING HILL -- With less than three weeks until primary election day, County Commission candidate Bob Kanner had hoped to be talking about roads, taxes and economic development.

Leading Tampa Democrat dies
Hillsborough party chairman Mike Scionti suffered a heart attack.

Politics from your couch
You can hear the candidates discuss the issues from the comfort of your living room. Forums, conducted by the League of Women Voters, are shown on Public Access Television, according to the following schedule. Time-Warner customers who live within the Tampa city limits can turn to Channel 19 or 20; in unincorporated Hillsborough, watch Channel 20.

TIMES RECOMMENDS: For a better state House
Charles S. Dean: House District 43, Republicans

Not a stickler for detail
PORT ST. LUCIE -- Mayoral candidate Jim Fielding went ahead and used 250 campaign signs that misspelled his name in large letters, "Vote Jim FEILDING."

Bush agrees to 3 debates with Democratic opponent
ORLANDO -- Gov. Jeb Bush has agreed to participate in three debates with his to-be-determined Democratic challenger, his campaign said Thursday.

August 22, 2002

Clark target of an ethics complaint
He's accused of failing to disclose assets on an elections form. The case could take a year.

Democrat McCart to join House race
NEW PORT RICHEY -- Republican Heather Fiorentino will have a Democratic opponent for the state House District 46 seat, after all.

August 21, 2002

Political notebook
Reps. Barr, McKinney lose in Ga. primary

Question persists: Did she sign oath?
An elections clerk raises additional questions about paperwork filed on behalf of a statewide candidate.

Path cleared for sales tax item on ballot
A judge rejects challenges to a measure for a panel to review and eliminate sales tax exemptions.

McBride ad strikes back at Bush
The Democratic candidate's counterattack is against a spot criticizing how he ran his law firm.

August 20, 2002

Reno takes her campaign to the pivotal I-4 corridor
The Democrat makes her pitch, without specifics, for health care, smaller class sizes, teacher pay, and fiscal responsibility.

GOP turns tough ad on McBride
Bill McBride may be trailing well behind Janet Reno in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, but the state Republican Party isn't taking him for granted.

Lone candidate ready for board
When Don Bates officially resigns, a surprised Lou Miele will become the District 1 member of the School Board.

August 19, 2002

Media to use new system to call elections
NEW YORK -- Voter News Service, an elections consortium of six media organizations, is developing and testing a new system to count votes that will be running for November's midterm elections, VNS officials say.

Unofficial campaign office touts 3
The volunteers have ties to the Democratic Executive Committee, which bothers one candidate.

August 18, 2002

Gubernatorial campaign a trail blazer
The state senator has broken down many barriers, but his plans for change look unlikely to make him Florida's first black governor.

Defining the issues
Often on common ground, the Democratic candidates for governor diverge on taxes, guns.

Judge candidates willingly take hot seat
A U.S. Supreme Court ruling trickles down to Pasco County as they answer questions on political as well as legal issues.

Nursing home industry is a force in race
CRYSTAL RIVER -- If you flipped through your network or cable television channels last week, chances are you saw a commercial touting state Sen. Richard Mitchell's voting record on tax breaks for small businesses.

Sullivan foes: boaters with memories
As he runs again for County Commission, former Commissioner Paul Sullivan is trying to recast himself as a more affable sort, willing to listen and willing to learn.

August 17, 2002

'Embarrassed' candidate leaves race
Don Bates won't run for School Board because of his 1994 arrest on a sex charge, which was later dropped.

Dockery enters Senate with ease
When she ran for the state House in 1996, the contest was heated. She ran unopposed this time.

Parks director will run for School Board seat
Pat Fagan, a county employee for 31 years, says he wants to be more involved in schools.

Bush takes his campaign into friendly territory
STARKE -- The chartered bus rolling through the heart of Florida's prison belt Friday looked like the kind that transports rock stars.

Bush takes risk fighting class-size amendment
The teachers who had lunch at the mansion with Gov. Jeb Bush the other day heard him expound on a variety of subjects, from Steve Spurrier's offense to the quality of local television news.

Spot check
Editor's note: To help voters evaluate political ads, Times reporters review and analyze content.

Agriculture race detours into court
A Democratic candidate and environmentalist fights accusations that an election document is forged.

Death penalty issue to remain on ballot
TALLAHASSEE -- A Leon County judge denied a bid by 15 elections supervisors Friday to remove a 714-word constitutional amendment on the death penalty from the November ballot because of its length.

August 16, 2002

Candidate assumes populist stance
Bemoaning the role of special interests in politics, Republican William Stieh pledges to work for the little guys.

Issue of race raised in election
A black judge says her white opponent, who says she's campaigning along racial lines, is misreading her print advertisement.

Commission hopeful assails rival's finances
Paul Sullivan says Bob Kanner's bankruptcy filing nine years ago makes him a poor choice in the primary.

Panel finds candidate's mistake not intentional
Kitty Ebert's ads weren't documented correctly. The state elections commission decides she didn't do it on purpose.

Candidate's letter ruffles some feathers
School Board hopeful Don Bates solicits support from potential donors, writing, "the God guys will win again."

Supporters rally behind tax reform amendment
Citing sales tax inequities, a bipartisan group is raising money to support the ballot proposal.

Foe sues to remove Harris from ballot
TALLAHASSEE -- Katherine Harris' opponent in the Republican primary for a Central Florida congressional seat sued Thursday to have the former secretary of state kicked off the ballot.

Reno, McBride criticize Bush on education
Democratic gubernatorial candidates Bill McBride and Janet Reno criticized Gov. Jeb Bush Wednesday, saying he has failed to improve Florida's education system.

August 14, 2002

Candidate beat fraud charge
A decade ago, Ken Hagan was one of many Met Life insurance agents to face such charges. His charge was dismissed.

Pair of absentee voters notice botched ballots
"It shouldn't have happened," the Pinellas elections supervisor says. Indeed, says one senior who remains skeptical.

August 14, 2002

Fasano reaps week of windfall
If the November election brings a Republican state senator to western Hernando County, last week will have been a turning point. That is, if the race for Senate District 11 was ever in doubt.

GOP opponents come out swinging
The Republican race for Congress gets muddy as Don Gessner rips Ginny Brown-Waite's voting record.

Political billboard pulled in Pinellas
An ad criticizing a candidate strikes some billboard managers as too much.

Foes claim tax review measure will deceive voters
TALLAHASSEE -- Opponents of a ballot measure that would give a legislative panel the power to wipe out sales tax exemptions argued Tuesday that it shouldn't go to voters because it is misleading.

August 13, 2002

A 714-word ballot question: Will voters just skip over it?
Election officials ask a judge to yank the death penalty issue off the ballot, fearing voters will skip that and 10 other amendment proposals.

Challenger fills own campaign war chest
David "Hap" Clark, who is challenging Steve Simon, deposits a $5,050 check into his own campaign account.

Sullivan focuses on student retention, graduation
Matthew Patrick Sullivan Sr. is running for the Pinellas County School Board for one reason.

August 12, 2002

Pro-business ads on TV to tout three candidates
They have money to burn, and starting today, TV viewers will see political ads touting the pro-business credentials of three candidates -- one of them a Democrat -- in hotly contested Senate races from Citrus County to Sarasota. They are so-called issue advocacy ads that, by law, cannot directly favor the election of a particular candidate.

August 11, 2002

Florida voters back in fishbowl
Observers from the NAACP and ACLU and advocates for the disabled will watch Florida's first big attempt to get it right.

As primary nears, Crist keeps his cool
The Republican frontrunner for attorney general shrugs off his critics and keeps the ads coming.

Voting machines are sophisticated; are we?
Every time I see one of those fancy new voting machines Pinellas County purchased with $14-million of my money and yours, one word sneaks into my mind.

August 10, 2002

Black School Board candidates pose tough choices
Three black candidates offer a chance at historic change. But will two facing each another split the vote?

Reno holds off on using party funds in primary
TALLAHASSEE -- For the first time in their race for the Democratic nomination for governor, Janet Reno last month raised more money than Bill McBride.

Primary brings out the party switchers
In just the past week, 76 voters shifted to the Republican Party and 54 to the Democratic Party.

Special primary set for House 46
The governor okays a Sept. 24 election, setting the stage for a new Democratic contender to enter the House race.

August 9, 2002

Convention in president's hands
They munched on paella, drove past Nieman Marcus and admired the gulf view from the Don CeSar.

Fun, not funds, top topic as GOP tour ends
ST. PETE BEACH -- After they inspected their last luxury hotel and sampled their final piece of gourmet chocolate, the Republicans who toured Tampa Bay this week talked a lot about the area's nice hotels, easy roads and top-notch airport.

Handful of area educators jump from the GOP
The public switch shows dissatisfaction with the governor and support for Bill McBride.

McBride slams Bush record on education
Resources, not testing, are the answer to failing schools, the Democratic candidate for governor proclaims.

Lunch with Bush a GOP primer
Jeb Bush extols his record on diversity and affirmative action to African-Americans. Some are impressed; others aren't.

This time the mayor will make the meeting
On this much we can agree: Mayor Dick Greco is not an ordinary politician.

Voters' duty critical, officials say
Changes to election laws mean voters must be alert and proactive, Florida's new secretary of state says.

August 8, 2002

Bush endorsements rile primary opponents
In a break from tradition, the governor gives early support to some incumbent state legislators.

District 11 candidate closed off by boundary
Dunedin's Janet Henderson learns her home is just outside the the redrawn district and withdraws. Mike Fasano will get the GOP nomination.

Geography eliminates candidate for Senate
Dunedin's Janet Henderson learns her home is outside the district. Mike Fasano will get the GOP nomination.

GOP: Where are the hotels?
Tampa wows the Republican site selection committee, but questions popped up about the distance from the Ice Palace to most of the area's hotels.

Video greetings shadow GOP
The huge TV screen greets those considering the bay area for their party's 2004 convention.

August 7, 2002

Dingell claims win in Mich. primary
Democratic Rep. John Dingell, whose 47 years in Congress make him the longest-serving member of the House, declared victory Tuesday after a seesaw Michigan primary against the more liberal Rep. Lynn Rivers. Voters there and in Kansas also chose candidates for open governor's seats.

Plan for regents makes it to ballot
Sen. Bob Graham led an effort for an amendment to restore the Board of Regents, but keep the new university board of trustees.

Dropping one word fixes ballot
After the word "pair" is eliminated from the gubernatorial primary ballot, the Democratic Party drops its lawsuit.

Inclusion in debate shines light on Jones' campaign
TALLAHASSEE -- Mired in the shadow of his better-known and better-organized rivals, Daryl Jones has been the odd man out in the field of Democrats running for governor. But a decision allowing Jones to participate in a statewide televised debate could alter the dynamics of the race.

August 6, 2002

Official begins clarification of ballot wording
Minutes into office, Secretary of State Jim Smith responds to criticism of the Democratic primary ballot with a quick fix and a meeting on alternate wording.

Group sued by Bush disbands
TALLAHASSEE -- Gov. Jeb Bush thanked a Republican lawmaker Monday for disbanding a South Florida fundraising organization that used Bush's name to launch personal attacks against Janet Reno.

Foes in legislative race scuffle over pay raise
Ex-Pasco Sheriff Lee Cannon, Democrat, doesn't wait for the primary to attack the GOP's Mike Fasano.

August 5, 2002

With Gore, Democrats get same old tune
WASHINGTON -- The whole world, it seems to me, can be divided into two kinds of people -- those who admit their mistakes and those who don't.

Her calendar was full, but with what?
Wondering where Katherine Harris was during the chaotic final week to qualify for the 2002 election? Don't count on her public schedule to tell you much.

August 4, 2002

Scramble to find, train poll workers goes down to wire
Elections officials are racing to ready new machines and hire and prepare poll workers.

Dress rehearsal for voters puts new devices onstage
Final results on a mock vote take longer than expected, but voters like the new touch screens.

McBride's law firm often foe to his allies
The gubernatorial candidate works for a firm with many corporate clients that oppose unions and environmentalists.

Ballot wording might change
Elections officials wonder whether it's too late to clarify language on absentee ballots.

Norman challenges opponent to debate
Political Junkie is an occasional column on this year's election season.

Cheney becomes GOP's $12-million man for '02
WASHINGTON -- Seldom seen in Washington, Dick Cheney has become the Republican Party's high-ranking, frequent-flying fundraiser. From Fayetteville to Fargo to Fort Lauderdale, the vice president has quietly hauled in more than $12-million for candidates in 44 stops so far this year.

Politicians invited to dine on opossum
Candidates get folksy with voters at the annual Possum Festival in a small town that admires the tree dwellers.

August 3, 2002

What other campaign surprises await us?
What fun. Now we can talk about our very own seven dwarfs.

New secretary of state is an old hand
Jim Smith, who's held the job before and shepherded election reforms, replaces Harris.

10,000 amendment petition signatures lost
Replacing them by Tuesday is crucial to getting a higher education proposal on the Nov. 5 ballot.

Ballot wording sparks worries
Critics are concerned that the wording on the primary ballot will lead to more voter confusion.

Wife's salary outstrips McBride's
The bank executive in 1999 earned five times the income of her husband, a gubernatorial candidate.

Peterman to stress economic vitality
The Democrat says he will seek financial and technical help for small businesses.

August 2, 2002

GOP complaint against McBride ad dismissed
TALLAHASSEE -- A state Republican Party complaint over an ad promoting Bill McBride, Democratic candidate for governor, has been dismissed.

Elton John to play Broward for Reno donors
This time, Elton John's yellow brick road leads to South Florida, and Janet Reno hopes the bricks are gold.

August 1, 2002

Reno's income up, Bush's down, returns indicate
TALLAHASSEE -- Former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno's income skyrocketed after leaving government, while Gov. Jeb Bush's has fallen since taking office, according to tax returns released by the candidates this week.

McBride vows to increase DCF funds
The candidate says he would raise pay, cut caseloads and hire more counselors.

July 31, 2002

Conventions may pay, but not in cash
Cities that have hosted the national political gatherings talk of benefits in publicity and future bookings for meetings.

July 30, 2002

Attorney general candidate fires back at Republican leader
TALLAHASSEE -- Republican attorney general candidate Tom Warner took exception Monday to party boss Al Cardenas, who criticized Warner for saying another GOP candidate is unqualified.

The science of splat [Photo by Tristan Maher] This UF researcher scrapes together a world of bug knowledge from windshields and buses.

State senate stint would pad pension
If he wins a Senate seat, Bob Butterworth would take a pay cut. But his pension would still grow.

July 29, 2002

Butterworth's Senate bid triggers scrutiny by GOP
Attorney General Bob Butterworth's decision to run for a state Senate seat in South Florida is still under review by Republicans.

July 28, 2002

Candidates make most of extension
Twenty more qualify to run after Gov. Bush extends the deadline. A plane crash Friday had destroyed several candidates' paperwork.

July 27, 2002

Deadline past, races take form
Amid the many sparsely populated races, candidates for a few local and state elections will have a fight ahead.

Qualified hopefuls prepare for races
Though some candidates have won already because they lack opponents, most gear up for the round of campaigning that follows Friday's deadline to qualify for races.

Ballot filled for fall elections
As the qualifying season ends, the campaign season takes over, with the first tests at the polls in September.

Candidate backs 'green' issues
A developer who favors a balance of growth and the environment enters the race for a House seat.

Missed deadline ends bid for School Board
NEW PORT RICHEY -- Jack Mariano wanted a seat on the Pasco County School Board. He collected more than 2,562 signatures to get on the ballot. He raised $2,800, took out political advertisements and even met with the superintendent to learn about the budget.

Senate districts not fair, judge says
A lawsuit claimed the division of Marion County into several districts disenfranchised residents. One district includes much of Citrus.

Deadline past, primary lists take shape
Some are automatically elected; others find out who they'll face Sept. 10. as the time expires for hopefuls to qualify.

July 26, 2002

Commissioner drops out of mayoral race
Chris Hart needs to file by noon today if he instead decides to run for the District 1 county commission seat.

Butterworth turns sights on a run for state Senate
The attorney general's decision comes as a surprise. He had been urged to run for another Cabinet post and had considered a judgeship.

July 25, 2002

Senate candidates focus on education during forum
Four running for the new District 11 seat disagree on what to do for public schools and on how to pay for it.

Missing form foils candidate
A required affidavit isn't on file, but the commission hopeful still can qualify by paying a $4,829.40 fee.

Reno dispenses remedy for high prescription costs
SOUTH PASADENA -- No matter how much the candidates for governor talk about prescription drug coverage, Doris Fortner doubts her friends will be satisfied.

McBride qualifies for primary run
The Democrat focuses on the governor, but his test comes against Janet Reno.

July 24, 2002

GOP ad bashes Bush rivals McBride, Reno
It says the Democratic challengers to Gov. Jeb Bush dodge the issues, but they've taken stands on two the ad cites.

Son files papers for Bush candidacy
George P. Bush, 26, a law student, vouches for his dad's ability to serve as governor.

July 23, 2002

Easterling shrugs off commission tiff on out-of-district appearances
Last month, Hillsborough Commissioner Ronda Storms accused an unnamed commissioner -- wink, wink, Stacey Easterling -- of appearing at civic groups outside her district, staff members in tow. Storms said government employees were being pressed into service at campaign-tinged events.

Cruise group rewards GOP
The cruise industry shows its appreciation for Gov. Bush's support by becoming the party's largest contributor.

Reno becomes first to qualify to run
As she files to formally enter the governor's race, she lists $628,000 income from speaking fees.

July 22, 2002

Party leaders cool to Clark's run
Hap Clark's entering the County Commission race against a fellow Democrat has many wishing he hadn't.

Democrats put GOP on grill over corporate fraud malaise
State party members hope to use public irritation over corporate fraud as a campaign issue this fall.

July 21, 2002

Gephardt energizes Democrats to rout Bush
The House leader tells state party activists that corporate scandals trace to 1980s deregulation.

Polling tactics miff candidate, her supporters
"Push polling," a technique in which a pollster leads voters to a conclusion about a candidate, is reported by state Rep. Nancy Argenziano.

July 20, 2002

For 6 House incumbents, it's a shoo-in
Most incumbents face either no or lightly rated opposition, but one race in a redrawn North Suncoast district will bear watching.

Green Party to set its agenda today
At a gathering today in Clearwater, the party will discuss the state's death penalty law and whether the party should support a gubernatorial candidate.

Petition effort fails to win place on ballot
TAMPA -- U.S. Rep. Jim Davis was surprised to learn Friday that he had automatically won re-election to Congress.

July 19, 2002

Attorney general race may grow
Consumer advocate Walter Dartland says he's drumming up support.

GOP: Teachers' McBride ad illegal
The Florida Republican Party Thursday accused the state's teachers union of paying for an illegal ad for gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride and asked television stations to stop running it.

July 18, 2002

Spring Hill man enters congressional race
SPRING HILL -- H. David Werder of Spring Hill is seeking the local congressional seat as a write-in candidate. Werder made his announcement with a flourish earlier this week, presenting himself at the Hernando County elections office carrying a homemade 7-foot pencil.

Third candidate files for Mosquito Control Board
CRYSTAL RIVER -- A third candidate is seeking Seat 2 on the Mosquito Control Board. Gerald L. Kelley of Crystal River filed campaign paperwork Wednesday. He joins Greg Biance and Henry Hemrick in the race. The board has three members. They control a district created to fight mosquitoes in Citrus. Members serve four-year terms.

July 17, 2002

Political gathering raises a fuss, heightens ill will
Don Gessner's opponent, Ginny Brown-Waite, says the function may have violated campaign law.

Maverick Clark files for return to office
David "Hap" Clark is trying to regain a seat on the County Commission, this time the one currently occupied by Steve Simon.

Finally, a mayoral candidate appears
Nelson Rivera has lived in Land O'Lakes a year. No other candidates have stepped up for the honorary job.

A four-legged run for Congress
A Sarasota man tries to register his dog to run against Katherine Harris. That idea won't hunt, officials say.

July 16, 2002

Voting machine executive's conspiracy case is dismissed
Louisiana prosecutors plan to appeal the case against Phil Foster, who was to manage Pinellas' contract with the Sequoia Voting System.

Reno agrees to Democratic debate, just once
Opponents within the party say the front-runner will cheat voters of ample time to compare them before the primary.

Early entries begin political races
TALLAHASSEE -- U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw, a Jacksonville Republican whose new congressional district extends into eastern Leon County, was the first candidate to qualify Monday as Florida's 2002 political campaign formally began.

July 15, 2002

Dunedin's ranks thin out as state races begin
The city expects to fill two commissioner's seats and that of the mayor as candidates for legislative positions put in their resignations.

Race for new office devoid of Democrats
No one has stepped forward to challenge Republican Tom Gallagher in his bid to become Florida's chief financial officer.

July 14, 2002

County elections overshadow schools
Candidates for School Board will oversee a larger budget, but those running for County Commission are taking in more contributions.

Lack of Democrats livens District 4 race
As Jim Fowler defends his commission seat, voters weigh three GOP hopefuls and an independent.

Fasano holds big fundraising lead
Quarterly reports show other candidates with big war chests, some with nothing.

Harris raises more than $2-million
The GOP candidate for a U.S. House seat collects far more campaign funds than her rivals.

July 13, 2002

Bush, McBride go on parade for veterans
Legionnaires seem to favor Gov. Jeb Bush, the political veteran, over Bill McBride and his war record.

Teacher sets sights on House
Kai Rush wanted his name to appear on the ballot this way: "Kai Rush, the Teacher."

Eaton says he has ear for office
Chris Eaton founded a company that finds North American volunteers to work on South American development projects, such as building schools.

July 12, 2002

GOP's fundraising far ahead of Democrats'
The Republican Party of Florida raised four times as much money as state Democrats in the past three months, ensuring Republican Gov. Jeb Bush plenty of cash for the fall election.

Statewide police union throws support to Bush
In a renewed emphasis on his law-and-order record, the governor touts the endorsement in four cities.

Citing an illness, Hapner drops race
Despite her removal from the bench, Elizabeth Hapner wanted to be a judge again. She says illness intervened.

July 11, 2002

Judicial races may get political
A U.S. Supreme Court ruling could clear the way for Florida judgeship candidates to tell voters where they stand on controversial issues.

Selection a swipe at activist high court
Gov. Jeb Bush sees his high court nominee as a foil for what many consider an over-reaching bench.

McBride funds outpace Reno
The former attorney general has greater name recognition, yet her fundraising efforts fall far short of the opposition.

Sanchez leads money race
The newcomer to Tampa politics is far ahead of the pack when it comes to raising funds for the 2003 mayoral election.

July 10, 2002

Mulieri challenger gives up try
A Country Crossings resident can't get enough signatures to run for the District 2 seat.

Redrawn House districts approved
A GOP leader's revision of three districts appeases U.S. judges. November's elections will be based on the result.

July 8, 2002

On Janet Reno's campaign, it's all relative
The most prominent Democrat in the race for governor has help from about a dozen family members.

Lipitor: It's the drug of choice on the campaign trail
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill McBride has concluded that it takes more than money and organization to run for office.

July 6, 2002

Reno's fundraising lags for campaign
Her campaign will report it raised fewer funds in the second quarter than it did in the first.

July 5, 2002

Reno campaign call: 'Protect government'
The current push to privatize is sapping its ability to meet social needs, she tells a Volusia crowd.

Six seek role of people's lawyer
The candidates for attorney general are struggling for attention, but the prize is a position of power.

July 4, 2002

Bush campaigns among enemy
Jeb Bush takes his campaign to Florida's most Democratic county, hoping to win over voters who spurned him in 1998.

Retired firefighter to run for office
SPRING HILL -- John H. Pasquale, a retired New York firefighter now living in Timber Pines, has filed paperwork signaling his intentions to become a candidate for Spring Hill fire commissioner.

July 3, 2002

Judges uphold redrawn districts
A challenge to the Legislature's new districts is rejected, pitting, among others, high-profile candidates Ginny Brown-Waite and incumbent Karen Thurman.

Followers watch and wait for Reno's campaign to gel
Bill McBride builds a statewide presence as Reno fans await an organization to match her name recognition.

July 2, 2002

Only one challenger meets deadline
Of the four incumbents facing re-election in the fall, three face no opposition.

McBride turns to Panhandle notable for boost
A virtual unknown in the region, the gubernatorial hopeful stumps with a familiar face as he woos North Florida voters.

Harris has 4-legged foe
SARASOTA -- The newest candidate challenging Secretary of State Katherine Harris in her bid for Congress is truly an underdog: a border collie mix.

July 1, 2002

Mr. President, we'll keep Jeb if you fix foster care
Karen Gievers, a lawyer who frequently represents the Democratic Party and has sued the state over its care of foster children, has suggested a way for President Bush to help his brother Jeb's re-election campaign: Fix Florida's foster care system.

June 28, 2002

Bush, McBride air education differences
The governor defends his system of mandatory tests and school accountability. The Tampa lawyer says there's a better way.

June 27, 2002

One Democrat out of race; one remains
Citing problems with completing his petition, Lawrence Cercola exits the County Commission District 4 primary race.

$500 fine is upheld for filing late report
The Florida Election Commission says a former Largo commissioner has to pay for filing a campaign expenditure report after the deadline.

Ethics complaint to Senate names Graham
Bob Graham is accused of using Senate staff and offices to work on a state university ballot initiative.

Voters get Libertarian choice
Michael Gilson-De Lemos said he believes people should have "a Libertarian choice."

June 26, 2002

Candidate proposes VA take over hospital site
Chuck Kalogianis, who is running for Congress, says Pasco is ripe for a VA medical center. Two hospitals soon will be vacant.

June 25, 2002

New district lines catch hopeful eye
In a District 5 without Alachua County, Jack Gargan sees a chance at the congressional seat he lost to incumbent Karen Thurman in 1998.

June 23, 2002

Bush: Better education will lead to fewer arrests
MIAMI BEACH -- Gov. Jeb Bush touted education as a way to aid law enforcement as he accepted an endorsement Saturday from the Fraternal Order of Police for his re-election campaign.

Reno, Democrats make pitch
Gubernatorial candidates and others visit Sims Park in the rain to encourage support for themselves and the party.

Candidate denies abuse allegations
CLEARWATER -- Public defender Chris Yeazell, trying to unseat longtime Circuit Judge Wayne Cobb, was accused by his ex-wife during a bitter divorce of battering and intimidating her -- charges that were never proven and that Yeazell denies.

If not careful, the tortoise could lose the race
Two-term County Commissioner Pat Mulieri sees herself as a tortoise.

June 22, 2002

Bushes' bash raises a cool $2.5-million
The Orlando fundraiser, prominently attended by several major developers and state lobbyists, again proves the GOP's prowess at raising cash.

June 21, 2002

District 2 candidates list issues
Commission hopefuls say building more roads, managing growth and promoting cooperation among governments are top priorities.

4 candidates file to run for tax district seats
They are seeking Seats 1 or 2 in the Tampa Palms community development district.

Retiree seeks seat on County Commission
Thomas Lynn Miller wants to put his transportation experience up against incumbent Pat Mulieri's record.

Capital punishment critic says report plays politics with death
TALLAHASSEE -- Abraham Bonowitz is suspicious of a new state report describing 23 inmates whose death sentences were overturned.

June 20, 2002

Proud of past, incumbent runs again
He says his unpopular insurance bill provision would have rescued Florida's uninsured. [6/20]

June 19, 2002

Sanchez switches managers
Political Junkie is an occasional column on this year's election season. [6/19]

Ventura: One term is enough
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Four years ago, he shocked the two major parties by winning election as a member of the Reform Party.

Candidate puts sports fields in the spotlight
Democrat Amye Cox has filed to run against Republican incumbent Pat Mulieri for seat on the County Commission.

Bush: It's time for woman governor
But "not this year," the incumbent clarifies later.

Childers accused of buying vote
A new indictment charges the suspended Escambia commissioner with bribing another commissioner.

June 18, 2002

Democrats to recruit at Pasco park rally
County clubs unite for the event, complete with candidates and voting machine demonstrations.

Governor says One Florida is working
More minority students are taking pre-college tests and advanced classes; Gov. Bush says his plan is the reason.

House incumbent seeks third term
State Rep. Leslie Waters is seeking a third term in the state House of Representatives, saying she wants to continue work she has started during the past four years.

Newcomer, 22, enters House race
Saying he has "a passion for government and public service," Dan Krassner, a Largo-area resident, has announced plans to run for a seat in the state House.

Judge dismisses lawsuit challenging new districts
Only federal courts can decide if redrawn congressional districts are constitutional, the Broward judge rules.

Tampa bids to serve as GOP host
Tampa presents its proposal to hold the 2004 Republican National Convention at the Ice Palace.

June 14, 2002

Democrat abandons District 61 House race
John T. Russell says he misjudged the work it would take to challenge an incumbent. He will campaign for Pat Burke. [6/14]

Candidate forum strikes a minor key
Several alternative candidates for governor describe their views Thursday at USF St. Petersburg.

Indian Rocks official to run for state Senate
Joanna Kennedy, an Indian Rocks Beach city commissioner and hair salon owner, has announced plans to run for the state Senate.

Former House member to seek state Senate seat
Dennis L. Jones, who spent 22 years in the Florida House of Representatives before term limits forced him out in 2000, has announced plans to run for the state Senate.

June 13, 2002

Candidates nibble edges of notoriety
Far Left and Far Right? Meet far out. They're not big names, but they have big ideas. And they're running for governor. [6/13]

Speaker-to-be weighs in on state taxes, education
"We pay enough taxes already," state Rep. Johnnie Byrd says.

June 12, 2002

Fla. rivals travel to north for cash
Bush and McBride take their fundraising efforts to New York to drum up support for their gubernatorial campaigns.

June 11, 2002

Political Junkie/Notes from the campaign trail ...
Of pornography, mailings and Freudian misspellings

Democrat abandons House race
John Russell says he misjudged the work it would take to challenge an incumbent for the House seat.

June 10, 2002

Some contenders nameless in campaign exit dispatch
When Lois Frankel announced Thursday she would quit the race for the Democratic nomination for governor, the daunting challenge she had faced was summarized in the first sentence of a news story by the Associated Press.

Reno brings Hollywood sheen
The ex-U.S. attorney general is accompanied by actor Martin Sheen as she campaigns in Tampa.

June 9, 2002

McBride supporters sweat over slow start
Some Democrats say the candidate for governor needs more exposure. The McBride camp says, in due time.

All for one -- after the primary, that is
The three Democratic candidates for state attorney general say their biggest concern is winning the powerful Cabinet office for the party.

June 8, 2002

Dunedin city commissioner to run for state Senate seat
Commissioner Janet Henderson says state Rep. Mike Fasano is too "extreme" for the GOP.

June 5, 2002

GOP fight for Senate develops
Labeled as too "extreme" for the GOP, Republican state Rep. Mike Fasano has gotten his first opponent in his run for a state Senate seat: Republican Dunedin Commissioner Janet Henderson.

Civic association activist seeks congressional seat
SPRING HILL -- Brian Moore, an activist ousted earlier this year from his post as president of the Spring Hill Civic Association, has joined the race for a U.S. congressional seat currently held by Karen Thurman.

Commission considers investigation of Florida Water
BROOKSVILLE -- With water pressure complaints mounting, and staff reports that Florida Water officials have resisted informal efforts to find solutions, commissioners decided Tuesday to reconsider formally investigating the utility's performance in Spring Hill.

Residency proposal inflames applicant
A county official who lives in Tampa opposes requiring residency for the deputy administrator. Commissioners agree.

Fellow Republican challenges legislator
RIDGE MANOR -- Political newcomer William Crawford has announced he will challenge a fellow Republican, Rep. David Russell, for the District 44 seat.

Foes say districts hamper minorities
Opponents claim the congressional redistricting plan would make it harder to elect black candidates.

New lawsuit targets tax referendum
TALLAHASSEE -- Florida's Realtors, broadcasters, accountants and others filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging a tax reform referendum that legislators placed on the November ballot.

Staying home in a hurricane is often safer
TALLAHASSEE -- The state needs to do a better job of not only telling people who should evacuate during a hurricane, but who should stay home and ride out the storm, Gov. Jeb Bush and his agency heads heard Tuesday.

Veto ax hangs over lawmakers' local projects
The governor decides today where to trim the $50-billion state budget.

June 4, 2002

GOP darling Giuliani lends star power to Bush campaign
Former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani lends his star power to Jeb Bush's campaign.

June 3, 2002

Jones' campaign for governor labors to gain lift
His poll numbers hug the ground as the former Air Force pilot draws few donors and crowds in his campaign for governor.

Campaign talk comes back to haunt governor
Florida Democrats have been reading up on Jeb Bush, taking the governor's words out of his mouth and throwing them back in his face.

June 2, 2002

Harris could have the last laugh
The butt of many a joke, Katherine Harris appears poised to have the last laugh by winning a U.S. House seat.

June 1, 2002

Attorney challenges veteran Bilirakis
Chuck Kalogianis hopes his earlier run at office helps him against the 10-term Republican.

Women's advocacy group endorses Reno
Emily's List, a national group that supports female candidates, announced Friday it has endorsed Janet Reno for governor, but it stopped short of recommending that its members start writing her checks.

May 31, 2002

WTI teacher to run for District 1 seat on School Board
INVERNESS -- From his vantage point behind a teacher's desk at the Withlacoochee Technical Institute, Louis Miele sees the value in a good education.

Cino drops bid for commission
She says she will focus on helping Democratic candidates for governor and Congress.

May 24, 2002

McBride lays out his education plan
The Democrat wants an extra $1-billion for public schools. Some of it would come from cigarette taxes.

May 23, 2002

Pasco legislator seeks Senate seat
The new District 11 runs from Dunedin to Citrus County. Pinellas residents will make up about a third of the district.

Businessman runs for Pinellas County School Board
Moses D. Holmes Jr., a St. Petersburg businessman and retired lobbyist for the National Education Association, has filed paperwork to run for the Pinellas County School Board.

May 21, 2002

Grocery manager to run for School Board
The Winn-Dixie employee is one of three candidates so far challenging Linda Lerner for the District 2 seat.

McBride's first campaign was bittersweet
Sweet, when in 1968 he ran for UF student body president and won by eight votes. Bitter, when a new election was ordered.

Voting lines suit sent back to federal court
Secretary of State Harris also moves to push Butterworth onto the plaintiffs' side.

President rounds up cash for Jeb
In his ninth visit to Florida, Bush raises $2-million to help the governor's re-election campaign.

Buckhorn envisions high-tech Tampa
The mayoral candidate says it would be his mission to make the city a "technologically friendly."

May 20, 2002

Reno wins crucial labor backing
The 110,000-member AFSCME endorses Janet Reno to be the Democrat challenging Gov. Bush.

Democrats at dinner skewer governor
Three who hope to unseat Jeb Bush sheathe the sharp words when talking about one another.

May 16, 2002