Crist worries conservatives

Tribune ^ | 11 August 2006 | Joe Follick

[floriduh voter]

DO, Please ping your GALLAGHER LIST.

FLORIDA GOVERNOR'S RACE GOP PRIMARY: CRIST V. GALLAGHER

ATTENTION ALL FREEPERS FIRST TELEVISED DEBATE:

Tuesday – August 22nd – 8pm

The Debate will be held in Tampa at the WEDU Studios, but will be televised statewide.

For further information, contact the Gallagher Team Leader in your area. There are going to be debate parties all over the state. FV

[floriduh voter]

Looks like Brent Sembler's campaign flaws are showing. Crist's manager is Judge Greer's friend's son. They are developers, not campaign strategists. They'd be nowhere without the leftist media and out of state and country donations. Did you know that foreigners with green cards can donate to Florida campaigns? I think that is horrible.

[JulieRNR21]

FLORIDA GOVERNOR'S RACE GOP PRIMARY: CRIST V. GALLAGHER

ATTENTION ALL FREEPERS FIRST TELEVISED DEBATE:

Tuesday – August 22nd – 8pm

The Debate will be held in Tampa at the WEDU Studios, but will be televised statewide.

For further information, contact the Gallagher Team Leader in your area. There are going to be debate parties all over the state.

http://www.tg2006.com/

[T.L.Sink]

While you're praying meditate on II Kings: 9:10.

[floriduh voter]

TOM GALLAGHER web site has a makeover. www.tg2006.com

Go there for debate party info in your area.

Go there to see Tom Gallagher's new commercial which started airing today statewide.

SOUR GRAPES: Charlie Crist didn't like Tom Gallagher's new edgy commercial that played today for the first time. Crist waged the first personal attack of this campaign today. Gallagher previously signed a Fair Campaign Pledge and is not going to personally attack Crist. He is going to compare and contrast their differences and I guess Charlie didn't like that being aired on television.

[floriduh voter]

bttt. Charlie threw a little hissy fit today. See my last post.

[BykrBayb]

Tuesday – August 22nd – 8pm

The Debate will be held in Tampa at the WEDU Studios, but will be televised statewide.

Any live feeds, for FReepers outside the state?

[BykrBayb]

Check out this page on Gallagher's site. http://www.tg2006.com/pdf/comparison.pdf

[Extremely Extreme Extremist]

I know. They used to train in black Ninja outfits not far from here. LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL

[8mmMauser]

Pinged again from Terri AUGUST Dailies

8mm

[floriduh voter]

TO JOIN TOM GALLAGHER PING LIST contact "davidosborne".

BB, if you go to www.tg2006.com, the Tom Gallagher for Gov web site, contact Ryan Price via email to find out about the debate.

ATTENTION CRISTMART SHOPPERS: Charlie Crist is not going to sign any bills until his stalled two year anti-murder proposal is passed by the legislature. So, just as I suspected, Crist would be a do nothing kind of guy and he's going to use anti-murder as a way to get out of dealing with other issues. Per Tampa Tribune Ad Watch not yet posted on the internet "...he (crist) won't sign any bills into law until the Legislature passes and sends him the anti-murder measure."

That is PREPOSTEROUS.

cristmart shoppers switch to Tom Gallagher.

It appears that Charlie Crist is an absolutist and if he doesn't get his way on a single proposal that has gone nowhere in two years due to its cost and lack of support, Crist is going to tie the hands of Florida's legislature! Tampa Tribune August 16, 2006 Ad Watch: Charlie Crist.

[floriduh voter]

Please see my last post about Crist's latest ad. The ad is about law enforcement and frankly, I don't feel any relief that all those cops are in his ad. Those cops are in the ad representing their union. Further, Florida law enforcement is overzealous in their use of tasers ending in fatalities.

Finally, Pinellas County Sheriff Rice hired Michael Schiavo before Terri Schiavo was killed. In order that Terri would be starved/dehydrated to death, After Sheriff Rice hired Schiavo the husband, Rice took an unopposed seat in the Fla Legislature and he voted for Terri to be killed.

Now, Michael Schiavo goes around the country shilling for democratic candidates to punish Jeb Bush. In a little over a year, Schiavo has built up a lot of personal and vacation time. Nice work if you can get it. Schiavo was promoted to supervisor after one year and all that time off to shill for democrats.

Reading between the lines re: Fla Law Enforcement is the prudent thing to do.

There are good cops and bad cops. Some of the worst are from Crist's PINELLAS COUNTY.

If Crist's anti-murder proposal has any perks for law enforcement in it, IMO, he's just promoting it to help the police unions.

Crist is for the Senate's immigration bill too. He's a liberal through and through.

[floriduh voter]

What about that thread that Crist was going to focus on the economy? He's got no idea what direction he's headed.

Anti-murder, economy, pick one, Charlie although you don't have to. This is a big state and he's painted himself into a corner again.

(we do know however, from the other FR thread that social issues will not be focused on per Charlie Crist. Crist's not goin' there. His liberal friends won't allow it. Liberals want rights but don't want anyone else to have their's.

[floriduh voter]

Fr. Frank Pavone and Priests for Life have set up a three-part plan to prepare for Elections 2006. Based at http://www.politicalreponsibility.org, this involves a) Prayer – Sign up to say a special daily prayer between now and Election Day; b) Education – Order Fr. Frank’s pocket-sized booklet “Voting with a Clear Conscience – in Ten Easy Steps”; c) Action – Sign up online for specific volunteer activities in your community and receive follow-up guidance and tools. Each of these three steps can be taken from http://www.politicalresponsibility.org. Visit today!

[claymore3]

CRIST STAYS FOCUSED ON AVOIDING THE ISSUES IN NEW AD,

DESPITE CHALLENGE FROM OPPONENT

TALLAHASSEE – Charlie Crist, Attorney General and candidate for Governor, today released a positive new television spot, Tune In which does nothing to assuage the anxiety many Republican voters feel over his liberal positions on the issues. The ad will begin airing today in response to Tom Gallagher’s comparative ad that began airing Tuesday.

Despite the important issues raised by Tom Gallagher, Tune In avoids any mention of Charlie Crist’s support for a liberal $25 billion dollar spending plan, Mr. Crist’s support for gay civil unions, Mr. Crist’s support amnesty for illegal immigrants, or Mr. Crist’s support for Roe v. Wade. Instead, Tune in examines Crist's focus on running a campaign devoid of issues that matter most to Floridians by claiming a pro-family agenda while supporting gay civil unions and expressing ambivalence to gay adoption; claiming to provide world class education opportunities to our students despite raising taxes or cutting programs in order to fund a $25 billion class-size amendment Jeb Bush has said will lead to “ massive tax increases”; claiming to support the safety and security of our children, families and communities while supporting amnesty for illegal immigrants.

Tune In also highlights Crist's history of violating Ronald Reagan's 11th Commandment, by attacking his opponent. Charlie Crist has a long and distinguished record or invoking Ronald Reagan’s 11th Commandment, only to violate it whenever he is challenged to talk about the issues.

Tune In is available today at www.CharlieCrist.com.

Compare is still on the air and available at www.tg2006.com.

Tune In Script:

The last time he ran for Governor, my opponent viciously attacked Governor Jeb Bush, even comparing him to Fidel Castro.

TOM GALLAGHER WAS ONE OF THE FIRST PRIMARY CANDIDATES TO ENDORSE JEB BUSH IN 1994

“…an adviser to one of the candidates said the losing candidates and their supporters are trying to talk Smith into calling off the fight. They argue the focus should be on beating Democratic Gov. Gallagher was a bitter Bush opponent in the primary. But, in 1986, Gallagher lost a primary and threw his support to then-Tampa Mayor Bob Martinez because he had an insurmountable 44 percent in the first vote…’As soon as we can, we need to get this together.’” (The Palm Beach Post, 10/10/94)



“Gallagher…is expected to line up behind [Jeb] Bush later this week, possibly in an appearance with the other Republican candidates and Bush's father, George Bush” (The St. Petersburg Times, 10/12/94)


TOM GALLAGHER CAMPAIGNED FOR JEB BUSH IN 1994

“Guest stars included…Insurance Commissioner Tom Gallagher and state Sen. Ander Crenshaw. It was a seamless day of political pageantry that was…a show of political unity…In Miami, Smith…Tom Gallagher,…Ander Crenshaw and Mel Martinez…joined together on stage to show they support the party nominee.” (The Palm Beach Post, 10/17/94)


“Tom Gallagher spoke to the 1,200 people gathered in Miami for a $ 500 per person dinner for Bush campaign.” (The St. Petersburg Times, 10/18/94)

CHARLIE CRIST IS THE ONLY REPUBLICAN EVER TO BE REPRIMANDED BY GOVERNOR JEB BUSH FOR RUNNING NEGATIVE AND PERSONAL ATTACK ADS

“In 2000, Crist produced an ad attacking his Democratic opponent for Education Commissioner, George Sheldon, for a 1984 drunk driving arrest.” (St. Petersburg Times, 11/4/00; AP, 11/4/00)



CHARLIE CRIST’S NEGATIVE CAMPAIGN TACTICS DREW A REBUKE FROM JEB BUSH ON NATIONAL TELEVISION

“WOLF BLITZER: You know, there was a story in Friday's Tampa Tribune. I want to read to you from that article. You may be familiar with it. It says the Republican education commissioner, the candidate, Charlie Crist (ph), hastily pulled a television ad, saying his Democratic opponent, George Sheldon (ph), is unfit to hold the office, in part, because he had a drunken driving conviction in 1984. Are you familiar with the decision to pull that ad at this point in that campaign?
JEB BUSH: Absolutely. In fact, a month ago, when it was presented to me as an idea, I said don't do it. And, you know, it is the wrong approach to campaign using these types of things to try to give people the wrong impression." (CNN Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, 11/6/00)



Now he's directing the same false, misleading attacks against me.



"It's OK to have differences of opinion," Bush said. "There ought to be some recognition that in politics, it doesn't have to be a tea party all the time." (The Gainesville Sun, 08/16/06)



In 1992, Crist ran a commercial attacking GOP opponent Jeff Huenik’s legislative attendance record, with reworded verse set to the score of the old Beverly Hillbillies theme song. (Tampa Tribune, 9/7/92) Huenik accused Crist of “lying” about other charges made during the campaign and said Crist’s victory “shows negative campaigning works.” (St. Petersburg Times, 9/2/92)



I'm Charlie Crist – and the facts are perfectly clear. I'll continue Governor Bush's positive, pro-family agenda…

“…Crist…said it was time for Florida leaders to consent to fully funding the class-size amendment passed in 2002. ‘The people have spoken on that issue. It's important to respect democracy. I certainly do,’ Crist said. ‘And I think it's time to move forward and try to implement it the best that we can.’ Bush and other Republicans have said the mandate to lower class sizes was too costly, and believe it would drain $18* billion from state coffers by the time it is slated to be met in 2010.” (The Florida Today, 07/20/06)



“On immigration, Gallagher said: ‘We need to close our borders’ and, once that is accomplished, ‘we can do something about the 10 or 11 million illegal immigrants’ already in the country. Crist said he supports closing the border but granting amnesty to illegal immigrants. (The Palm Beach Post, 08/02/06)



“State Attorney General Charlie Crist…seemed to backtrack when he recently told a Miami radio interviewer that same-sex civil unions are ‘fine.’” (The Miami Herald, 07/31/06)



“Crist's more moderate stands make him the better candidate: Crist… says he wouldn't object to civil unions for gay couples…would not support a law that banned [abortion] outright -- or made it functionally impossible for women to obtain them. He …acknowledges that the state needs to improve spending in many areas...” (The Daytona Beach News Journal, 08/13/06)



“Crist said on the radio that civil unions between gays are ‘fine...’Crist's Republican primary opponent, state Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher, opposes civil unions and gay adoptions. Gallagher's latest TV ad emphasizes his support for family values and his belief that marriage is between a man and a woman.” (The St. Petersburg Times, 07/28/06)



“’I am prochoice, but not pro-abortion,’ Crist wrote in a 1998 Times questionnaire. ‘I believe that a woman has the right to choose, but would prefer only after careful consideration and consultation with her family, her physician, and her clergy; not her government.’ Today Crist calls himself ‘pro-life,’ but when pressed, he doesn't sound substantively different than he did during his 1998 U.S. Senate campaign. ‘What we need to do is encourage a culture that respects life, as opposed to overturning (Roe vs. Wade),’ he said this week. Crist…as a legislator he voted against proposals to require counseling and a waiting period for all women seeking abortions. NARAL Pro-Choice America labels him a ‘mixed choice’ politician, compared to Bush and Jennings, who are ‘antichoice.’” (The St. Petersburg Times, 03/05/05)



“But Crist proclaims himself a conservative while still holding to moderate views - accepting abortion rights, civil unions for gays, and stem cell research, for example.” (The Tampa Tribune, 08/09/06)



…Protecting hurricane victims -- by vigorously prosecuting price gougers…

Crist, who has made his aggressive stand against price gouging an important part of his profile as he runs for governor, reported collecting $1.36-million in restitution from companies accused of cheating consumers during two record-breaking hurricane seasons. The total includes cash paid to victims and what Crist's office calls debt reduction, cases in which state action resulted in reduced charges for services. 'It doesn't sound like very much money,' said Bill Newton, a Tampa consumer advocate. (The St. Petersburg Times, 08//16/06)



...protecting children from sexual predators…

“Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist wants the public to know he is ‘anti-murder.’ It's a sexy sound bite, eminently usable in his campaign for the governor's office, that means he supports a piece of legislation that would crack down on probation violators convicted of violent crimes. The bill appears to have little chance of passing this year, but that doesn't mean Crist won't be talking about it as he runs for the Republican nomination to succeed Gov. Jeb Bush.” (The Miami Herald, 04/09/06)



“But even if this bill had been the law at the time, it would not have affected Joseph Smith, who is now on death row for the rape and murder of 11-year-old Carlie. Smith had no prior violent felony convictions in his background, a condition that is necessary to trigger the proposed legislation. Smith's probation violation had to do with fines he hadn't paid, and the legislation explicitly removes monetary probation violations from its reach. Admittedly, this year's version of the anti-murder bill - as opposed to a much broader one proposed last year - would have a relatively small impact on the status quo. Criminal court judges already tend to deny bond and deal harshly with violent felons who violate probation. Still, the bill is expected cost the state more than $10-million by adding 251 inmates to Florida's prison system by 2008. Probationers are required to submit to random drug tests, stay away from other criminals and report regularly to their probation supervisor, among other conditions. Failure to abide by any of these rules could result in the return to prison for years. A judge is in the best position to decide whether someone's slip-up is a small mistake or a serious offense. Bills like the Anti-Murder Act just get in the way, without enhancing public safety. (The St. Petersburg Times, 04/27/06)



…Ensuring criminals serve at least 85% of their sentences.

“His Senate office became a nonstop publicity machine. Aides cranked out one press release after another. There was "Crist to sponsor chain gang amendment" on May 4, 1995. "Crist named 'Legislator of the Year' by PBA" on July 28, 1995. "Crist sponsors bill to require 8-hour work day for inmates" on Sept. 21, 1995. The idea of chain gangs played well with the media and voters, but it was largely a myth.” (The St. Petersburg Times, 07/31/06)



And I'm the only candidate for Governor who has never supported a tax increase.

Crist “knows the solutions don't always lend themselves to snappy campaign slogans and aren't always consistent with no-tax rhetoric.” (St. Petersburg Times-editorial, 9/24/86) That same year, Crist stated: “The imposition of reasonable impact fees would be a revenue source that I would support…[.]” (St. Petersburg Times, 8/29/86) Moreover,



In a written 1992 statement to the St. Petersburg Times, Crist said: “Taxes that are in fact fair and are shared are essential if any democratic government is to succeed.” (St. Petersburg Times, 8/29/92)



In a 1992 questionnaire, Crist “said the state's tax base is not adequate and ‘the elimination of unfair and unjustified exclusions and exemptions could assist in the improved revenue base necessary to help improve and maintain our quality of life’” (St. Petersburg Times-editorial, 9/6/92)



Crist ‘emphasized his concern about Florida’s inadequate tax base…’” (St. Petersburg Times-editorial, 10/18/92)



Crist voted for a 1996 bill that placed a tax on hospitals for every live birth. (Tampa Tribune, 10/4/96)



Crist supported a penny-per-pound tax to be charged to sugar companies and rejected by the voters in 1996. (St. Petersburg Times, 10/30/98)



“He has committed to putting tens of billions of dollars into reducing class sizes, as the state Constitution requires, even though Gov. Jeb Bush and other top Republicans still would rather repeal that requirement. ‘It's time to move on,’ Crist said. But that's just the start. Crist's other priorities include: The "antimurder" bill, which would crack down on probation violators and would cost, by one legislative analysis, $118-million a year by 2010. Giving 10 percent annual pay raises to the top 25 percent of teachers in Florida. First-year cost: $150-million. Adding reading coaches to all public schools, at an annual cost of $100-million. Spending at least $1-billion more every year on public schools…Is Crist promising more than Florida's budget can deliver?” (The St. Petersburg Times, 08/08/16)

[floriduh voter]

bttt

[floriduh voter]

TOM GALLAGHER V. CRIST DEBATE NEWS:

Tom's opponent supports a liberal $25 billion spending plan Jeb Bush says will lead to "massive tax increases," Tom's opponent supports gay civil unions, Tom's opponent supports amnesty for illegal immigrants, and Tom's opponent is pro-choice.

On the other hand, Tom has continued to fight on behalf of our Republican values. Tom opposes the liberal $25 billion spending plan, Tom opposes gay civil unions, Tom opposes amnesty for illegal immigrants and is pro-life.

Tom's opponent has ducked out of debating Tom on these important issues - but next week he'll have no place to hide.

The debate will air statewide Tuesday night AUGUST 22nd on your local PBS station at 8 pm.

[JulieRNR21]

"Crist is almost like a Democrat-lite," said Jim Kitchens, an Orlando political consultant and pollster.

We must.....NEVER FORGET.....Crist & Reno....Perfect together?

I find this disturbing and an indication that Crist is a RINO who is sympathetic to the homocexual agenda:

CRIST....gave NO RESPONSE....to these questions on the Christian Coalition Questionaire:

"Public schools teaching homosexuality as an acceptable lifestyle.

"Amend the Constitution to define marriage as a man and a woman"

"Prohibit Embryonic Stem Cell research that destroys a human embryo"

"Voluntary student-led prayer at school related events"

[floriduh voter]

AN EXPOSE' TO GO WITH THE PHOTOS OF CRIST WITH JANET RENO. Is this what you want running out state?

THIS IS LENGTHY BUT TRUST ME, IT WILL TURN YOU FROM A CRIST SUPPORTER TO A GALLAGHER VOTER if you aren't already. Charlie Crist gave the keynote speech hailing Judge Greer and Judge Whittemore as "heroes" because the Fla ABOTA named Greer and Whittemore CO-JURISTS OF THE YEAR for killing Terri Schiavo.

Title: JUDGES, TRIAL LAWYER RECOGNIZED WITH PRESTIGIOUS HONORS

Date: 7/21/2005

Author: Mindy Boggs, Executive Director

Body: FLABOTA recently selected Circuit Judge George W. Greer and U. S. Middle District Judge James D. Whittemore, as its Jurists of the Year.

Charles H. Baumberger of Miami was selected as its Trial Lawyer of the Year.

The three were honored July 15 during FLABOTA’s annual awards banquet at The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida where the keynote address was given by Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist.

The prestigious awards are bestowed each year on the individuals who represent the highest standards of protecting the integrity of Florida’s civil trial system.

“Judge Greer, Judge Whittemore and Chuck Baumberger each have made significant contributions to the betterment of Florida’s trial system, not just this year, but throughout their careers,” said Herman Russomanno, president of FLABOTA. “They each have made a profound impact in Florida’s courts, with their peers, and in their respective communities.”

As Jurist of the Year, the Honorable George W. Greer, Circuit Judge in the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court since 1993, was recognized for outstanding service and dedication and integrity as a circuit judge for the citizens of the state of Florida. He was selected because he exemplifies the criteria for the award, not the least of which include following the rule of law and applying it evenhandedly; demanding professionalism from all lawyers; and maintaining open and accessible working relationships with the trial bar.

Judge Greer received his bachelors’ degree from Florida State University (1964) and his J.D. degree from the University of Florida College of Law (1966). He was first elected to the circuit court in 1992 and re-elected in 1998 and 2004. Since taking office, he has served in the Juvenile, Probate and Guardianship, Criminal Law and Family Law Divisions. In 1999-2000, Judge Greer served as Chair of the Florida Conference of Circuit Judges, the statewide organization of more than 500 circuit judges in Florida. In October 1994, Greer was presented the Mary Zeller Award by the Florida Supreme Court and the Florida Guardian ad Litem Program as the child advocate for the Sixth Circuit. He has also received recognition and numerous distinguished jurist awards by the Clearwater, St. Petersburg, West Pasco, and Hillsborough Bar Associations, the Florida State Guardian’s Association, and the Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Judge Greer also served on the Advisory Board of the Clearwater Salvation Army and is a member of the Clearwater Rotary Club.

The other Jurist of the Year Award recipient, the Honorable James D. Whittemore, United States District Judge, Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, was nominated for appointment as U. S. District Judge in October 1999 by President Clinton, and was unanimously confirmed by the U. S. Senate to take office in May 2000. Judge Whittemore was first appointed to the circuit court bench in February 1990 by then-Governor Bob Martinez, and was re-elected without opposition in 1991 and 1996. He presided over the General Civil Division “G” of the 13th Judicial Circuit, after previously serving as Administrative Judge in Plant City over general civil, probate, criminal and family law cases.

Judge Whittemore graduated in 1974 from the University of Florida with honors and earned his J.D. degree at Stetson College of Law in 1977. He is a member of The Florida Bar and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. He is a past president of the William Glenn Terrell Inn of Court, past president of the Hillsborough County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, former director of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and past chair of Florida Bar Grievance Committee 13A. He has received several awards including Outstanding Jurist Awards from the Hillsborough County Bar Young Lawyers Division and The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division, the 2001 Judicial Achievement Award presented to him by the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, and the 2005 Distinguished Alumnus Award from Stetson University College of Law.

“Both Judge Greer and Judge Whittemore, through their efforts in dealing with the Schiavo case, have distinguished themselves as jurists willing to follow the rule of law in the face of unprecedented pressure from sections of the public, the executive, and legislative branches,” said Brad Powers, president of the Tampa Bay Chapter of ABOTA which unanimously nominated the judges as co-Jurists of the Year. “Both jurists are deserving of this award given their professional handling of the Schiavo matter. "THEY HAVE GREATLY HONORED THE CIVIL JUSTICE SYSTEM THAT OUR ORGANIZATION SEEKS TO PROTECT."

TRIAL LAWYERS MURDERED TERRI SCHIAVO AND AS PER USUAL, WHOSE THE VICTIM? They are...

Herman Russomanno, President

Title: MORE RESPONSES TO ATTACKS ON THE JUDICIARY

Date: 3/24/2005

Author: Herman J. Russomanno, President

Body: -----Original Email Message-----

From: Martha Barrera [mailto:Martha_Barrera@oag.state.fl.us]

Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2005 7:28 PM

To: Herman J. Russomanno; fwalker@flabar.org

Subject: RE: Responding to Attacks on the Judiciary

Dear President Kelly, Mr. Russomanno and fellow counsel,

I cannot help but think that attacks on the judiciary have eroded our system of justice in the eyes of the public to such an extent that people now believe that death threats against judges are acceptable. The recent violent attacks on judges and court personnel, such as the one at the Atlanta courthouse, are in danger of becoming commonplace events. Violence is becoming the norm in all aspects of society.

Everyone is a critic. Everyone is an activist. Your opinion on an issue is the only one acceptable. If a person disagrees with you he/she is ignorant, unpatriotic, a heathen or a criminal and should be shot or burned at the stake. Incredibly, this attitude is encouraged and embraced by persons in authority and by those who should know better.

Examine recent history, surf the internet and survey television news shows, and C-Span. Vitriolic and acrimonious criticism of court opinions concerning elections, the Lord's Prayer, the 10 Commandments, and right to life issues, among others; criticism of legislation concerning insurance claims, lawsuits against doctors and businesses, class action suits; criticism of criminal sentencing and of jury verdicts have reached a crisis level and bombard the public through every media outlet including the internet. Knee jerk reactions, insults and threats are the custom of the times. Differences of opinions have become bitter and personal rather than topics of discussion on which Americans agree to disagree.

I agree that this is a crisis that needs to be addressed. Regardless of each individual's political affiliation, we need to promote and insist on a code of conduct that above all encourages respect for all persons, for the rule of law, for separation of powers, for freedom of expression and religion and for our institutions regardless of individual views on and commitment to the issue involved.

As a 28 year member of the Florida Bar, I heartily endorse the actions of the Bar and FLABOTA.

Martha F. Barrera

Assistant Attorney General

850 414-3789

From: Herman J. Russomanno [mailto:hrussomanno@russomanno.com]

Sent: Friday, March 25, 2005 11:51 AM

To: 'Martha Barrera'

Dear Martha: Your comments are wonderful and truly show your passion for judicial independence. All Florida lawyers, as officers of the court, need to join hands in support of judicial independence. THE TIME IS NOW!

FLABOTA will work with our outstanding leaders of The Florida Bar to preserve and protect judicial independence.

The importance of an independent judiciary didn't just drop from the sky. Chief Justice William Rehnquist has stated that judicial independence is "one of the crown jewels of our system of justice."

Best wishes, Herman

Title: RESPONDING TO ATTACKS ON THE JUDICIARY

Date: 3/24/2005

Author: Herman Russomanno, President

Body: -----Original Email Message-----

From: Herman J. Russomanno

[mailto:hrussomanno@russomanno.com]

Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2005 5:36 PM

Subject: Responding to Attacks on the Judiciary

Dear President Kelly, Board of Governors, Section Leaders and Voluntary Bar Leaders:

The statement issued today [see below] by the President of The Florida Bar responding to attacks on the Judiciary and calling for support of the rule of law and separation of powers is excellent.

Justice is under fire in the State of Florida. The Florida Bar is to be congratulated for its active participation in defending judges and the courts from these unwarranted attacks.

As this year's President of FLABOTA (Florida Chapters of the American Board of Trial Advocates) and our 525 member organization with 11 chapters throughout Florida, we join with The Florida Bar in protecting the Judiciary from these attacks.

Judicial Independence enriches democracy. Our Constitution is intentionally designed to place limitation on the exercise of power in all branches of government. Under our constitutional government, with its separation of powers, it is the function of the judiciary to ensure that the legislative and the executive branches do not overstep their bounds.

FLABOTA members are plaintiff and defense lawyers who are experienced trial lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional skill as advocates and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of civility, professionalism and ethical conduct. FLABOTA's mission is to preserve the Seventh Amendment right to trial by jury in civil cases and to vigorously protect the independence of the judiciary and the independence of the Florida lawyer.

This is a call to action to all Florida lawyers. As lawyers, we can celebrate judicial independence because we all know that the courts help make American and our wonderful state of Florida special by defending our freedoms and protecting our rights. To undermine judicial independence would mark a drastic departure from our nation by ripping up our federal and state constitutions and their values. We cannot allow political demagoguery and special interests to undermine the genius of our constitutional system. We must fulfill our duty to protect the independence of the judiciary and the bar.

You also should be aware that there is a group called The Institute for Legal Reform (see www.instituteforlegalreform.org) One of the ads on this website has a man screaming at the top of his lungs that our state's legal system destroys jobs, raises taxes and takes your money. The ad further lists the best to worst legal systems in the United States. The Best Legal System is rated number 1, the worst legal system is rated 50. Florida is listed as number 42. The ad ends with the cry that legal reform is needed now. Demand that your elected officials fix the flaws in the justice system. The ad concludes with this unbelievable statement "REQUIRE FAIRNESS FROM YOUR JUDGES."

We must stand together to denounce these negative attacks and organized campaigns to drive judges from office or attack their integrity for making unpopular decisions.

Current efforts to encroach on judicial independence come in a variety of forms including special interest groups. The threat to judicial independence in the State of Florida is no longer a slow, incremental erosion. The attack now moves at a rapid speed with special rules and limited debate.

FLABOTA IS READY, WILLING AND ABLE TO JOIN THE FLORIDA BAR AND WILL ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN DEFENDING JUDGES AND THE COURTS FROM UNWARRANTED ATTACKS. WE MUST EXPOSE THESE POLITICAL THREATS TO JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE AND PROTECT JUDGES WHO ARE BEING TARGETED FOR SPECIFIC CASE RULINGS.

Sincerely,

Herman J. Russomanno

President

FLABOTA

TO: Board of Governors, Section and Voluntary Bar Leaders

FROM: Kelly Overstreet Johnson, President

RE: Responding to Attacks on the Judiciary

Today's Daily News Summary includes clips describing the recent attacks on the judiciary and court system as a result of the Terri Schiavo case. As in other high profile cases, it is extremely important that the public understand the role and responsibility of judges in order to maintain confidence in our legal system.

I have written the following statement to be issued to the Florida news media in support of the rule of law and separation of powers and I would encourage all of you to consider speaking out similarly with etters to the editor and in other community forums. Fortunately many of the major newspapers in Florida have already come out in defense of the rule of law but it is important that we keep the message visible during these difficult times.

STATEMENT OF KELLY OVERSTREET JOHNSON, PRESIDENT OF THE FLORIDA BAR

March 24, 2005

"The tragic and high visibility case of Terri Schiavo has resulted in an unprecedented and unjustified attack upon our judiciary.

Regardless of anyone's personal or political feelings about the Schiavo case, this is a critical time for Americans to recognize the vital role of the judiciary in maintaining the rule of law and the importance of the separation of powers among the three branches of government.

"It is in times like these that we should recognize that our judges, on a daily basis and not just in high profile cases, have the duty and responsibility to protect the rights and liberties afforded to all of us by law. Judges have no control over which cases come before them and they will inevitably be involved in deciding difficult and unpopular cases. When presiding over a case, judges make rulings based solely on the Constitution and other laws, and not their own feelings or personal beliefs.

"While we may disagree with decisions and actions of public officials including judges, it is entirely unacceptable and unfair for our judges to be criticized and even vilified when no judicial basis for such criticism exists. Unfortunately that is what is happening as emotions heighten in the Terri Schiavo case. Florida newspapers are now reporting that Circuit Judge George Greer has not only been accused of murder and terrorism by congressional leaders in Washington, but has received death threats and was pressured to leave his church.

"Societal dilemmas should never be confused with constitutional responsibilities. Florida's legal profession knows from polling that Floridians want nothing less than a fair and impartial judiciary.

Judge Greer is an ideal representative of the type of judge citizens want to hear their case. His rulings are based on laws, not emotions and not politics. Indeed, his rulings have been repeatedly reviewed and scrutinized by many different courts on many different occasions. We must continue to have confidence in our legal system and expect our judges to act with the knowledge and integrity required of their position.

"Judges are limited by duty to responding to such unfair criticism. But Florida's editorial boards, community leaders and the 75,000-member Florida Bar are not. The Florida Bar joins many of the state's major newspapers and democratic advocates in denouncing the unwarranted attacks on the judges and courts which serve everyone in this great country. "

STATEMENT FROM ROBERT J. GREY JR., PRESIDENT OF THE AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION, ON ATTACKS ON THE JUDICIARY IN THE TERRI SCHIAVO CASE

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 25, 2005 -- The tragic circumstances of the Terri Schiavo case have elicited strong feelings from all quarters.

While this is completely understandable, many commentators and observers have crossed the line in using this tragedy to needlessly, gratuitously and viciously attack the dedicated men and women who serve as America's judges. This needs to stop.

Regardless of how one feels about the specific circumstances of this situation, the role of the judiciary in it is clear and straightforward. The federal and state judges who have been assigned this case have been charged with weighing the facts of the case and the remedies set forth in the law, responsibilities they have carried out valiantly and with great dignity and sensitivity to the anguish that all of the participants in this case have endured.

While it is appropriate for commentators, policymakers and the broader public to debate the societal challenges and dilemmas brought to light by Terri Schiavo's case, there is no need for personal attacks on the judges in this case. They are not killers as some have called them, nor are they activists bent on pushing an ideological agenda. They are simply dedicated public servants called on to serve as impartial arbiters in a very difficult case. Instead of maligning them for applying existing law to the case at hand, even though it may not reflect the current will of Congress, we should praise them for dispensing even-handed justice and upholding the independence of the judiciary even under the most difficult circumstances. These judges deserve our respect, not our scorn.

FV SAYS: The bottom line is that CHARLIE CRIST AND HIS FELLOW TRIAL LAWYERS (lotsa democrats) AND JURISTS SAY: "This must stop."

What you say? Protecting innocent life????? THEY ARE PLAYING THE VICTIM BUT THE REAL VICTIM WAS TERRI SCHIAVO.

We must stop Charlie Crist in the voting booth.

TOM GALLAGHER FOR GOVERNOR.

[floriduh voter]

One of the emails that is shown above and published on the ABOTA web site was by the ASSISTANT ATTORNEY GENERAL. Martha F. Barrera, Assistant Attorney General - CHARLIE CRIST is her boss.

Tom Gallagher will stop this utter disregard for the people and our views which they are entitled to hold.

What's this "This must stop" baloney?

Stop what?