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I think it is becoming evident that there are fewer and fewer “statesmen” who believe in doing what is right for their constituents, not what is politically expedient to find favor.

During the legislative session (Florida - only 60 days for the 3rd or 4th largest state - go figure)this year, there was no leadership from this Governor. He prefers the “hands off” approach...in other words, “don’t want to tick anyone off and ruin my chances of being liked”.

Last Governor (I know, I know, another Bush...but I really liked him!) would gather the legislative leadership and provide direction and tell them what he wanted to see out of the session. Of course, it was up to the legislature to do what they wanted with it, and sometimes it was nasty, but for the most part they worked with the Governor and passed his agenda.

The big “call to arms” for this Governor was “Property Tax Reform” which everyone wanted, however, what came out of the special legislative session was milktoast...nothing substative, maybe a few hundred dollars savings and a future referendum for a larger property tax cut that we’re already hearing won’t get support from the Republicans because the cities/counties/special districts are already crying they’re going to suffer. Again, all feel good stuff...

Thanks for the background. I agree with you on "fewer and fewer statesmen." They are becoming an endangered species, if not already extinct. :-(

As to the specific announcement of Crist's Executive Orders, Shermy is 100% correct. A primary motivation of this scam is to implement a cap and trade program; they are trying to sign up as many states as they can, as soon as possible. I only had to look at the first draft document, Executive order 07-128 (PDF), linked in the article to find this:

Phase I: By November 1, 2007, the Action Team shall issue recommendations including any necessary legislative initiatives to address the following:
(snip)
4. Market-based regulatory mechanisms, such as cap and trade programs, for use in efficiently reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Targets will be set which favor or benefit their cronies and carbon brokers will reap millions for trading in "carbon credits." Brought to you courtesy of the same folks that brought us junk bonds.