The real question is WHO WOULD PAY.
Crist is a mercenary. He runs for office for money.
The Democrats see indpendent crist as a way to open the path for Meeks.
The NRSC does not like tea party people. Remember NY 23, Steele essentially stepped aside to allow the party candidate win over the voter elected candidate.
NRSC Cornyn has already told Crist the NRSC will support Rubio if he runs as an Indy and warned Crist that the NRSC will make defeating Crist a priority.