Florida's biggest teacher union backs Meek — and Crist

[DemocratSinceBirth]

TALLAHASSEE — In a stunning thank you for a veto of teacher merit pay — and perhaps a bow to political reality — the state's largest teacher union on Saturday said that while it backs Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Kendrick Meek as expected, it also would be fine with no-party Charlie Crist and co-endorsed both.

Giving a dual endorsement isn't unheard of, but recommending Crist — who until late last month was a Republican candidate — is a bold move for the Florida Education Association, which was practically at war with the previous Republican administration of Gov. Jeb Bush, and has long fought Republican leaders of the state.

And it may be seen as a bit of a blow to Meek, long well-liked in the education community for his hard work for the class-size amendment, and a favorite typically of union leaders.

But it also may be a nod to political reality. If Meek is seen as a candidate who can't win, some Meek backers may see Crist as closer to them on issues they care about than Republican candidate Marco Rubio. Meek also has a primary challenge from Jeff Greene. During a speech to another labor group, the AFL-CIO on Saturday, Meek reminded voters that in a three-way race he needs fewer votes, so its flawed logic to think he can't win.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/state/os-educators-split-endorsement-20100522,0,981975.story

[DCBob]

1. "bit of a blow to Meek" .. more like a major blow..

Meek is losing ground in the polls and this tepid endorsement will only make matters worse. It gives Crist legitimacy with Democrats.

[monmouth]

2. Anything to not have Rubio. Meek gave a great speech yesterday

to the union and is becoming noticed.