Bruising Negotiator

Much of the national discussion today is on what happened in the U.S. House of Representatives negotiations for Speaker Pelosi and Leader Hoyer to get a scant 5 vote margin on the Health Care Reform bill.  Reading of the alleged tactics involved, it reminded me of former Florida Senator Curtis Peterson (D., Eaton Park), with whom I served in the 70’s and ’80s.  As I point out in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, I did not see “eye to eye” with Curtis very often.  It was ironic because he had strong support in the Legislature, and socially, I was a fraternity brother and a good friend of his son in college.  But among the reputations of which he seemed most proud, was his bruising negotiating style as the almost permanent chairman of the Senate Education Appropriations Conference Committee, negotiating with the House.  As a nursery man,  he somehow learned nefarious negotiating tactics, including anger outbursts, pouting, holding member’s projects hostage, and flat out refusing to meet.  He seemed to be most proud when the press dubbed his almost childish antics as “over the top.”  My guess is that similar experiences have become common in the U.S. Capitol today.

Pettigrew-Hollahan…A Race For The Ages

In 1972, Florida Speaker of the House of Representatives Dick Pettigrew (D., Miami) had a big decision to make.  He was just completing his successful term (the first as Speaker from Dade County) as Speaker, and had ambitions for higher office.  His colleague in the Dade Delegation, Senator George Hollahan (D., Miami), had garnered enough pledges to become the next Senate President (also the first President  from Dade County).  They were cordial to each other, but direct opposites politically.  The next statewide race, for U.S. Senate, was not up for another 2 years.  Should Pettigrew wait and put together his campaign over the 2 years, or take on the veteran and well entrenched colleague, and hope to pull off a shocking upset?  Did I mention the district was conservative and made to order for Hollahan (I know that because it later became my Senate district)?  Pettigrew pushed all his political chips across the table and won an election that Dade County  and Florida will not soon forget–it was truly a race for the ages.

“…Will the Gentleman Yield?”

It was an integral part of the “Attack on Entebbe”(see previous post, here) strategy.  Former State Representative George Sheldon (D., Tampa) and I were assigned to debate legislation on the floor of the House look enough to divert attention from the clandestine maneuvering on the floor for the planned surprise pledge solicitation that night at the “Red Neck Party.”  Rep. Hyatt Brown (D., Daytona Beach) was seeking the Speakership for 1979-80, and the solicitation was an attempt to force Speaker Don Tucker (D., Tallahassee) to call a Democratic House Caucus to election Brown over Rep. Ed Fortune (D., Pace).  Although the plan worked, Sheldon and I were barely able to keep the debate going, as required.  I recall the required exchange, “Will the gentleman yield?” as George read out loud on the floor of the House the inconsequential  contents of that day’s Special Order Calendar.

Lesson 15 From “The Golden Years”

The last chapter of my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, is a compliation of reflections and lessons I learned from my campaigns and public service.  Most are original, and frankly some are embarrassing to admit.  Watching televised debate, in both the Florida legislature on public television and the Congress on CSPAN, I am reminded of lesson 15 from my book:  “It is important to remember that anything said on the floor of the House or Senate Chamber is recorded and therefore public record forever.  Many a candidate or elected official has wished that they could take back something said in jest and/or intended to be off the record.  Say nothing unless you have to.”  In my opinion, this is a lesson worth its’ weight in gold.

For the Holidays–Win a Free Copy of “Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s”

To get into the holiday spirit, how about a contest among bloggers to win a free copy of my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s?  After all, the book has done quite well–sold out of its’ first edition, it is under contract to be the basis of a TV documentary, and it has received positive reviews ranging from the New York Times to the Florida Bar Journal, to ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX television news, among many others.

All right then, here is the question drawn from the “Golden Political Era” of the ’70s and ’80s in Florida:  Name the Staff Director of the Florida House of Representatives Health and Rehabilitative Services Committee in 1974-76.  We will ship by Fed Ex a signed copy of the book to the first correct answer to this post.  Happy Holidays.

Meet Team Tom Adams

As indicated in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, State Senator Reubin Askew (D., Pensacola) might not have been elected Governor in 1970 were it not for the extraordinary staff of his running mate, Secretary of State Tom Adams (D., Green Cove Springs).  Without regard to their order, they included Harry Landrum, Jim Smith, Jim Apthorp, Jim Krog, Guy Spearman, Dick Hollahan, George Sheldon, Scotty Fraser, and Bob Hugli.  I apologize if I have omitted any of the “Team Tom Adams.”  They were in a class all their own in terms of their campaign prowess, and to their credit, most of them went on to become outstanding administrators, and in most cases, some of the most successful lobbyists in Tallahassee.

“Curse You Red Barron”

As I stated in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, a sense of humor is imperative for success in politics.  Senator Louis de la Parte (D., Tampa), one of Florida’s best legislators ever, was debating the Dean of the Senate, Dempsey Barron (D., Panama City) on the floor in the early 1970’s, and out of frustration, the Senior Senator from Tampa blurted out, “Curse you Red Barron.”  The comment, taken from the ageless “Peanuts” cartoon strip, broke the chamber and gallery up for several minutes.  Both Senators had a chance to pause and reflect, and the result was a consensus vote on resolution of the issue under debate.  It was an excellent lesson for a young, new member of the Florida House of Representatives, sitting and watching the debate at the back of the Senate Chamber–me.

“Amicus Curiae” Brief Filed 35 Years Ago

In 1974, after my election to the Florida House of Representatives, Speaker Don Tucker (D., Tallahassee) advised me that I would be one of two freshman selected to chair a Subcommittee (the other was Lee Moffitt of Tampa).  The committee was the one Tucker had previously chaired, Corrections.  My first order of business was to agree to file an Amicus Curiae brief in the courts on the soon to become landmark lawsuit of Costello versus Wainwright.  The issue was the quality and level of health care afforded the prisoners in the Florida corrections system.  It was primarily a funding issue, but due to the national publicity the law suit generated, as well as its’ potential precedent  for other lawsuits, the staff convinced me that it was important file the brief, as the Chairman of the committee of jurisdiction.  Only months before I was a salesman with the IBM Corporation, with little knowledge of latin, much less an Amicus Curiae brief.  It took many years, but the suit was settled under the leadership of Florida Attorney Generals Jim Smith, Bob Butterworth; and Governors Reubin Askew and Bob Graham.

Those Who Write Laws…Should Also Obey Them.

It was 1972…I was running for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives against a long time incumbent, and a legendary Miami last  name, Rep. Jeff Gautier (D., Miami).  Jeff’s greatest legislative skill as an attorney was his knowledge of the rules and parliamentary procedures.  But he also had a weakness in lawmaking–he did not always obey the law.  He violated the state’s implied consent law, after being charged with DUI.  As a newcomer to politics, I did not know how to handle the issue during the campaign, and elected to ignore it, and focus on the differences we had on the issues–which were many.  However, one political observer opined during the very end of our  run-off election, “Those Who Write Laws…Should  Also Obey Them.”  It seemed to resonate with the voters, but by then it was too late.  Between Gautier’s name recognition, his pent up campaign war chest, and an unexpected storm on election day, he won the election by a few hundred votes.  Timing is everything in politics.

Which Way Those Guys Go?

The Race for Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, 1978-80 was a donneybrook, if there was ever one, as reported in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s.  The candidates were Appropriations Chairman Ed Fortune (D., Pace), Commerce Chairman John Forbes (D., Jacksonville) and Governmental Operations Chairman Hyatt Brown (D., Daytona Beach).  By most accounts, Forbes was the early leader with strong support from the lobbyists.  Fortune had the solid support of Speaker Don Tucker’s(D., Tallahassee) conservative North Florida members.  Brown had the support of the new members, although large in number, terribly inexperienced and untested.  After a long and hard fought campaign, the race came down to Fortune and Brown, with Fortune gaining commitments by the minute to get to the magic 60 votes.  The final decision occurred the night of the popular “Red Neck Party,” to which all members were invited, and almost all attended.  While most members were enjoying the party, the Brown Team secretly secured pledges from it’s supporters.  Sometime in the early hours of the next morning, Rep. Bill Sadowski (D., Miami) signed the 60th pledge for Brown to become the next Speaker.  The Fortune camp woke up that morning without even a clue of what happened, while most of them were partying.  That day, Rep. Brown showed Speaker Tucker the 60 signed pledges, and asked for a Caucus vote and received it.  Hyatt Brown was elected Speaker-Designate for the 1978-80 Session that afternoon.

Is Chiles Dialing In A New “Walk?”

The late former Florida Governor Lawton Chiles first made famous his “walk” the state in winning an upset election to the U.S. Senate in 1970. Many attribute the genius behind the media grabbing strategy to his family, particularly his wife Rhea, and son Lawton “Bud” Chiles II (a future-to-be political consultant whiz).

Fast forward to 2009–Bud Chiles is currently mounting a state wide effort to highlight Florida’s abysmal ranking in funding public education and social services. It is not clear if he is suggesting new taxes, that is unlikely. But, it would appear from most newspaper and internet editorials, that he has hit a growing nerve of public concern. Some are suggesting that, like almost 40 years ago, the Chiles’ family is laying the ground work for a statewide political campaign…probably for the democratic nomination for Governor, but this time it is Lawton “Bud” Chiles as the possible candidate. Don’t under estimate this possibility…Bud floated a trial ballon four years ago, and based on some television interviews of him this writier has watched, he still has the old Chiles’ panache. Now, where are those old “Walking Lawton” boots?

The Budget During The Golden Years

Most of the discussion during this years’ legislative session has been about the budget. Observers seem to agree that the negotiating process has been among the most acrimonious in memory, especially with the revelation of some pet projects of powerful legislators actually being funded. A look back at The Golden Years reveals at least one example of leadership which should be considered today. Thirty years ago, in 1979, Senate President Phil Lewis (D., West Palm Beach) asked that the Senate Appropriations Committee remove from further consideration, a major appropriations project scheduled for his district, due to the dire financial condition of the state coffers. The result was that the other Senators on the Committee also asked that their appropriations projects be removed from further consideration by the Committee, out of a feeling of guilt. When is the last time you saw leadership like that in this legislature?

Lesson 14. From The Golden Years

“Do not commit your vote until you are certain about it and its probable results. If you are confident about that, commit and never break your word. If something happens to change your mind, obtain a release of responsibility from the person to whom you pledged your vote. This lesson was sancrosanct during my service in the legislature, but adherence to it is quite rare today, I am told.”*

*Page 157, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislatrue, ’70s and ’80s.This is more true today than ever.

What is a “Chit” and Why is it Important?

With the 2009 Session of the Legislature history, the usual criticism of “politics as usual” has surfaced among both Democrats and Republicans. To understand success in the process is really not that complicated. At the center of the political process is something called a “Chit”–essentially a recognition of support from a legislator, and a reciprocation of support to that legislator. As I said in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, it is very similar to “you scratch my back, I scratch yours.” The key is keeping track of your chits, and not forgetting to use them. It can mean the difference between a successfull session and a bummer. How effective the current legislators were in the 2009 Session remains a question.

Will McCollum Freeze Like a ‘Deer in the Headlights?’

Republican Attorney General Bill McCollum is a well know politican in Florida. He has served several terms in the Congress and was elected state-wide as Attorney General. He is now an announced candidate for Governor on the Republican ticket, and the clear favorite to win nomination. But, he has also lost elections–more than once. He is hardly a ‘fresh’ and exciting new face on the political horizon. And, for the heavily partisan, he will always be remembered for his shrill and mean spirited questioning during the Clinton impeachment herarings. Now, comes the possibility of some competition out of the blue…or make that red. Former State Senator Dan Webster (R., Orlando) and current State Senator Paula Dockery (R., Lakeland). This could get interesting…
One Tallahassee observer asked a good question, “Will McCollum freeze up like a deer in the headlights?” Time will tell.

The Gold…2009 Session of the Florida Legislature

My book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s describes extraordinary lawmakers serving during extraordinary times. Although the times are different, there are still extraordinary legislators serving Florida. Although I am not a lobbyist, I do live in Tallahassee and often talk to legislators, lobbyists, reporters, and folks about the process and the players. Based on collective thinking, I would like to announce the outstanding lawmakers, in my opinion, from each party, serving in the 2009 Session.

Representative Ellen Bogdanoff (R., Ft. Lauderdale). A lawyer by trade, she served as the most influential chair of powerful House of Representatives’ Finance and Tax Council. Easily the outstanding intellectual in either body of the legislature. Candidate for the state senate in 2010.

Representative Ron Saunders (D., Key West). Also a lawyer by trade, and one of the most experienced lawmakers in either body. Partly due to weak leadership in his party, Ron became “the” strategist for the Democrats, and is scheduled to become Speaker during the critical reapportionment session, if the Democrats win control of the House.

In the authors’ opinion no senators merited consideration for this recognition.

1974 House HRS Staff–Best Ever

Perhaps the best example of the quality of people serving Florida during the Golden Years of the Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, was the staff of the House of Representatives Committee on Health and Rehabilitative Services starting in1974. That was the first committee to which I was assigned, and I worked very closely with the staff as Chairman of one of the Subcommittees. The list is a “Who’s Who” of Florida Government over the next 30 years– David Pingree, Staff Director, later Secretary of the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services; Tom Herndon, Staff Director, later Chief of Staff to Governor Chiles; Marjorie Turnbull, Staff Director, later member of the House of Representatives; John Phelps, Subcommittee Staff Director, later Clerk of the House of Representatives; Susan Mabe, Subcommittee Staff Director, later federal lobbyist; David Coburn, Staff Member, later Senate Appropriations Staff Director; Peter Mitchell, Staff Member, later Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Bill Nelson; Kandy Hill, Staff Member, later Chief of Staff to Senate President Johnson; Mike Cusick, Staff Member, later prominent lobbyist; Ed Moore, Staff Member, later President of The Independent Colleges and Universities; and Ree Sailors, Staff Member, later lead staff person for what became known as the McKnight Commission on Health Care. Floridians should be grateful for their exemplary service.

Lesson No. 1–Learn the Rules

 I am often asked what in politics is the most important lesson to remember.  You will find it on page 157 in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s.  “It is important to not only learn, but also memorize the rules of the chamber in which you are serving.  This is the most important tactical advantage you can secure in the legislative arena.”  I learned this important lesson from three of the giants of the legislature, one a Democrat (later turned Republican), Senator Dempsey Barron (D., Panama City);  a Republican, Senator Ken Plante (R., Orlando); and an unknown party affiliation, the Clerk of the Florida House of Representatives, Dr. Allen Morris.  Most legislators do not take their profession as serious as they should, and some are just plain lazy.  But those that consider lawmaking a craft, which it is, will hone their craft through a thorough and complete understanding of the rules.  Keep in mind, the rules are subject to both change and interpretation by the presiding officer.  All the more important to know the rules well.

The Golden Class of 1966

With this theme of excellence, the ultimate question asked is usually which legislators were the very best elected to represent Florida?  It is, of course, a judgment call and as I said in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, I may be in error– there certainly may be others that I do not identify that deserve consideration.  But, I personally believe the reapportionment resulting in the election of 1966, especially in the House of Representatives, most closely reflected the greatest number of legislators, typical of the “Golden Years,” to serve for a single period of time.  In my opinion, clearly 1/3 of the entire class were deserving of mention here:

Representatives Bill Andrews, Phil Ashler, Maxine Baker, George Caldwell, Bill Chappell, Gus Craig, John Culbreath, Sandy D’Alemberte, Paul Danahy, Murray Dubbin, Maurice Ferre, George Firestone, Ed Fortune, Bill Gillespie, Elton Gissendanner, Bob Graham, Mary Grizzle, Joel Gustafson, Marshall Harris, Bob Hartnett, Bob Hector, Dick Hodes, Bill James, Gerald Lewis,  Bob Mann, Elvin Martinez, Bob Middelmas, Wayne Mixson, Ken Myers, Dick Pettigrew, Jim Redman, Don Reed, John Ryals, Walter Sackett, Dan Scarborough, Fred Schultz, Terrell Sessums, Guy Spicola, Jim Tillman, Don Tucker, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ralph Turlington.  As you might expect, the major contributions made by all of these lawmakers was during the 1970’s and 80’s, representing their growth in office, and impact within the legislative process.  Therefore, in my opinion, this was truly The Golden Class of 1966.

Sage Advice From Senator Bob Graham

Senator Bob Graham (D., Florida) is mentioned in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, no less than 13 times.  He should have received more coverage in the book.  He was one of the smartest and most decent public servants I have ever met.  We shared an Air Florida flight from Tallahassee to Miami in 1974 that I will never forget.  I was a freshman in the Florida House of Representatives, and the subject of a weekend Miami Herald feature artice on new legislators.  Sensing that the article might ‘go to my head’, the Senator advised me to concentrate on one or two legislative issues, and try to become a recognized expert on those issues.  He said the result could be that I would gain early and surprising influence among my colleagues, the staff and press, on those two issues.  He advised against yielding to the temptation to speak on all issues in committee or the floor.  I tried to follow his advice, and sure enough, I was appointed by the leadership in the House of Representatives and the Senate to chair the two committees holding responsibility for the issues I selected–human resources and natural resources.  This was indeed, “Golden” advice from Senator Bob Graham.

The “Attack on Entebbe”

The press described the 1977 clandestine campaign for Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, as the Florida version of the ”Attack on Entebbe,” loosely mirroring the acclaimed Israeli sneak attack in Uganda.  The candidate was Representative Hyatt Brown (D., Daytona Beach), and I found myself among a small handful of Brown supporters organizing the secret campaign.  Our effort was successful, but barely, and not with any time to spare (ending at sun up the next day, with one vote to spare).  Historians have looked upon the “Attack” as the final death blow to the “Pork Choppers,” long time political power brokers primarily from North Florida, that held vise-like control over Florida politicans, until this election.  As I said in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, “The methodology was somewhat unceremonious, but it was lasting and historic.”

The “Askew Technique”

Governor Reubin Askew was a very successfull chief executive for the state of Florida almost from his first term swearing-in.  Some political observers were surprised because he did not have any executive experience, while others attributed the success to his staff, which came by way of his Lieutenant Governor Tom Adams.  But, I can tell you, he had a ”way” of getting a point across–witness page 49 of my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s:  “…Governor Askew–he was known for keeping members’ voting records on old envelopes in his coat pocket.  I recall once when Susan and I were in the receiving line at the governor’s mansion and as we approached him, he pulled out his tattered envelope.  He looked at it, and said, “Nice to see you today Susan.  I can’t say the same for your husband after his awful vote this afternoon on House Bill 804.”  I ended up shaking hands with myself, and can tell you, it doesn’t take too many of those “reminders” to begin checking with the governor’s staff before casting votes in the House of Representatives.”  It was the vintage “Askew Technique.”

“Mr. Speaker, I Believe That a Family That Gambles Together, Stays Together.”

Some pundits have described a part of my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, as a series of short stories or vignettes about my experiences in the Senate and House.  If that’s the case, one of my favorites is the story on page 65 of one of the most colorful (and powerful) lawmakers I ever met, Representative Gus Craig (D., St. Augustine).  We seldom, if ever, voted alike, but boy, I sure liked the panche of our distinguished Rules Chairman.  I remember him most when he was moving a bill of vital interest to the parimutual industry on children possibly being exposed to gambling at the race tracks.  When encountering strong floor objections from his usual allies on the conservative right, Craig looked up at Speaker Tucker, and bellowed, “Mr. Speaker, I believe that a family that gambles together, stays together…move the bill Mr. Speaker.”  The bill failed of adoption by a large margin and the House was broken up in laughter for over 15 minutes.  What a guy!!!

Former Speaker Sansom’s Possible Trial in the Capitol is Not The First…

Observers of Florida politics will no doubt, have all eyes on the Capitol next month when the House of Representatives takes up the issue of Former Speaker Ray Sansom’s (R., Fort Walton Beach) alleged misconduct.  One very real possibility is a formal trial with the possible penalty being expulsion, reprimand or otherwise.  It may surprise some that this is not the first such action occuring in the present Capitol.  Former Representative Fred Lippman, (D., Hollywood) was brought before the House on an alleged sex related charge.  But the first to occur in the present Capitol and one releated to financial misconduct, was that of my opponent, Former Senator Ralph Poston (D., Miami) in 1977.  Since I wrote about it in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, my publisher has advised me to defer on the details.  But I can say the result was a guilty verdict and a formal reprimand for the 14 year legislative veteran of the House and Senate.  In 1978 I beat Senator Poston and another former Senator, Don Gruber (R., Coconut Grove) to win the District 38 seat in the Florida Senate.

“I Have Seen More People On A Motorcycle!!”

As almost any candidate will tell you, there are highs and lows in campaigns–well I am here to say, the highs can be as high as the sky, and the lows, can be…well…One of my campaign lows occurred in my first campagin, described in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s.  Surprisingly, we had received the endorsement of both the Miami Herald and the Miami News, as well as other important individual expressions of support.  So at our next campagin event, we decided to invite the distinguished Chairman of the Florida House of Representatives Rules Committee, Murray Dubbin, (D., Miami) to attend our event, as a special guest of honor.  Even though I was running against a long time incumbent, State Representative Jeff Gautier (D., Miami), Dubbin said he would attend, which he did.  We worked for weeks to prepare a high profile event in Kendale Lakes…result…well, as one observer said, “I have seen more people on a motorcycle.”  That was my campaign low.

“For What Reason Does The Gentleman…Awake?”

Dr. Walter Sackett (D., Miami) was a veteran member of the Florida House of Representatives, and probably best known for being the first author of “Death With Dignity” legislation in the country.  As I point out in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, Wally was accustomed to a nap now and then, especially after long floor sessions of boring debate.  I sat next to him on the floor, when he surprised everyone in the Chamber by standing and appealing to the Speaker of the House, Don Tucker (D., Tallahassee) to be recognized.  Tucker, with a rapier like wit looked at Sackett and bellowed, “For What Reason Does the Gentleman, Dr. Sackett, AWAKE?”  The Chamber was in bedlam with laughter.  Wally was a fine Floridian.

The Water War of 1976

There have been many water wars in Florida politics, of course.  This one occurred in 1976, and was significant because it was resolved through a very unusual coalition–of urban Democrats and Republicans.  The architects of the Coalition were 2 smart cookies from Pinellas County (a County in need of water)–County Manager Merritt Steirheim and State Representative Curt Kiser (R., Clearwater).  State Representative Paul Steinberg (D., Miami Beach) and I were the Dade County (a county in need of political representation on the South Florida Water Management District) Delegation members on the House Natural Resources Committee, that was the venue for the war.  We sat down and mapped out what was then uheard of–an Urban Coalition of Democrats and Republicans to take on the establishment rural power brokers in a good ole donneybrook,  Water War.  The result–a victory for the Urban Coalition because we had the votes.  But without the vision, wisdom and toughness of Steirheim, Kiser and Steinberg, who knows what the outcome would have been?

Obama Should Study The “Askew Technique”

President Barack Obama is now receiving his “evaluation” of his second 100 days in office.  Many critics are faulting his lack of delivering results.  Few, even his critics, suggest he lacks intelligence, charm, and wit–indeed, he excels  in all of those areas.  In my opinion, he could use a lesson from one of my political mentors, former Florida Governor Reubin Askew.  As I indicated in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, Askew had a technique of clearly sending a message to politicians  if he was displeased with their actions–ignoring them, scolding them, taking retribution against them–usually not just once, by the way.  Former President Lyndon Johnson  probably went too far…using information obtained by FBI Director J. Edward Hoover for leverage against members of Congress to achieve his political agenda.  But clearly, Obama needs to send a message to friends and foes alike–if you continue to oppose me, there is going to be a “price to pay,” and DO IT.  As I said in my book, the “Askew Technique” sure worked on me.

Quick…First Lt. Governor of Florida?

Since the release of my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, I have heard from a number of old friends and colleagues questioning the whereabouts of former legislators, lobbyists, and staff from the era.  Actually, I am told the book has even given rise to a  renewed interest in triva– like asking, ” can you  recall…?”  I highlighted former Governor Claude Kirk (R., Florida), among others  in the book,  and he had the distinction of selecting the first Lt. Governor in 1967.  It was a little know legislator from St. Petersburg, Ray Osborne.  Those following Lt. Governor Osborne were Tom Adams, Jim Williams, Wayne Mixson, Bobby Brantley, Buddy MacKay, Frank Brogan, Toni Jennings, and Jeff Kottkamp.  Governors Mixson and MacKay went on to serve as Governor.  For future state office holders, there is a lot of talent and institutional memory among the living Lt. Governors.

Florida’s Best Governor…Not Elected

He went from a scholar-athlete at Paxon High School in Jacksonville to Princeton on a basketball scholarship.  There he graduated with honors and played on the championship Tiger team with former U.S. Senator Bill Bradley (D., New Jersey).  He took his law degree, again with honors,  from Harvard University.  After serving as an adviser on complicated tax issues to then Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, Fred Shultz (D., Jacksonville), Steve Pajcic (D., Jacksonville) went on to win a seat in the House in 1974.  That is when Susan and I met he and Anne, and became very good friends.  Perhaps not surprising, Steve went on to serve with great distinction in the Legislature for 12 years, chairing major committees in the House, including the power Finance and Tax Committee.  Still, when he ran for Governor in 1986, he was a decided underdog to primary favorites like Attorney General Jim Smith (D., Tallahassee) and Senate President Harry Johnston (D., West Palm Beach).  Along with Shultz, I was honored to serve as  his statewide Co- Chair, and because of Steve’s extraordinary talents, we pulled off an upset in the primary.  There were some hard feelings from that race, and it resulted  in a splintering of Steve’s Democratic  support in the final race against the winner, Governor Bob Martinez (D., Tampa).  Steve, in my opinion, is the best Florida Governor…not elected.

‘…start in the dempsey dumpster…’

One thing Democrats and Republicans have in common–whomever is in power, always calls for investigations of the other.  My former boss, the late Florida Governor (and U.S. Senator) Lawton Chiles has a favorite expression when the subject of investigations came up.  He would refer to his professional staff on the U.S. Senate Budget Committee, which he so ably chaired in the ’80s, saying, “They were the best…they always started looking in the dempsey dumpster.”  He was cetainly right–look where you least expect it.   I really think Governor Chiles enjoyed his service in the executive branch much more than the legislative branch.  He seemed to get frustrated with the indeciveness  of the Senate, and particularly the outright breaking of one’s word among colleagues.  He was one of Florida’s most popular and most effective Governors, having started his policial  career in the House of Representatives  from Imperial Polk County during the Golden Years of Florida politics.

Mr. President…Lugar and Graham…now

In my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, I opine on who might have made great Presidents.  One is Senator Richard Lugar (R., Indiana).  Another former Senator highly profiled in my book is former Senator and Governor of Florida Bob Graham (D., Florida).  With the health care debate in such shambles now, I recommend the adoption of the debate issues that can be passed now, on a bi-partisan basis,  and then for the bigger and tougher issues like the “public option,”  the appointment  of a “Social Security type Commission,” similar to that so successfully used during the Reagan years.  The key to such a direction are the chair(s) appointed.  I think we recall the outstanding bi-partisan leadership of Senators Dole (R., Kansas) and Pepper (D., Florida) that resulted in program saving results.  Mr. President, you might even want to grant to such a Commission, similar powers to  those granted the “Base Closing” Commission–take it or leave it recommendations, no changes.  In any event, Mr. President,  it is time for you to call on great, bi-partisan Americans like Senators Lugar and Graham to help us resolve this acrimonious debate.

“Declare Victory…Then, Retreat”

In most serious discussions of military or even political conflict, when an impasse occurs,  the thorny question of ‘what do we do now’? often comes up.  Some say President Obama is nearing that question on both his Health Care Reform proposal as well as the troop level question in both Iraq and Afghanistan.  It brings to mind a similar question raised during  the height of  the Vietnam War.  When questioned about our country’s next best step, a venerable senior member of the United States Senate reportedly declared, “Let’s declare victory, and then retreat.”  The identity of the author has largely been forgotten, but it was a very respected Republican from Vermont, Senator George Aiken.  The tactic has been used many times since Vietnam, and no doubt, will be used many times again  in the future–look for it.

Woman’s Equality Day…30 Years Earlier

August 26th is Woman’s Equality Day.  I was present 30 years earlier,  during the annual session of the Florida Legislature, when all the country was watching the Florida Senate deliberate  on the issue of woman’s rights.   The legislation  was the potential ratification by Florida of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), with its’ potential adoption by the Florida Senate, of which I was one of forty.  The setting was tense– the House had already passed the bill, and when the Senate last voted, it failed of adoption by a vote 19-21, with four Senators previously supporting it,  then opposing the ERA.  Since I had defeated one of the four, and I was pledged to vote for it,  the vote was expected to be razor thin, with the vote going either way.  Ominously, the powerful Dean of the Senate, Dempsey Barron (D., Panama City) vehemently opposed it.   To the pro-ERA forces, they were subjected to two defections on that day in 1979, and it went down to what would become the  final defeat by a vote of 19-21 again.  Look for the issue to come back again, now 30 years later.

Senators Kennedy and Barron…What They Had in Common

Yes, the late Senators Edward Kennedy (D., Mass.) and Dempsey Barron (R., Panama City) were very different– their levels of service, liberal versus conservative, and gregarious versus  pugnacious, among others.   But they also had a lot in common–both bright, good memories, tenacious, enduring, recognized  by the press,  energetic, and perhaps most important of all–they could both deliver solid  blocks of votes.  Senator Kennedy’s base was the liberal wing of the Democratic Party, and when the going got tough, the liberals flat out trusted Teddy.  In the Florida Senate, Dempsey Barron crafted the first of many coalitions of Republicans (he was a Democrat at the time) and Conservative Democrats–long before there were “Blue Dogs.”  In a sense, both legendary lawmakers had extraordinary clout because their influence created a sense of “predictability” to the political landscape.  You didn’t need to look for surprises when Senator Kennedy and Senator Barron took you on–you were in for the fight of your life, and you damn well better have brought your lunch.

“Loose Lips, Sink Ships”

Veterans of military service are generally aware of the cautionary word spread in WWII.  One should be very careful in commentary, especially for attribution.  Governor Crist,who in fairness did not serve in the military, would have been smart to heed the caution, before his public criticism of President Obama’s appointment of Justice Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court.  It drew an immediate and spirited response from Miami’s legendary former Mayor, Maurice Ferre (see my Quorum Call).  The Mayor, like the new Justice is a proud Puerto Rican, and Ferre went so far as to say he is now thinking of joining the race for the U.S. Senate against Crist.  Today’s discussion is about Crist’s questionable judgment in his decisions–like the appointment of Senator-to-be George LeMieux and even Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp–obviously decisions that put a priority on Crist’s interest above that of the state.  But his bigger screw up might have been his unnecessary remark about a highly regarded minority, representing a substantial political base in Florida–and a very angry former distinguished Mayor from a Miami, one of Florida’s most substantial communities.

Legislative “Reform”…A Cynic’s View

Webster defines the word, reform as “to improve by removing faults and weakness…”  Who could be opposed to that?  Ever notice how many state and national initiatives are tagged, “reforms”  as they are introduced?   Reform what?  Reform it how?  Who are the reformers behind the so-call reform and what is really in the initiative?  In my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, I talk about the goods and bad effects of clever political “handlers.”  In my opinion,  there is an exaggerated lexicon architecture in politics today.  I am as guilty as the next politician for  trying to spin issues in a light favorable to me.  But, I really think it is disingenuous to tag a legislative proposal  as a reform at the outset–in my opinion, that automatically directs the unknowing audience to an initial  favorable response.  Almost  all of us, at least initially, want to “improve by removing faults and weakness,”  almost any issue.  Call the issue what it is candidly , and let the audience decide whether it is a reform or not, on their own.  This is my “Blog Reform” message for today.

Psst….New Health Plan Solution By The R’s…

According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, the Republicans have launched a new ”salvo” to solve our nation’s health care crisis.  In the absence of any other known announcements bearing the RNC Chairman’s approval, the Grand Ole Party is declaring war against any changes to Medicare, especially for the burgeoning number of ”Boomers” and military and war veterans (Vietnam, Bosnia, Iraq I and Iraq II).  The declaration does not include any funding proposals for the growth of the program or cost cutting ideas.  Talk about a bold stroke–it doesn’t propose responsibility for anyone, and panders to a major voting block.  These guys are good.  There is no acknowledgment in the announcement  that these are essentially the same guys that opposed the original creation of Medicare, and have tried to cut the program for years.  And also never mind that their opponents have had a long standing record of protecting Medicare.  RNC Chairman Michael Steele is at least partially clairvoyant to see that the Boomer/Veteran voting block, coupled with gargantuan AARP vote is too big to ignore.  When are we going to have a real national debate on health care?

Lt. Gov. Jim Williams (D., Ocala)…Rock Solid

Mentors and role models–we hear a lot about them today, especially as it relates to athletes and now politicians.  As I described in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, mine was a Democrat turned Republican, Senator Jerry Thomas (R., Tequesta).  But another one that comes to mind was Lieutenant Governor Jim Williams (D., Ocala).  I thought of Jim when writing a recent post on “Florida’s Best Governor, Never Elected”–former State Representative Steve Pajcic (D., Jacksonville).  Lt. Gov Williams was a conservative  policy maker with a very different style than Steve.  But, make no mistake, Jim Williams was a rock solid individual with great integrity.  He and his running mate, former State Senator Betty Castor (D., Tampa) may have been the best running mate tandem never elected as Governor and Lieutenant Governor in the State of Florida.

Section 382.085, Florida Statutes (CS/SB 293)

The most chilling legislation I ever worked on was the statutory definition of “Brain Death.”  Years before the controversial Terry Schiavo case, there was the equally emotional Terry Ann Quinlen case, both dealing with the definition of death.  I can still recall my many discussions on the gut wretching issue  in 1980 with the very respected lobbyist and attorney representing the Florida Catholic Conference, Tom Horkan.  As the Chairman of the Florida Senate Committee on Health and Rehabilitative Services, as well as the Senate Subcommittee funding health care, I was in a position to bring all of Florida’s legislative resources to the table to try to give the public some statutory direction on the definition of at least one form of death.  Since I was not an attorney nor of the catholic faith, I allegedly came to the issue without an obvious agenda.  Working with the Catholic Conference, The Florida Bar, The Florida Hospital Association, The Florida Medical Association, and many others, we were able to craft a bill that passed the Senate, House, and that Governor Bob Graham (D., Florida) signed into law on October 1, 1980.  I am very proud to report Section 382.085, Florida Statutes is still on the books today, and hopefully providing some statutory direction to the public on this very emotional issue.

Senator Paula Dockery…Head’s Up

Senator Paula Dockery (R., Lakeland) has confirmed that she is looking at running for Governor against her own party’s favorite, Attorney General Bill McCullom (R., Florida).  Other than the obvious (like she may just be trolling to be his running mate), head’s up on the following:

1.  She is a competent and tenacious lawmaker–just look at the high speed real project in central Florida.

2.  Some polls show the public really feels ‘it is time for women’–no doubt, at least a partial after election sympathy from the Clinton-Obama slugfest of 2008.

3.  Keep your eye on the Senator’s husband–”Doc” Dockery, a political mastermind and machine like fund raiser.

As I said in an earlier post, the Attorney General has a habit of looking like a ‘deer in the headlights’ in political fights at times, and this potential opponent is just the opposite.  Head’s up.

Rep. Jack Shreve’s Clairvoyance…on Water.

Former State Representative Jack Shreve is best known for his outstanding work as the Public Counsel in front of the Florida Public Service Commission.  Only the old timers will recall his outstanding  freshman (and only) term in the Florida House of Representatives in 1972-74, representing Brevard County.  During that term, the major issues revolved around the environment, and the landmark Enivronmental Land and Water Management Act of 1972 (“ELMS”).  Although he was just a freshman, he was obviously a bright attorney, and dove into the issue head long.  He ended up the House author of the massive legislation reforming Florida’s administration of its’ valuable resource–our water.  The legislation is still heralded today as landmark in the country.  Although well known for his work with the PSC, Jack Shreve should also be remembered for his clairvoyance during the Golden era of the Florida Legislature.

“Senator, We Must’a Missed The Meeting Before The Meeting.”

The Dean of the Florida Senate, Dempsey Barron (D., Panama City) said that to me while we were sitting together in the Governor’s office, waiting for a meeting requested by then Governor Bob Graham (D., Florida).  We watched as two members of the House of Representatives negotiating team on the budget strolled past us.  This and other somewhat private matters are drawn from my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature…The ’70s and ’80s.  Anyway, the wily legislative veteran was right, as usual.  We were invited to what was billed as a pivotal meeting on the almost always existent budget impasse between the House and Senate in 1981.  However, it turned out that the Governor’s office had orchestrated a clandestine meeting with the House to occur before the clandestine meeting with the Senate.  Busted.

Howard Walton…Most Powerful Staffer…Probably Ever

Those legislators and lobbyists who worked in the Florida Capitol during the Golden Era of the Legislature, the ’70s and ’80s, will tell you that the most powerful staffer… probably ever…was the Senate Executive Director, Howard Walton.  That, of course, is my opinion, but I am willing to bet the farm that I am right in most cases.  In my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, I profiled Howard as one of the Five Outstanding Unelected Public Officials with whom I served during that time.  I did not always see eye to eye with Howard mind you, but when I saw him moving around on the floor–ostensibly to serve his clients, the Senators, I would break out in a cold sweat.  That was especially true when I saw him conferring with the Dean of the Senate (and usually my foe), Dempsey Barron(D., Panama City).  But I have to admit, Howard was the consummate professional, smart as a whip, and even had a seldom noticed sense of humor.  As they say, “they threw away the mold,” after Howard Walton left the Florida  Senate.

“…if you are going after the king, kill him, don’t wound him…”

These scary words, or something like them were uttered by The Majority Leader of the Florida House of Representatives, 6-4″ Rep. Dick Clark (D., Miami) in 1976.  They were directed toward Clark’s colleague in the House and the Dade Delegation, Rep. Barry Kutun (D., Miami Beach).  Although Barry was appointed by the Speaker, Don Tucker (D., Tallahassee) to chair the important House Committee on Health and Rehabilitative Services, Kutun surprised many by opposing the Speaker’s quest for an unprecedented second term as Speaker.  Tucker ended up winning re-election, by an assumed secret ballot, and as in ‘to the victor go the spoils,’ Kutun was replaced as Chair of the Committee almost immediately by Rep. Elaine Gordon (D., Miami Beach).  I was still in my freshman term in the House, and it was a real awakening about how big league politics were played during The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s.

“You should be ashamed of yourself…”

I still remember very well the first time I met Governor Reubin Askew (D., Pensacola) in 1974.  I was in my first committee meeting in the Florida House of Representatives, having  just voted for a bill transferring the Department of Natural Resources from the Governor’s Office to the Cabinet.  I really didn’t know much about the issue, but the House Majority Leader Dick Clark told me the Speaker would appreciate my vote for the bill.   It looked like it was going to pass anyway, so I thought I would vote for it.  I didn’t notice a gentleman named Jim Apthorp (the Governor’s Chief of Staff), sitting in the audience, when I got the note saying the Governor wanted to see me.

When I walked into the Governor’s office for the first time, a few minutes later,  and looked around, I heard a thunderous boom in front of me.  Governor Askew had slammed his fist on his desk and was shouting at me, “You should be ashamed of yourself getting tricked into voting that bill out of committee today.”  After gathering my senses, I figured out that the Governor did not want me to vote yes–even though no one from his office had said anything to me.  He went on to say how much he was counting on me…etc., etc.  As I said in my book, The Golden Years…The Florida Legislature, ’70s and ’80s, upon leaving his office, I noticed my clothes were dripping wet from nervous perspiration.  I felt I needed to take a shower.