July 26, 2006
Office of Speaker Alan Bense

Bense marks the 51st Florida legislator to support Crist

TALLAHASSEE – House Speaker Allan Bense today endorsed Attorney General Charlie Crist’s campaign to become Florida’s next Republican Governor at a news conference held on the steps of the Old Capitol.

Joined by several legislators who had previously endorsed Crist, Speaker Bense spoke of Crist’s leadership as Attorney General, praising his commitment to consistent, conservative values.

“Charlie Crist is a principled leader who is well-suited to govern in the Jeb Bush tradition,” said Speaker Bense. “I am proud to support his candidacy for Governor and firmly believe his record of conservative values will lead the Republican Party to victory in November.”

“Speaker Bense is a true leader in every sense of the word, admirably leading in the House on issues from protecting the rights of property owners to ensuring the passage of legislation strictly limiting joint and several liability,” said Crist. “Alongside Governor Jeb Bush, Speaker Bense has provided strong, conservative leadership for the Republican Party. I am honored to have his friendship and his support.”

This announcement follows the endorsements of Senator Mel Martinez, former Senator Connie Mack, Sr. and Congressmen Mario Diaz-Balart and Jeff Miller. Crist has also been endorsed by 50 Florida legislators, 28 county sheriffs, Republican Executive Committees in Dixie, Bradford, Broward, Pasco and Pinellas Counties, and several statewide organizations, including doctors, nurses, law enforcement and builders.