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Charlie Crist Runs As Independent

Charlie Crist has dropped out of the Republican Party to run as an independent for the U.S. Senate. It has been anticipated for some time that he would do so, so it isn’t as if a lot of people are really that surprised or are immediately going to get payday loans to fill his opponents’ coffers. (Or maybe not?) Crist has a long service record in Florida, and he is fairly popular there.

Charlie Crist and the Republicans have broken up

The Charlie Crist announcement wasn’t unexpected, but other Republicans are asking for campaign funds back. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) made pleas in the press for Crist to return any funds from the PAC (Political Action Committee) that were given for his potential Senate campaign, and any requested funds back to donors, according to USA Today.

Running independent can be risky

Running as an independent can go several different ways. Name recognition is the biggest asset Charlie Crist has, according to the New York Times. He’s already well known to the people of Florida, whereas the other two candidates don’t have his lengthy record or popularity. His Republican opponent, Marco Rubio, has popularity among tea party types, but is thought to be a bit moderate for their taste. There are also allegations he used party funds for personal expenses. (A tea party person misusing funds? That could never happen!)

Independents don’t always fare too well

So far, independent candidates have not had the greatest success. Currently, there are two Independent Senators, Bernie Sanders and Joe Lieberman. There are only three independent governors ever (Jesse Ventura ran with a party and doesn’t count) and one President. (George Washington, believe it or not.) Third parties and independents don’t always fare that well. However, branding does – and that’s what Charlie Crist has. This will be worth watching.

Article Sources

USA Today

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/onpolitics/post/2010/04/cornyn-to-crist-give-back-gop-campaign-cash-/1

New York Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/29/us/politics/29cristcaucus.html

Charlie Sanders’ Reel