Getting Sticky Down in Florida

By Zamboni

Now that the McCain-Palin feud has degenerated into the use of such terms as "diva" and "whack job," we cats are taking a moment to examine someone whom Senator McCain didn't choose for the Republican ticket: Florida Governor Charlie Crist.

Our sources in the Sunshine State tell us that Governor Crist was passed over as Vice President because, among other reasons, he belongs to a demographic not tolerated — oh, heck, just out-and-out condemned — by the Christian Right.

Now, we cats don't pass judgment on that, although we'll be interested to see if the snowy-haired non-nominee actually goes through with his wedding this December. What's really grabbing our attention today is that Mr. Crist has suddenly overridden his Republican legislature and extended early voting hours throughout the state from eight hours to 12.

A few thoughts pass through our minds between catnaps.

First, we can't imagine that this is good news for the Republicans. The Obama campaign has mounted an unprecedented early-voting effort in Florida. And our "cat on the street" interviews from Miami tell us that the folks waiting in those long, long lines are not doing it so they can vote for John McCain.

Second, we're thinking that if Governor Crist has his eye on 2012, he might be trying to demonstrate that he's the kind of inclusive, progressive Republican governor that Jeb Bush was supposed to have been but never was.

Finally, we're wondering if this is a bit of a payback to Senator McCain for picking the diva instead.

We cats watch with patient interest. In the meantime, we're taking nothing for granted. We were on the phone at Obama HQ just this afternoon, getting out the (now extended) vote.