'Empty Chair' Charlie Misses Work Often

'Empty Chair' Charlie Misses Work Often

In 2006, Charlie Crist ran for governor on a populist platform, pledging to be the "People's Governor," offering glimpses off a bright future for Florida on the horizon.

But now we learn that he hasn't showed up for work even half of the time. Where is Charlie Crist when we need him? His fellow Republicans have run amok in the state Legislature. "Empty Chair" Charlie's absenteeism and lack of leadership is a disservice to all Floridians.

We've had enough of the endless electioneering and infinite photo ops. Contrary to GOP delusions, we're now mired in a Republican recession. The governor has been getting a free pass from the media, but his hypocrisy is apparent.

He said he would come to work every day, but he doesn't. And we've got real problems to deal with in Florida. I don't know about you, but I'm concerned about rising insurance costs and living in the state leading the housing industry meltdown. I make sacrifices every day to make sure I can provide for my family, pay for gas and afford health care.

I'm certainly in a different position than Crist. I don't have access to lavish private jets and can't define my own hours. But I do know the difference between hard work and hardly working.

I know Florida can't afford to adopt a three-day work week. Crist shouldn't be able to get away with doing so, especially considering his promise to work hard for the people.

Barbara Diiorio

Port Richey

Put Cap On Property Taxes

We are hurting here in Hernando County. Our property taxes are too high and our property insurance is limited to a few companies, and too high. There are only a few jobs or no jobs to help supplement our Social Security.

Please place the 1.35 percent property tax cap on the schedule for the Finance and Tax committee immediately!

Florida taxpayers expect you to do their work and give us a choice on the ballot this year to cut our own taxes!

Linda Borowski

Weeki Wachee