So here we are in the most polarized, zero-sum political environment in memory, and Charlie Crist, the politically androgynous, ideological agnostic, still has a senatorial shot.
And even though he was chased out of the Republican primary and even though political self-interest has always been his signature trait, he has a viable shot in a three-way race. It’s the nature of three-way races. A plurality — or barely more than a third of the votes — can win it.
If enough people are as disgusted as they say they are about partisan animosities and gridlock, Crist could certainly benefit. In effect, he could harvest the “none of the above” vote. His appeal: pleasant person whose allegiance is to the people — not the party.
Of course, that only appeals to those who haven’t followed his career since he kickstarted it in 1998 by taking one for the team against unbeatable, incumbent Sen. Bob Graham in 1998. And then haven’t paid much attention to his empty-suited, pre-veto gubernatorial stewardship.
Lack of organization and savvy party support is a critical issue for a party-less candidate. That was already apparent at Crist’s well-trumpeted debut as an independent candidate last week in Straub Park in his hometown of St. Petersburg. The 5:45 event drew an estimated crowd of 300, much of it seemingly comprised of media and family members. Crist had the opportunity to deliver an anti-partisan, anti-pandering, anti-party, pro-America, pro-Florida speech that should still be cycling on YouTube. But it was “for the people” pablum more worthy of Morgan & Morgan ads.
But he did score Dick Greco to endorse and introduce him. It was more than a DINO and a RINO. The former Tampa mayor still matters and will be helpful behind the scenes as well.
And this much is certain. As a spectator sport, this will be a lot more fun than that Rubio-Meek campaign we were almost saddled with.