Longest Serving Florida AG Butterworth Endorses Crist

Florida's longest-serving Attorney General, Bob Butterworth (D), has just endorsed Florida Rep. Charlie Crist (D) for Governor. Calling him “a tested leader,” Butterworth enthusiastically endorsed Crist, releasing a statement of support and calling Crist “the only candidate capable of uniting Floridians.”

In the soon-to-be highly contested Democratic gubernatorial primary, Rep. Crist is facing state Senator Annette Taddeo (D) and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried (D). In his last attempt at winning re-election as governor in2014,  his then gubnatorial running mate was Senator Taddeo.

Having served for 15 years, Buttorworth served from 1987 under Governor Bob Martinez (R) to Governor Jeb Bush (R) in 2002. During Crist’s term as Governor of Florida, Crist crossed party lines to appoint Butterworth as the lead of the Department of Children and Families. This is something that Butterworth highlighted in his endorsement.

“Charlie Crist has proven time and time again he will always put the people of Florida ahead of partisan politics – that’s why I’m proud to support my friend, Charlie, in his run for Governor,” said Butterworth in a news release. “A tested leader that millions across our state know and trust, Charlie is the only candidate capable of uniting Floridians and bringing real executive leadership to Tallahassee,” he added.

The Crist campaign noted that Butterworth referred to Crist as “a selfless public servant who’s willing to work with anyone to ensure the best for Florida.” Butterworth is also alleged to have said that “Charlie is the leader we need back in the Governor’s mansion.”

Calling Butterworth a “friend,” Crist affirmed that his “campaign continues to grow in strength, pulling support from all corners of the state and every level of leadership.”

“Together we are working tirelessly to turn the time and put Floridians back in charge,” said Crist.