Rumors of a Meek Dropout Ignore That His Name Cannot Be Removed From the Ballot
A thinly-sourced article by conservative economist and former Club for Growth President Stephen Moore in last week’s Wall Street Journal alleging that Rep.
Author:Camilo WoodReviewer:Dexter CookeJul 31, 20204.4K Shares2.2M Views
A thinly-sourced article by conservative economist and former Club for Growth President Stephen Moore in last week’s Wall Street Journal allegingthat Rep. Kendrick Meek (D-Fla.) might drop out of the U.S. Senate race to allow independent candidate Gov. Charlie Crist to have a better chance at defeating Republican Marco Rubio in the race reignited persistentrumorsthat Crist would become the de facto Democratic nominee. (The Journal also reported friendly conversations between Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Crist last summer.) Meek’s camp immediately shot downthe suggestion and said that Meek laughed out loud when he read it.
However, most ignored whether it was a practical possibility or not.
According to Florida election law, after the primary, names cannot be removed from the ballot. However, if Meek were to remove himself from the race, the party could decide to place his votes for another candidate of the party’s choosing. But it does not appear that Crist could even be eligible to receive Meek’s votes. Law requires that “the person is not a registered member of any other political party and **has not been a candidate for nomination for any other political party for a period of 6 months preceding the general election **for which the person seeks to qualify” (emphasis added). Crist was a Republican until May 12 — five and half months ago — when he changed his voter registrationto run as an independent.
Anyway, such a move is unlikely to happen so late in the election, since early voting in Florida begins in just six days. The Florida Democratic Party also ran a tough ad in the strategic I-4 corridor and other markets against Crist, highlighting his conservative positions. James Carville and the Florida Democratic Party chairwoman Karen Thurman spoke to reporters Tuesday on a conference call, reaffirming that Meek would stay in.
Crist triedto get more Democratic voters on his side Tuesday when he agreed with a reporter’s suggestion that a vote for Meek was a vote for Rubio. Meek, on MSNBC Monday, said, “I am nominated by hundreds of thousands of voters in this state. … Charlie Crist walked down to the supervisor of elections office, became an independent because he wanted to get out of the kitchen with Marco Rubio. He had his chance to win.”
Both candidates have declined on whether the other should drop out, saying it’s their decision.
Camilo Wood
Author
Camilo Wood has over two decades of experience as a writer and journalist, specializing in finance and economics. With a degree in Economics and a background in financial research and analysis, Camilo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his writing.
Throughout his career, Camilo has contributed to numerous publications, covering a wide range of topics such as global economic trends, investment strategies, and market analysis. His articles are recognized for their insightful analysis and clear explanations, making complex financial concepts accessible to readers.
Camilo's experience includes working in roles related to financial reporting, analysis, and commentary, allowing him to provide readers with accurate and trustworthy information. His dedication to journalistic integrity and commitment to delivering high-quality content make him a trusted voice in the fields of finance and journalism.
Dexter Cooke
Reviewer
Dexter Cooke is an economist, marketing strategist, and orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience crafting compelling narratives that resonate worldwide.
He holds a Journalism degree from Columbia University, an Economics background from Yale University, and a medical degree with a postdoctoral fellowship in orthopedic medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina.
Dexter’s insights into media, economics, and marketing shine through his prolific contributions to respected publications and advisory roles for influential organizations.
As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery and laparoscopic procedures, Dexter prioritizes patient care above all.
Outside his professional pursuits, Dexter enjoys collecting vintage watches, studying ancient civilizations, learning about astronomy, and participating in charity runs.
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