Friday Politics Baker passes on CD 13. Suprised?

Had Baker decided to run who ever the Democratic Primary winner is would have had a rocky road.

St. Petersburg, Fl

Opinion by: E. Eugene Webb PhD
Author: In Search of Robin

  

Former St. Pet Mayor Rick Baker's decision to pass on the Congressional race for House District 13 did not come as a shock as much as it did a let down to the Republican establishment.

I am not sure why they wanted to throw a sacrificial lamb on the political alter in Pinellas County but then as we all know the Republican leadership over all has not been thing straight lately.

CD13 is almost a slam-dunk for the Democrats, but I do not think that is why Baker passed. I worked for him for eight years and he is not afraid of a fight even when the odds are stacked against him.

 

Had Baker decided to run who ever the Democratic Primary winner is would have had a rocky road.

Here is my take on the Baker/Congress issue from back in March. Friday Politics - Rick Baker a different take

Below are comments from some local media:

From saintpetersblog Mitch Perry: Rick Baker decides not to run for Florida’s 13th Congressional District

From the Tampa Bay Times Adam Smith: Rick Baker won't run for Congress in Pinellas County

I have had a couple of very informal conversations with the former mayor over the last few months, and it never seemed his heart was in the congressional race. When Baker is excited about something, you can feel the energy from a couple of feet away. I never really got that when the conversation turned to CD 13.

When Baker talks about "going back into public service," the old twinkle returns to his eye, and you can start to feel that energy.

I have also noted that Baker's consistent response has been I would like to go back into public service. Not politics – public service.

There are many places Baker could serve, and he will excel at whatever he takes on.

For now, Charlie Crist, whom I think will win the primary and the general election for CD 13 can breathe a sigh of relief.

As for Baker, look for him to go quiet until after the Presidential election. The outcome of the presidential race could have a big impact on Baker's next move.

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Disclosures:
Contributor: Bob Gualtieri for Pinellas County Sheriff