Crist leaving US House to focus on Florida governor race

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Democratic U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist submitted his resignation from Congress on Wednesday to concentrate on his gubernatorial marketing campaign in opposition to Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Crist mentioned in a cellphone interview Wednesday that his resignation could be efficient on the finish of the day. He famous that he spoke with Home Speaker Nancy Pelosi earlier than making the choice.

“She mentioned, ‘I perceive, however it appears to be like like we’re in fine condition, so it’s worthwhile to do what it’s worthwhile to do and it’s worthwhile to win this election. It’s essential and also you don’t have lots of time,’” Crist mentioned.

Crist served as Republican governor of Florida from 2007 to 2011. He later switched events, difficult and shedding to Republican Gov. Rick Scott in 2014. He was elected to the St. Petersburg-area congressional seat in 2016.

“I’m going to work arduous, get all around the state and win this factor. That’s the plan,” Crist mentioned. “I’ve cherished representing my house city and my house county. They’re fantastic folks and I sit up for the race forward and representing them within the governor’s workplace.”

Crist received the Democratic nomination for governor final week and has named United Academics of Dade President Karla Hernandez as his choose for lieutenant governor.

DeSantis additionally stepped down from Congress early after profitable the Republican nomination in 2018.

Crist appended his resignation announcement with a pitch to voters this fall.

“The selection is crystal clear right here. If you’d like a ladies’s proper to decide on to be protected, you vote for Charlie Crist; if you wish to be sure your vote counts, significantly for African-Individuals, you vote for Charlie Crist; if you’d like the training system to get the assist it deserves, you vote for Charlie Crist,” he mentioned.

Republican Anna Paulina Luna will face Democrat Eric Lynn, who labored in President Barack Obama’s administration, for Crist’s vacant seat in November.

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