Senate committee assignments
From a press release:
"Senate President Jeff Atwater (R-Palm Beach) today announced the appointment of Senator JD Alexander (R-Lake Wales) as the Chair of the Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means and Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla (R-Miami) as the Senate Majority Leader for the 2008-2010 term."
Other posts: Dennis Jones, Regulated Industries chair (ka-ching!); Lee Constantine, Judiciary chair (huh?), Mike Haridopolos, Policy Committe chair, Dave Aronberg was the only Democrat to chair a substantive committee (albeit one few wanted): Military Affairs and Domestic Preparedness
More press release stuff:
"Floridians clearly said on Election Day that they want their elected leaders to work together to solve problems," said President Atwater. "We face unprecedented economic challenges. However Florida has survived tough situations before. I have the utmost confidence in these two individuals and their commitment to Florida."
President Atwater also named the following Policy and Steering Committee chairs: Senator Gaetz, Senator King, Senator Haridopolos, and Senator Pruitt. The Policy and Steering Committees, under the leadership of the chairs, will hear legislation, work with their respective committee chairs, and set the special order calendar.
“I am grateful for the willingness of these individuals to dedicate their time and talents in this capacity,” President Atwater said. “These Senators will play a vital role in ensuring that legislation has been thoroughly studied and debated.”
Ways and Means - Senator JD Alexander (R-Lake Wales)
Senator JD Alexander is has one of the brightest minds in the Senate. He is known for his ability to grasp and understand complex issues and skillfully navigate the obstacles in order to identify and achieve successful solutions. Senator Alexander is a fifth generation Floridian. He was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1998, where he served two terms. In 2002, Senator Alexander was elected to the Senate. Most recently Senator Alexander chaired the Senate General Government Appropriations Committee.
Majority Leader - Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla (R-Miami)
Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla is known for his passion for service and skillful intellect. He will work tirelessly to assist his colleagues as they serve their constituencies; ensuring that they are successful public servants. Senator Diaz de la Portilla was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1994, where he served three terms. In 2000, he was elected to the Senate, where he served as President Pro Tempore 2002-2004. Most recently Senator Diaz de la Portilla chaired the Senate Commerce Committee.
Sen. Fasano took away the Majority Leader's power to set bills on the calendar. The only job Sen. de la Portilla can do now is bring lunch to the other senators. No really, lunch is served every day in the Majority Office and the "Leader" sets the menu. Sen. Diaz de la Portilla probably wanted the job so he can generate business for his failing Chinese restaurant in Tallahassee. If you don't believe me look it up, it's called Masa.
Posted by: Sam | December 03, 2008 at 06:10 PM
What great choices! Alexander rocks...
Posted by: albert Dupree | December 03, 2008 at 06:16 PM
Can I have an order of special flied lice please. And don't forget the fortune cookies.
Posted by: Alpert Dupee | December 03, 2008 at 06:27 PM
Hey "Sam"- I thought DLP's restaurant was doing great...Flied Lice anyone?
Posted by: albert Dupree | December 03, 2008 at 06:59 PM