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Crist Will Introduce Obama In Fort Myers Appearance

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By WILLIAM MARCH | The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 9, 2009

Updated: 02/09/2009 02:41 pm

TAMPA - Gov. Charlie Crist confirmed today he'll introduce President Barack Obama at a town hall meeting in Fort Myers Tuesday, where Obama will appear to push his economic stimulus package.

The issue has already separated Crist from other Republicans in the state.

All the Republicans in Florida's House delegation voted against the bill, and Sen. Mel Martinez has announced that he will oppose it also.

Crist said he's not concerned about the partisan politics involved.

"We need to be bipartisan in our approach," he said. "The issue here is to do what's right for the people."

Crist talked to reporters about the stimulus package while appearing today at the annual governor's lunch at the Florida State Fair in Tampa. He barely mentioned it in his speech, noting only that he's meeting with Obama.

In his prepared remarks, however, Crist said, "I continue to work with my colleagues and members of our Congressional delegation to ensure Florida receives our fair share. We want Florida to be positioned to use the money quickly in ways that jumpstart our economy."

State Chief Finance Officer Alex Sink said she'll be in Fort Myers also -- she didn't know whether she'll speak at the event -- and hopes to talk to Obama about expediting aid to Florida banks.

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