Two prominent Republican fundraisers and supporters of Gov. Charlie Crist are raising money for the Democrat who hopes to succeed him, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink.

Rodney Barreto, chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the head of a Miami lobbying firm, is hosting a fundraiser for Sink tonight at his home. "She's a moderate Democrat. I look at her as I look at Charlie Crist ... I don't see her as a left-wing liberal. She's probably voted more with Crist than McCollum has."

Fort Lauderdale attorney Scott Rothstein held a Aug. 27 reception for Sink. "It went fantastic. Between hard and soft money, we raised about $240,000,'' Rothstein said. "I tend to be a moderate Republican."

Sink has tried to cultivate a neutral, businesswoman's image and avoids partisan politics - even though liberal groups like Emily's List are raising money for her campaign. Her Republican rival, Bill McCollum, has been knocking her for ducking the health care debate in Congress. Fair game? While she's running for an office in Tallahassee, not Washington, it's obvious that the legislation could have a major impact on the state budget.

Beth Reinhard, Miami Herald

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