Florida legislators seek special elections for future Senate vacancies

Gov. Charlie Crist's decision to pick his top political adviser, George LeMieux, to fill the U.S. Senate vacancy was widely criticized, and now some lawmakers want to take that power away.

State Rep. Rick Kriseman, D-St. Petersburg, this week filed a bill (HB 213) mandating special elections in the event of future vacancies.

"The recent past has proven that the appointment process is flawed, allowing for too much cronyism," Kriseman said. "The people should decide, not one person."

Sen. Paula Dockery, R-Lakeland, has filed companion legislation.

LeMieux, 40, was tapped by Crist in August to finish the final 16 months of Sen. Mel Martinez's term after Martinez announced he was retiring. Crist, a Republican, is running for the seat in next year's election.

Asked about the legislation Tuesday, Crist said: "I prefer democracy," but added he was "happy to carry out my duty" and name a replacement for Martinez.

As for the bill's chances, he said, "Let's see if it gets to my desk."