Copy Florida, governor tells Michigan GOP
Karen Bouffard / The Detroit News
Mackinac Island --Michigan can look to Florida as a model for how less spending and taxing can fix a sagging economy, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist told a record setting crowd of 2,100 people Friday night at the start of the 28th biennial Republican Leadership Conference on Mackinac Island.
State Republican Party Chairman Ron Weiser laid out the party's strategy for fixing Michigan's economy -- and recapturing political control in 2010 -- saying the GOP will deliver a message focused on jobs, family and hope at "Fix Michigan Centers" around the state where people can volunteer and get involved.
Several key Republicans, including House Minority Leader Kevin Elsenheimer, R-Kewadin, canceled plans to attend due to ongoing state budget negotiations. Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, R-Rochester, arrived about 7:30 p.m. but said he would return to Lansing on Sunday.
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Crist said Florida, much like Michigan, was plagued by high unemployment before he took over, cut spending, slashed taxes and focused on job creation. "Less taxing, less spending, less government, more freedom," Crist said. The conference continues through Sunday.
kbouffard@detnews.com (517) 371-3660
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