'527s' Attack Justice, Confuse the Issues

State Representative Kim Berfield's campaign for the state senate is benefitting from independent expenditures paid for by outside groups. In the latest, her opponent, State Representative Charlie Justice (pictured above with Senator Bill Nelson) is once again being attacked for "neglecting the insurance crisis."

That this attack is ridiculous and misplaced is not in any doubt. Berfield is well known for carrying water for the insurance industry and was named Representative of the Year in 2004 by the Florida Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and the Florida Insurance Council. In addition, her campaign is being heavily funded by the insurance industry.

However, this is a smart attack. Voters are angry about the rising homeowners insurance rates and were beginning to be aware of where Berfield's loyalties are, but this attack sows confusion among the voters of SD 16. It also allows Berfield to appear to remain above the fray, while her supporters engage in a negative and misleading campaign against Justice. She is a smart campaigner and this may be enough for the insurance industry to keep one of their closest allies employed in Tallahassee.

As a voter, I'm appalled, as a political consultant, I'm impressed.