Charlie Crist

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Charlie Crist's Veep Credentials Broken Down

By JJ Duncan on

Charlie Crist

Carole Rome and Charlie Crist

Born: July 24, 1956 (age 52); Altoona, Penn.
Fiancee: Carole Rome
Current Residence: Tallahassee, Florida
Religion: Methodist
College: Wake Forest University; Florida State University; Cumberland School of Law
Credentials: Florida State Senate 1992-1998; Education Commissioner of Florida 2000-2003; Attorney General - Florida 2003-2007; Governor of Florida 2007-present

The Good

Nicknamed "Chaingang Charlie" for his support of prison labor, he is seen as tough on crime
Successfully distanced himself from unpopular Bush administration
Progressive stances on environmental issues while still garnering support from Republican base

The Bad

Controversial contributions have damaged his reputation (most notably from Lou Pealman)
Reputation further damaged by association with Rev. O'Neal Dozier, who called Islam a cult
Are you sure he's not gay? (Nothing wrong with it. But having your VP uncloseted during a campaign is bad news.)

Charlie Crist is the George Hamilton of politics.

With his year-round tan, shock-white hair and debonair suits he looks more like a movie star than a governor. He's certainly the only 52-year-old politician who can avoid looking ridiculous with someone as young and hot as his fiancee Carole Rome. (OK, so she's only 14 years his junior, but wow.)

On the one hand, this slick, progressive style might win him points when McCain tries to appeal to centrist voters. But by the same token, that slickness is interpreted by many (even in his own state) as dishonesty.

While Crist has a reputation for being tough on crime and has successfully distanced himself from the Bush administration, it's hard to see him fitting in with John McCain. Then again, McCain could do worse.