Crist says Rubio ‘absurd’ for not wanting to count illegal immigrants in census

http://www.postonpolitics.com ^ | February 3rd, 2010 | by Michael C. Bender

[Maelstorm]

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune that illegal immigrants should not count in the census, a position that would cost the state federal money and one that puts him at odds with Gov. Charlie Crist — his primary opponent — as well as the Republican-controlled legislature.

Rubio’s spokesman told the paper that his position was based on “rightful representation in Congress and ensuring that every voter has an equal voice.”

Today, Crist, trailing Rubio in recent polls, called the former state House speaker’s position “absurd.”

“Florida deserves to have her fair share. And I think making sure that we count every single Floridian is vitally important. That’s why I went to the school yesterday in North Miami,” Crist said.

“It is important. It’s important to our state, it’s important to our people. And the notion that you would not want to accept federal funding to make a political statement is absurd.”

[Maelstorm]

It looks like Crist really doesn't want to win this primary. They aren't citizens they shouldn't count.

[CondoleezzaProtege]

Go Rubio!

I just found out about Allen West running for Florida’s 22nd district Congressional seat...wow what a candidate!

[Antoninus]

Crist is a guy with “Part of the Problem” stamped on his forehead.

[J40000]

ANY US polititian who wants ILLEGAL Alien votes to be counted in our elections is NOT fit for office.

[newfreep]

Another example that RINOs & liberals are really quite stupid.

[trumandogz]

It does not matter what Christ or Rubio believe about this issue as the Framers of the Constitution directed us to could all persons, not just citizens.

[chuck_the_tv_out]

illegals are "Floridians" according to Cist?

rinos are unbelievable.

[Pearls Before Swine]

They aren't citizens they shouldn't count.

I agree.

But, here's the rub: If they aren't citizens, they shouldn't be getting significant benefits from the government, either. Crist is starting from the assumption that they will get benefits, so the state should have the representatives to pull for them. A despicable situation.

[cripplecreek]

The only thing counting illegals will achieve is a redrawing of congressional lines.

[Maelstorm]

Yeah West is awesome.

[highlander_UW]

So does he want to include tourists as well? A census is pointless if it includes non-citizens. Might as well cancel the whole thing and save the money if they're going to create bogus numbers.

[NonValueAdded]

Charlie, they are not citizens. They do not vote. They skew the electoral map and give disproportionate representation. It is the wrong thing to do. We Floridians understand that just as the Nebraskans knew Nelson’s “deal” was the wrong thing to do.

[skeeter]

A perfect opportunity to make an example of republicans who buy into this kind of lunacy.

[freekitty]

It sure does and his statement reflects it.

[trumandogz]

“ANY US polititian who wants ILLEGAL Alien votes to be counted in our elections is NOT fit for office.”

I am not aware of any politician that has states that they want the votes of illegal aliens counted in elections.

[Batman11]

“I just found out about Allen West running for Florida’s 22nd district Congressional seat...wow what a candidate!”

Yup, Lt. Col. West is the real deal!!

[SunStar]

“Florida deserves to have her fair share. And I think making sure that we count every single Floridian is vitally important. That’s why I went to the school yesterday in North Miami,” Crist said.

Hmm... Are illegal aliens living in Florida actually "Floridians"?

[Maelstorm]

If states get more funds for illegals then they will have an incentive to not enforce immigration laws.

[whitedog57]

Crist. A McCain-type RINO is favor of giving amnesty/citizenship to drug-dealing felons.

Keep em all out and unemployment is solved as are most state budgets.

[mikelets456]

Oh my Gosh!! Rubio, you are a racist, bigot, intolerant....GREAT GUY!!! KEEP IT UP!!!