Ray Sansom: Man of Values

Ray Sansom has stepped down as Speaker of the House.

"Effective immediately, I have decided to recuse myself from the exercise of my duties as Speaker of the House of Representatives. Ongoing legal proceedings have temporarily created an inability for me to carry out my responsibilities as Speaker. Under the House rules, during this temporary inability, Speaker pro tempore Larry Cretul will exercise all the duties, powers and prerogatives of Speaker.

I know Larry will manage the House with distinction and it will be an honor for me to serve under him at this time, until any legal proceedings I face are resolved. The allegations and reports associated with these proceedings have caused my family grave pain and this has prompted my decision. I expect positive outcomes and am confident that when the facts are known, my honesty and integrity will be confirmed."

Journalists need to ask Republicans, that gave Sansom a standing ovation, if they will rise again for Sansom? Charlie Crist defended Sansom? Will Crist continue to defend his party's Speaker?

Republicans talk about values. Those values are now being tested, as their former Speaker faces a grand jury investigation. Florida Republicans defended Sansom. Turning their backs now would show hypocrisy.

Samsom told supporters he will use his faith in family and God to guide him.