Crist's 'Broad Based' Nonsense

Gov. Charlie Crist is running for the U.S. Senate and needs to prove himself a fiscal conservative. Crist signed the Americans for Tax Reform pledge. The group is run by the scandal-plagued Grover Norquist. Conservatives attacked Norquist for his association with the Islamist Fifth Column. Norquist came under F.B.I scrutiny for his ties with convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Republican politicians don't have the good sense to avoid Norquist.

Crist signed Norquist anti-tax pledge. The problem is Crist raised taxes on cigareetes. Fees are technically not new taxes. Florida citizens will still feel the impact.

"It's broad based, if it's a majority," Crist said. "Clearly."


Here's what's clear: The state has about 15.6 million driver licenses and about 18.8 million motor vehicles. All of them will have to pay more.

Is that "broad based" enough?

Norquist's tax pledge is silly. Politicians should not paint themselves in a corner about promising never to raise taxes. Tax policy should be based on careful study and the current economic climate. It was pointless for Crist to sign the pledge. The Governor is terrified Norquist will whip up the base against him. Hardly a profile in courage.