U.S. Senator Bill Nelson was in Tallahassee Wednesday, on a mission to right some wrongs and vaguely denying a run for governor next year.
Nelson was in town pursuing justice in two matters he’s been tracking for years: a federal mortgage aid program he says is mismanaged in Florida, and the infamous Dozier School for Boys in Marianna, where Nelson was headed to view the exhumed graves.
He’s trying to arrange for a U.S. Department of Justice grant to help scientists determine whether crimes were committed at the now-defunct reform school.
Meeting with reporters, Florida’s only statewide-elected Democrat chose his words carefully when asked about rumors he’ll challenge Governor Rick Scott, who’s running for re-election next year.
“I’m not planning to run for governor. I have no intention of running for governor. I’ve got plenty to do serving as a senator of this state, and that’s why I’m here today, in my role as senator.” When a reported pressed saying, “Is that a non-denial denial?” Nelson responded: “Bill, I can’t say it any better than I just said it.”
The three-term senator said he doesn’t favor legalized gay marriage, but supports civil rights afforded by court-recognized unions.
“I have always stood up for the civil rights of all people and will continue to do so, including civil unions. My personal preference is that marriage is between a man and a woman.”
Nelson wouldn’t comment on another possible Democratic challenger to Scott – former Republican governor Charlie Crist, who recently switched parties.
Last week, polls found Scott vulnerable, trailing Crist and former Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink by double digits.
by Margie Menzel
