Cretul not so temporary anymore

Rep. Larry Cretul is the new House Republican leader. So much for Rep. Ray Sansom’s “temporary recusal”idea. The Buzz has the details:

The House Republican caucus just voted to install Rep. Larry Cretul as the new leader, effectively stripping Ray Sansom from his job as Speaker. Cretul is expected to become the permanent Speaker on March 3, when the full 120-member House begins the 60-day regular session.

The folks at the St. Petersburg Times were even kind enough to get us some audio:
Audio of House Republican Conference Meeting

The Buzz describes the somber meeting:

The chamber was dead silent during the process, only a singular voice filling the chamber that Sansom hoped to lead for two years. At 9:11 p.m., Sansom’s resignation as caucus leader was accepted. Then Cretul was nominated as his replacement. The names of each of the 74 members was called out for their vote. When it came time for Sansom, he responded like the rest: “Cretul.” It was all over at 9:18 p.m.

Rep. Cretul held his first press conference since becoming Speaker earlier today, sounding humble:

I did not campaign for this position. I have no promises to fulfill. I have no ambition other than spending time with my grandsons. And they are the only ones I hope to impress.

Let’s hope that’s the truth. If you’re interested, the Palm Beach Post has video of the press conference.

Links

• The Buzz: “Cretul takes the House reins”