More trouble is brewing for embattled Congressman Trey Radel, whose recent cocaine bust has left many within the Republican party hoping that he would step down, as a new Super PAC has formed to promote Republican Paige Kreegel, as a possible replacement for Radel.
Since completing his drug rehabilitation stint, Radel has stated that he would not step down, and would push forward during his first term as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. But the problem Radel faces is coming from within his own party, as it seems that anyone with a pulse in the GOP has asked him to step down.Because the his seat is considered to be “safe” for Republicans, and because the call has come out for him to move on, a slew of names are being thrown around as possible Republican primary challengers to Radel. State Senator Lizbeth Benequisto is considered to be at the top of the list of possible candidates, as are several of Radel’s 2012 GOP primary opponents, including Paige Kreegel.
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Completing this poll grants you access to Shark Tank updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to this site's Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.Anthony Farhat, President of PGI Homes, has already raised more than $1 million for the “Values are Vital” Super PAC, according to campaign finance reports.
Farhat said his intention isn’t necessarily to defeat Radel — “He’s created his own demise.” — but to promote Kreegel. A number of other GOP figures have show interest in the race, certain to the won by a Republican.“I’m not trying to scare or intimate anybody,” Farhat said in an interview Wednesday. “I’m just trying to do what I can as a businessowner in this district … I’m trying to say ‘Hey, I don’t want to see our district continue to make mistakes.’ ”
Farhat said he has contributed money to the Super PAC but has also gotten donations and commitments from others, including longtime friends of Kreegel.
He declined to name potential candidates he thinks are inferior to Kreegel, a medical doctor and former state legislator. Kreegel, who lost to Radel in a crowded 2012 primary, hasn’t officially said he would run but has expressed interest.
He said he does not anticipate Radel being an issue but would not hold back if somehow the 37-year-old former TV reporter salvages his reputation.“I don’t see the average Southwest Florida Republican super voter making the same mistake twice, saying ‘Hey, I’m going to go for a guy who’s a self professed alcoholic and drug abuser. I don’t think anybody needs to spend a million to make Trey Radel look bad. But it’s possible, you never know.”-TB Times
There is chatter within GOP circles that Radel that donors and politicos are taking a wait and see approach with Radel’s 2014 prospects. Polling will all but decided what Radel will do in 2014.
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