While there were some folks who probably didn't think it would actually happen, former Congressman Bill McCollum did, indeed, end up endorsing Republican U.S. Senate nominee Mel Martinez. But while Martinez reportedly apologize for his campaign's low-blow tactics toward McCollum toward the end of the primary race, the former Congressman from Melbourne made it clear that while all may be forgiven publicly...all will not be forgotten.

And who can blame him?

Meanwhile Democratic nominee Betty Castor makes note that she doesn't have to modify her positions for the general election, a slap at Martinez' campaign. Some of Mel's more right-wing stances were removed from his Web site within days of the primary, which many believe is a beginning of an effort to remake the candidate's appeal to a necessary wider base for November 2.

And what's this about Ralph Nader being back on the ballot??? Last week Leon County Circuit Judge Kevin Davey ordered Secretary of State Glenda Hood to remove Nader's name from the ballot, stating that the Reform Party is not longer a viable third party according to Florida Statutes. But Hood is appealing the decision, which puts the former consumer advocate back on the ballot...for now.

The Florida Democratic Party is challenging Nader's being on the ballot on a technicality. If they really wanted to stir up a hornet's nest, Party Chairman Scott Maddox should challenge the fact that Florida's Bush/Cheney campaign staff did not bother turning in the required paperwork to the state elections office until September 2, the day after it was required to be there. A third party such as the Green or Constitution Party would never have gotten the same consideration.

Actually, Ralph Nader is a shadow of his former self, is running for ego, and will be lucky if he even gets half the votes he received four years ago.