MADDOX, SMITH GET HIGH MARKS, WHILE DAVIS RUNS INTO TECHNICAL TROUBLE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

The three major Democratic candidates for governor were in South Florida over the weekend for the Florida Democratic Party's Jefferson/Jackson Gala and Youth Conference held in Hollywood, one of the largest fundraising events it holds each year.

Congressman Jim Davis (D - Tampa) spoke first during the dinner. According to this Associated Press story in this morning's Lakeland Ledger, Davis ran into some problems during his speech, which concentrated mostly on the need to improve Florida's education system and noting his record in Washington. At first it seemed as though not many among the attendees were listening to him, continuing to chat during his remarks. Then near the end music drowned him out a couple of times, and his microphone was silenced for a few moments at one point.

No such technical glitches for former state party chairman Scott Maddox or State Senator Rod Smith (D - Alachua). Maddox brought his ability to bring the crowd to it's feet as he slammed the GOP leadership for it's attempts to intervene in the Terri Schiavo case as well as supporting big business instead of Floridians. Smith touted his record as one of only 14 Democrats in the 40 member state senate, and his efforts to block Republican attempts in the Schiavo case, as well as blocking efforts to send the class size amendment back to voters and limit lawsuit awards. He also noted his background as a prosecutor in Gainesville before being elected to the state senate.

Overall, the Miami Herald reported that with the primary still well over a year off, the trio agreed more than disagreed on many issues. All three said they support the death penalty as well as seeking more money for Florida schools.

The three candidates also spoke to a gathering of Florida Young Democrats as part of the weekend event, during which Davis noted that he supports an effort led by former Education Commissioner Betty Castor to form an independent commission which would redraw congressional and legislative district boundries.

It was clear that Maddox was attempting to claim the more liberal wing of the party faithful, while Smith was touting himself as the candidate who could win the more conservative areas in North Florida which have leaned heavily Republican in recent elections.