Alex Sink and Pat O'Neal (Molly Jubitz photo)
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On Sunday, Cedar Key Mayor Pat O`Neal endorsed Alex Sink, Democratic candidate, for Governor of Florida. O`Neal, describing himself as a "dyed in the wool Republican," said he had decided to endorse Ms. Sink after seeing the positive response she and the Department of Financial Services made after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He said he approves of her business plan for Florida`s future and stated, "she has the answers we need." Cedar Key News had an exclusive interview with Alex Sink, Democrat candidate for Governor of Florida, when she came to Cedar Key for the Clamerica Fourth of July celebration. Ms. Sink currently is Chief Financial Officer of Florida, head of the Florida Department of Financial Services.
On June 24, her department held a meeting with local business people to explain the claims process for damages from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and to let residents know what her department was prepared to do to assist with issues relating to this situation. CKN: Floridians face many issues: what are the three most important issues in your opinion? Alex Sink: The economy and jobs, public education and the environment. CKN: You have been in the Governor`s cabinet for the past four years. What has that been like? Alex Sink: Being in the cabinet has been a fascinating experience. We deal with so many issues, in a collaborative way. There have been honest debates. State pension funds are one topic. There are twelve agencies from which we receive reports. A Cedar Key topic of interest is administration of submerged lands - where the clam leases are. CKN: Isn`t the structure of the Florida Governor`s cabinet unique among states? Alex Sink: I`m not sure that it is unique, but it does have oversight on twelve agencies. CKN: Greening disease is a great threat to Florida citrus. What new can be done that isn`t already underway to stop this disease?
Alex Sink: We need more research. We will continue to invest in the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. I am a strong supporter of agriculture. I grew up on a farm. Agricultural businesses have been carrying the state financially. Beyond agriculture, Plan B (for economic recovery ) must be emphasis on renewable energy. CKN: Do you have any special comments? Alex Sink: Yes, I am pleased to announce that the Mayor of Cedar Key, Pat O`Neal, has endorsed my candidacy for governor, and has withdrawn his endorsement of the Republican candidate. 
Mayor of Archer, Roberta Lopez, organized a luncheon for supporters of Alex Sink (Kyra Jennings photo)
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Levy County Commission Chair Nancy Bell, Alex Sink and Pat O'Neal (Kyra Jennings photo)
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