NorthWest Florida Republican

Representative Ray Sansom resigned as House Speaker yesterday after a big push to get him to resign.

Rep. Ray Sansom gave up his position as Republican leader, which entitles him to serve as speaker. His resignation was announced as the House GOP met to oust him. He’ll keep the title of speaker, though, until a formal vote can be taken on his replacement when lawmakers meet in regular session next month.

While I am certain that Representative Ray Sansom had the best of intentions, the perception given by his acceptance of a job with the Northwest State College where he had helped provide more than $35 million in state money. Many saw this as being not much different than that of Governor Rod Blagojevich.

Ray Sansom made a mistake in taking that job. He never should have put the Republican part in that position. A position that gives the perception of quid pro quo. That is not something that the Republican Party can afford. Expect to see this as a topic in the next election.