“He (Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater), referenced 2009 stories by the Times/Herald about text messages she and other PSC staff and members gave to power company executives, potentially allowing the utility to communicate directly with them outside of public view and without leaving a paper trail.”
BY MARY ELLEN KLAS, TIMES/HERALD TALLAHASSEE BUREAU
TALLAHASSEE — As the final day of session was winding down Friday, a routine confirmation of Public Service Commissioner Lisa Edgar took a surprise turn as senators spent a half-hour in vigorous debate before confirming her 26-13.
Edgar, who was seeking a third term on the board that regulates utilities, was criticized by several senators for being too pro-utility, while supporters said she was well qualified and deserved another four years in the $130,000 job.
Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, led the opposition. As chairman of the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee, he had previously voted to confirm her but decided he wanted to raise concerns about her voting record.
“She does not do an adequate job of representing the ratepayers and consumers of the state of Florida,” he said. He said she could have been more aggressive in holding utilities accountable before charging customers for the preconstruction costs for nuclear power plants.
And he noted her personal bankruptcy, an issue that he said did not color his opinion of her confirmation.
To read more:
Indian River Guardian 
This is not good news for Florida utility ratepayers. We urgently need regulators who support the needs of consumers.
It is hopeful, however, that a Republican who is responsible for ethics raised concerns. Maybe in the future some Republican will actually meet their responsibilities in an ethical manner and with consideration of the public.