After a narrow loss in Florida's 2014 gubernatorial contest, former Gov. Charlie Crist has been largely absent from the public stage, though there are indications that could be about to change.
In an exclusive interview, the Republican-turned independent-turned Democrat says he's exploring running for Congress. Crist's home district, covering southern Pinellas County, is all but certain to be re-drawn to become Democratic-leaning as the result of a recent Florida Supreme Court ruling.
Speaking alongside his wife, Carole, at her new Goddessey Boutique in downtown St. Petersburg, the former governor said the couple's experience with starting the business has led him to believe he'd be able to help spur further economic development as a member of Congress.
"People in St. Petersburg deserve a fighter in Washington, for education, for the environment, for the economy, as exhibited by the opening of another business in St. Pete," Crist said. "All of these things are important."
If Crist does announce a Congressional campaign - something sources say it's likely to happen in mid-October - the former first lady's boutique could serve as a powerful tool in building support. Goddessey's 'Girls Night Out' event on Thursday attracted a cross-section of St. Petersburg's fashion and political scenes.
"Just to have the ability and the time to focus on things I care about, you know, friends and family and business. I'm a female entrepreneur. I love business, I love the excitement of it, I love being creative and creating something from nothing, and this just really is so gratifying," Carole Crist said.