Greer trial promises headaches for Florida GOP

Former chairman's trial promises to reveal internal strife, embarrassing episodes for Fla. GOP

Published On: Feb 12 2013 08:13:24 AM EST
ORLANDO, Fla. -

The former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida is set to go on trial on fraud and theft charges.

The trial starting Monday will likely include testimony about questionable behavior and intraparty strife that will make both GOP leaders and rank-and-file members cringe.

Jurors will have to decide if Jim Greer committed a crime when he channeled more than $200,000 of party money to his company, or whether the charges against him are revenge for the waning popularity of his political patron, former Gov. Charlie Crist.

The trial could have political ramifications for Crist and some prominent Republicans, including former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux and current U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio.

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