Charlie Crist fundraising against Allen West

Former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) is supporting Rep. Allen West's (R-Fla.) Democratic opponent, the latest sign he's trying to ingratiate himself with the state's Democrats ahead of a possible run for governor in 2014.

"In this age of extremist politics, being willing to work with the other side is too often labeled a sign of weakness. It's just wrong," he says in a Thursday afternoon fundraising email to supporters of Democrat Patrick Murphy, who's running against West in the Palm Beach-based swing district. "I'm supporting Patrick Murphy because he is exactly the kind of person we need in Washington: He is smart, likable, and an attentive listener who cares more about the substance of your positions rather than which side of the aisle you're on."

Crist left the GOP when it became clear he was going to lose a Senate primary to now-Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). Since then he's been moving closer and closer to the Democratic side of the aisle. He gave a speech heartily endorsing President Obama at the Democratic National Convention, and has endorsed Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) in his reelection bid against Rep. Connie Mack (R-Fla.). Many in Florida expect him to seek the Democratic nomination for governor next election.

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