After the jump, a collection of some of the other reaction coming in to Gov. Charlie Crist's decision to run as an independent in the Florida Senate race, including Marco Rubio, Jeb Bush, and Mitt Romney.

Marco Rubio:

“Since I launched this campaign a year ago, I have run on the principles I hold dear, the issues concerning Floridians, and the ideas I believe will help get our nation back on track. This was the case when I was over 40 points down in the polls, it's true today, it will be true through November, and it will be true when I get to Washington. I am a Republican because it is the natural home for all Americans who believe in limited government, individual freedom, a strong defense and traditional values. I entered this race because I believe no other candidate can be trusted to go to Washington and stand up for these values.

“Governor Crist still doesn't get it; this race is not about conservative vs. moderate, Republican vs. Democrat or, now, Republican vs. Democrat vs. Non-Party Affiliated. This election's outcome was never going to hinge on whether he chose to run as a Republican or not. This race is a referendum between the limited government, free market American identity I will fight to preserve versus the costly and intrusive big government agenda that both Governor Crist and Congressman Meek support. This race is not about doing whatever it takes to win in November; it's about earning the privilege and responsibility to work boldly in the U.S. Senate to ensure future generations inherit a stronger and more prosperous America. What party or non-party you affiliate with is far less consequential than the principles and policies that will define America for decades to come.

“Whereas yesterday my primary opponent was one supporter of wasteful stimulus spending, tax increases, cap-and-trade energy taxes, liberal judges and abortion, I now look forward to debating issues and ideas with Governor Crist and Congressman Meek, who share the same unhealthy appetite for more government, more spending and higher taxes.

“As the campaign enters this new phase, I will continue working hard to earn the trust of all Floridians who believe in limited government and recognize that Washington's spending and intrusion in our lives is out of control. I will continue running on the principles, issues and ideas that have brought us to this point and that I believe to my core are needed in Washington more than ever.”

Jeb Bush:

I am not surprised. This decision is not about policy or principles. It is about what he believes is in his political self-interest.

Florida GOP chair John Thrasher:

“For years Charlie Crist has claimed to be ‘for the people,' but today's announcement was not about ‘the people' or about policy, it was about Charlie Crist and his political aspirations.

“Over the years, tens of thousands of dedicated Republicans have donated their time, talents, and hard-earned money to support Governor Crist. They made hundreds of thousands of calls and spent their nights and weekends walking door-to-door, waving signs, volunteering at campaign offices and attending campaign events. With today's move the Governor is not only turning his back on those loyal Republicans who helped him get to where he is today, but he has deserted his responsibilities as the elected leader of the Republican Party of Florida.

“Governor Crist is taking the easy way out, instead of standing and fighting like Republican elected officials and grassroots volunteers across the state, who refuse to cave to political pressure and who would never compromise their status as proud Republicans just to win an election. 

“Floridians are looking for a leader in the U.S. Senate race; someone who will keep their commitments and stand by their convictions. Charlie Crist has done neither.”

Mitt Romney:

“Today's decision by Governor Crist is deeply disappointing and reaffirms for me why it is critical we elect Marco Rubio to the U.S. Senate. What we need right now are leaders in Washington that we can trust to stand up for limited government, decreased spending, lower taxes and individual liberties.  Governor Crist's decision means we must all work harder to elect Marco Rubio to the U.S. Senate.”

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