It’s a political frenzy in Florida! Both Democrat and Republicans say they have the edge going into Tuesday and will capture the Sunshine State’s 27 electoral votes. There is little doubt the battle will go down to the wire.

One thing, at least, seems certain. Unless there is a landside victory for one of the Presidential candidates nationally, Florida — once again, as in 2000 — could be the site of major post-election controversy.

There have been dozens of reports of intimidation, supposedly missing ballots, and
attempts to mislead those exercising their right to vote for the first time. And, of course,
there are complaints that a shortage of machines and a long ballot in three languages –
English, Spanish, Creole — has plagued those waiting in early voting lines and struggling to reach a designated polling spot — some enduring as long as a five hour wait.

Despite the criticism, poll problems, the mean-spirited robocalls and literature flooding Florida homes, early signs do show a dramatic surge for the Democrats. The Miami Herald reported Saturday — with only hours left for early voting (enhanced with extended time by an executive order of Gov. Charlie Crist) — that Democrats have increased their share of early and absentee ballots. The same report noted that Republicans are “maintaining an edge with Hispanic voters.” Approximately 3.4 million of Florida’s voters cast early or absentee ballots and, according to reports, 46 percent of them are registered Democrats, compared to 38 percent Republicans. Both parties suggest they have the upper hand with the remaining independent or unaffiliated voters. These figures are a direct opposite of voting trends four years ago.

Despite these figures titling to the Democrats, party officials are concerned about the final push being made by the GOP. At least seven separate brochures attacking Sen. Barack Obama — along with robocalls giving “false information” on Democratic positions — have flooded the mails.

“I have never seen such hateful literature in a campaign,” one elderly voter said.

From Huffington Post