Welcome to

Florida’s lost more jobs than any other state in the nation and ranks second in foreclosures. A report released today shows a drastic increase in the state’s unemployment rate. The news comes as the governor is overseas on a 10 day trade mission. As Whitney Ray tells us, some say Crist is spending too much time out of the state.

Hear it Hear: Florida Hurting, Governor Gone

As Governor Charlie Crist mingles with ambassadors, meets with royalty, and sits down with European reporters. Back in Florida, people are struggling to make ends meet. In May, Eric Monroe joined half a million other Floridians on the state’s unemployed list. Eric’s been meeting with career councilors to try to find work.

“Everyday I come down here and I try to find sources, network with people to try and find a job,” said Monroe.

Florida’s unemployment rate grew by 1.5 percent, according to the latest jobless report. The news comes as Governor Crist tours France as part of his 10 day trade mission. Florida Democrats say Crist should spend more time in the state.

“Florida’s leading the nation in job loss, we have record foreclosures and where is Charlie Crist? He’s sipping lattes on a state financed vacation in Europe,” said Jeff Jotkoff, a spokesman for the Florida Democrats.

While some cite the growing unemployment rate as a reason why the Governor should have stayed in Florida, others are using it to defend his trip. Lt. Governor Eric Kottkamp said Crist is trying to bring jobs to Florida.

“The Governor couldn’t do a better thing than what he’s doing right now, which is being very aggressive about expanding our economy,” said Kottkamp.

The trip is costing taxpayers a quarter of a million dollars. Governor Charlie Crist will travel to Russia this weekend in an effort to expand trade and attract Russian tourism.