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Governor Charlie Crist says he was looking for diversity and people who would represent consumers on the state’s utility commission when he tapped Julie Brown, a former Tampa assistant city attorney, and Eduardo Balbis, the West Palm Beach assistant city manager. Crist names the two after a nominating panel refused to renominate two consumer friendly commissioners appointed previously by Crist.

“We were looking for people that weren’t involved in the process and in the system, to get people who have a fresh approach, who will fight, hopefully, for consumers,” Crist said. “Especially in this economy. I think with these two appointments, an hispanic and a woman, I think that we’ve got good diversity and I think that they will fight for the people. That’s what I hope

The two are subject to Senate confirmation and their tenure may depend on who wins the Governor’s race. Senators could decide to not confirm the two is Republican Rick Scott is the victor, allowing him to name his own commissioners.