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The stakes are high and so are the emotions surrounding the issues facing state lawmakers in the 2011 legislative session. The day began in Tallahassee this morning with competing rallies. As Whitney Ray tells us, it didn’t take long until members from each group were locked in debate.

Charles Crites traveled from Tampa with a bus of Tea Party activists to usher in what they believe will be a new era of state governance in Tallahassee.

Charles owns a tow-truck business, and says Governor Rick Scott’s plan to cut taxes and lift regulations will help his business grow.

“By reducing these regulations I believe it’s going to be a big help especially to mom and pop businesses,” said Charles.

The crowd carried signs supporting the Governor’s agenda, and an hour into their rally on the steps of the Historic Capitol, Scott made a surprise visit.

“Hold us accountable. If we are not going down the path that we said, call us. Show up right here and complain,” said Scott.

Across the street, opponents of Scott’s plan, waved signs in support of state workers and education funding.

“We are registered Republicans and we want the state to understand that not everyone sees things in the same light as our current legislature and governor,” said Robert Wright from Sarasota.

And while the stakes are high so are the emotions. It wasn’t long before people on both sides of the argument began to debate. Karen Melin, a state worker from Tallahassee, walked through the Tea Party rally protesting government layoffs.

“It’s my job. I’ve been a state employee since 2002,” said Karen.

A Scott Supporter quickly made an attempt to convert Karen.

“We get upset whenever we feel like we are kicking in money for you,” the supporter said.

And the debate will continue on the House and Senate floors, where lawmakers will be asked to make tough choices over the next 59 days.

And there are rallies outside of Tallahassee as well. The Awake the State protests, the group against Scott’s budget plans, scheduled protests all day in more than 20 different locations. The protest began at 10est and last through 7PM.