No bully pulpit for this mayor

Plant City Mayor Daniel Raulerson's term runs out in 10 months. But his daughter, Jaclyn Raulerson, just began her reign as Miss Florida after winning the statewide beauty and talent competition as Miss Largo.

If Mayor Raulerson was thinking now is the time to muscle through some projects, however, his political power may be limited.

The new Miss Florida's platform includes anti-bullying.

According to a Hillsborough County press release, Miss Raulerson, a ninth-generation Floridian, plans to partner with the county's “Bully Busters” program, a year-old initiative of Hillsborough County Commissioner Rose Ferlita.

The program is a joint effort with the county, its Criminal Justice office, Children's Services, the Sheriff's office, and Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay to battle bullying in schools and neighborhoods. The program includes public awareness, education and intervention, and community support.

Expect future political opponents to remind Mayor Raulerson of his famous daughter's stand.