Having already won the state AFL-CIO's endorsement for commissioner of agriculture, Scott Maddox could breathe a sigh of relief. So, with the heat off, the former Tallahassee mayor offered the union convention a high-octane speech Saturday, tearing full force into Florida Republicans.

Maddox had won the backing of the state AFL-CIO in March for the primary and general elections.

“There’s only one statewide candidate who’s been endorsed,” said Florida AFL-CIO President Mike Williams. “That’s how good a friend Scott Maddox is.”

On Monday, as Floridians wondered what impact the massive oil spill in the Gulf would have on Florida, former Tallahassee Mayor Scott Maddox called on all gubernatorial and cabinet office candidates in Florida to sign a pledge opposing any offshore oil drilling in state waters.

Maddox, the leading Democratic candidate running for commissioner of agriculture and consumer services, held a media event to unveil his pledge and reiterate his opposition to any offshore drilling.

“I urge each candidate to sign this pledge,” said Maddox.