Exclusive: Gov. Crist talks to News 13

Gov. Charlie Crist stopped by the News 13 studios Friday to sit down with The Agenda host, Scott Harris.

The conversation focused on the race for the Senate.

When asked how Crist would have voted on the healthcare bill if in the Senate at the time, Crist responded by saying, "I would have voted for it. But I think it can be done better, I really do."

Hours later, press releases from Crist's challengers were sent out, touting Crist flip-flopping on the healthcare issue.

Marco Rubio's campaign sent a press release saying, "In less than 30 days, Crist has gone from voting against the bill to voting for it to now being against it again."

Kendrick Meek's campaign released a similar e-mail, saying, "Obviously, the governor is having a crisis of memory."

A spokesman for Crist, Danny Kanner, quickly sent along a statement from Crist clarifying his comments.

"Apparently, based on an interview this afternoon, there may be some confusion regarding my position on health care," Crist said. "If I misspoke, I want to be abundantly clear: the health care bill was too big, too expensive, and expanded the role of government far too much. Had I been in the United States Senate at the time, I would have voted against the bill because of unacceptable provisions like the cuts to the Medicare Advantage program.

"But being an independent, I have the freedom to be an honest broker for the people of Florida without regard for political party, and the reality is this: despite its serious flaws, the health care bill does have some positive aspects."

Rubio and Meek will also appear on Sunday's program.

The Agenda airs Sunday at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. on News 13 -- All Local, All the Time, only on Bright House Networks.