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You know those before-and-after photos of presidents showing how much they aged during their years running the country? Here's one example: iThat's a big difference, but it's nothing compared to what spending time in the Florida Legislature does to a politician. Inside, see the photographic evidence of a stunning transformation of one...

By Bob Norman

April 22, 2011

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You know those before-and-after photos of presidents showing how much they aged during their years running the country?

Here's one example:

i

That's a big difference, but it's nothing compared to what spending time in the Florida Legislature does to a politician. Inside, see the photographic evidence of a stunning transformation of one formerly prominent local state senator.

Here's Steve Geller when he entered the Legislature at the end of the 1980s:

Perfectly regular-looking fellow, right? Well, look at what 20 years of legislative life did to him:

On a positive note, Geller to his credit has lost a fair amount of that girth -- free meal, anyone? -- since leaving office. But just think of it: If term limits hadn't forced him to leave the Senate, he would still be growing.

Let this be a cautionary tale for all who dare to enter Florida politics.

Here's a little push into the weekend:

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Journalist Bob Norman has been raking the muck of South Florida for the past 25 years. His work has led to criminal cases against corrupt politicians, the ouster of bad judges from the bench, and has garnered dozens of state, regional, and national awards.

Contact: Bob Norman