In choosing Lori Berman of Palm Beach County as their new leader, Florida Senate Democrats went with a calm, respected policy oriented lawmaker — a dramatic change of course from the man she

TALLAHASSEE — In the latest blow to Florida Democrats, the Senate Democratic leader abruptly announced he is leaving the party in favor of no-party affiliation. In a dramatic speech Thursday on the floor of the chamber, Sen. Jason Pizzo said he had sent in his voter registration change and asked the Senate Democratic caucus to choose a new leader.