MIAMI -- The battle over a Pompano Beach mosque and the man who is leading the fight against it ended up being a factor in the governor's race Friday.

One of the most outspoken opponents of the new mosque is the Rev. O'Neal Dozier, who said the mosque would be a "breeding ground for terrorists."

Friday, political reporter Michael Putney said that Dozier paid a price for taking that stand.

In the past, Dozier has been close to Charlie Crist, who named him to his "Strengthening Florida's Families" council, giving him access and influence. Dozier has also been outspoken about his support of Crist.

After Dozier distributed controversial comic book-style pamphlets this week that depict Muslims as violent terrorists, the Council on Islamic Relations asked Crist to remove him from his council.

In July, Gov. Jeb Bush asked Dozier to resign from a judicial nominating commission after he asked inappropriate questions.

When he was pressed Friday about his association with Dozier, Crist cut him loose.

Putney said that Crist will probably dismiss the incident as minor, and his Democratic opponent Jim Davis will probably say it reflects badly on his opponent's judgment and choice of friends.