Florida Republican Party Chairman Jim Greer announced today he is stepping down from his post amid complaints about his service -- including the misappropriation of money -- though he maintained he was not asked to resign by the governor or any other GOP leader. Greer admitted the party's internal battle between the conservative and moderate wings weighed on him, and he finally decided over the last couple days he could no longer effectively lead.

"It was obvious to me that some of these people were not going to stop" their attacks on him, Greer said, without ever mentioning the names of those "who have expressed concerns" with his chairmanship. Greer's comments came during a conference call with reporters.

Greer's resignation comes days before the party's annual meeting, when he said plans were in place to "embarrass" him.

"Over last six months there have been a very vocal group in our party that has been very active in seeking to oust me as chairman," he said. "They have distorted facts -- the misspending of money -- and talked about my support of Governor Crist for the U.S. Senate race. ... These distractions and attacks within the party is not what we should be doing."

The conservative-moderate battle is highlighted in the Senate primary, between the more moderate Gov. Charlie Crist and conservative Marco Rubio. Conservatives, unhappy with Crist's moderate stances and support for legislation like the economic stimulus package, have jumped behind Rubio's candidacy and sparked a divide that has proved to exist in other states as well.

Greer said "some forgot that our number one focus and objective is to win elections," highlighting his support for a 'big tent' party rather than holding a conservative purity test for candidates. He also stated his pride in opening up the party to minorities and all candidates on the political spectrum.

"I am not a purist," he said. "I leave here as chairman very proud."

Following Greer's announcement, Crist announced his support for a successor -- State Sen. John Thrasher.

"Sen. Thrasher is a dedicated public servant, and I look forward to working with him to ensure Republican victories this election cycle," Crist said in a statement released by his campaign. "He will do a great job, and I have tremendous respect for him."