Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds November 1

 

This past week, Congress remained in session as Democrats continued their streak of failing to address the multiple crises facing the American people.

 

Joe Biden’s desperation for approval is now causing his administration to look to illegal immigrants for support. As his open border policies remain a massive failure, the President and his administration are considering a plan to provide illegal immigrants up to $450,000 per person due to the legal and appropriate handling of their unlawful entry into our nation enforced under President Trump. This proposal is estimated to cost more than $1 billion of taxpayer dollars and will undoubtedly exacerbate the crisis on our southern border.

 

As we quickly approach this holiday season, Americans are expected to experience the most expensive Thanksgiving holiday on record. In the ten months that Joe Biden has been in office, his failed policies have caused record inflation, a crippling supply chain shortage, and a national labor shortage – the burden of these crises falling upon the American people and their wallets. Democrats on Capitol Hill are struggling to pass a multi-trillion-dollar socialist spending package that will send our nation further into debt and raise taxes on America’s middle class are significantly out of touch with reality and Americans’ economic struggles. Rather than trying to bring much-needed relief to the American people and bring forth sensible solutions to any of the crises facing our nation, Democrats are solely focused on passing the most invasive form of government overreach in history. While Congressional Democrats stand in denial and disarray, my colleagues & I on this side of the aisle are committing to solving crucial issues like the border crisis, massive inflation, labor shortage, and the supply chain crisis.

 

Continue reading for a more detailed update on sponsored legislation, must-see interviews, and more!

 

 

 
Legislative Updates
 
This past week, I introduced a resolution honoring the life and the legacy of General Colin L. Powell. A trailblazer, a legendary statesman, and a great American – I was

 

General Colin L. Powell was a trailblazer, a legendary statesman, and a great American. This past week, I was honored to introduce a resolution to properly honor the life and legacy of Gen. Powell and his lasting impact on American politics and military affairs.

 

Read the resolution in its entirety here:

 

H. Res. 748 – Honoring the Life and Legacy of General Colin L. Powell

 

 

Last week, I was proud to join my colleague Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) in cosponsoring the BE GONE Act.

 

This bill seeks to protect every community in America from the dangers of illegal immigrants convicted of sexual assault.

 

Biden has failed to protect America at home and abroad.

 

Read more here: Rep. Stefanik Introduces House Bill to Block, Deport Immigrants with Sex Crime Convictions

 

This past week, I joined a press conference with members of the Florida delegation to highlight the important need to fight these authoritarian mandates.

 

To the hundreds of thousands who fear losing their livelihoods for not complying with Biden’s unconstitutional & tyrannical mandates:

 

In Florida, we respect medical freedom and reject mandates that infringe upon the rights of the American people. Watch the press conference below:

 

Rep. Byron Donalds Speaks Out on Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates

 

 

Last week, House Oversight and Reform Committee held a hearing on ‘Fueling the Climate Crisis: Exposing Big Oil’s Disinformation Campaign to Prevent Climate Action.’ This committee, led by Chairwoman Maloney continues to intimidate energy companies, which provide power to the American people.

 

Let’s be clear, the world will always demand energy.

 

If you’re not getting energy from us, where we actually produce energy more clearly and more safely, countries will get it from Russia or China – and they don’t care what the climate activists have to say on Twitter. Watch the segment of the hearing below:

 

 

 

 

Last Thursday, I released a statement condemning the House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairwoman Maloney’s planned subpoenaing of oil companies. Tying the hands of our energy industry is a threat to our national security, the health of our climate, and our stature on the world stage, and I will not stand idly by as Democrats seek to kill jobs and enrich our rivals.

 

Read my full statement below:

 

 

 

 

 
In the Media
 
Last week, I had the privilege to write an op-ed honoring the late Gen. Colin Powell and his inspiring vision of a great American Dream. As a Black man, several generations to his junior, my success in business and politics was only possible through the tenacious and intrepid spirit of men like Gen. Powell. May he rest In eternal peace.

 

Read my op-ed below:

 

Rep. Byron Donalds: Colin Powell and His Inspiring Vision of a Great America

 

This past week, I had the opportunity to join ‘Unfiltered with Dan Bongino’ on Fox News to discuss the Democrat’s attempt to divide America based on vaccination status, big media’s bias towards America’s Governor, Gov. Ron DeSantis, and the Biden Border Crisis.

 

Watch the interview below:

 

 

Last week, I had spoke on Fox Business about the Democrats radical socialist spending policies. There is just not enough money amongst the rich to subsidize their crazy plans. Simply put, Washington cannot get their hands on enough of YOUR money to fund their massive government takeover.

 

Watch a segment of the interview below:

 

 

 

This past week, I had the pleasure of joining ‘Tucker Carlson Tonight’ on Fox News to discuss COVID-19 and the unconstitutional vaccine mandates by the Biden administration. A message for Biden, when you cough into your hand, make sure you wash it before you start shaking hands with the people around you. That was nasty before COVID; now it’s just stupid.

 

Get vaxxed if you want, and leave those who don’t want to the hell alone. Watch the full interview below below:

 

 

Last Wednesday, I joined Lawrence Jones on Fox News ‘Primetime’ to discuss one of the most consequential failures of the Biden-Harris admin, the blatant mishandling of our southern border.

 

Biden and Harris are aiding and abetting human and drug smugglers and this crisis. Be sure to watch the interview below:

 

 

 

 

 

This past week, I had spoke to EWTN’s ‘News Nightly’ on President Biden’s final attempt to sell his massive multi-trillion dollar social agenda.

 

As I pointed out, it’s not going to bring in the revenue they think it’s going to bring in… it’s going to increase debt. Watch the full interview below:

 

 

 

 

Serving the hardworking men and women of Florida’s 19th Congressional District is my distinct honor and privilege. It’s time Washington works for our community’s values, and every day I will always strive to ensure your government is working for you.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review – October 30

This week, as energy prices across America surge higher, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to request unanimous consent on his Give Americans Stability at Pumps as Rising Inflation Causes Emergencies (GAS PRICE) Act. This common sense legislation would direct the Energy Information Administration (EIA) to report to Congress any policy or rule set by the Biden administration which raises energy costs for American families. Senate Democrats blocked its passage.

Growing up Senator Scott watched his mom struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table, and now we are seeing skyrocketing prices hurt families today who are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to keep up. While the Biden administration refuses to take responsibility for its policies that are causing rising energy prices, or take action to fix this urgent problem, Senator Scott continues to propose real solutions and fight against the Democrats’ radical socialist agenda that is driving up prices and hurting American families more every day.
See more HERE or in the video below.


See more of what Senator Scott has been up to this week below.

Sen. Rick Scott: The Government is No Replacement for Parents When it Comes to Education

As the rights of parents are under attack by the Biden administration, Senator Rick Scott, joined by Leader Mitch McConnell, U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee Ranking Member Richard Burr and nearly thirty other Republican senators introduced a resolution supporting parents’ rights to be fully and actively involved in the education of their children. Recently, Joe Biden and his administration have politicized and weaponized the Justice Department, threatening to use federal law enforcement resources to intimidate and silence parents who speak out to protect their children from harmful curricula like critical race theory that’s being pushed by Biden and the far-left. Biden’s dangerous tactics are a clear violation on parents’ rights of free speech and the right to have a say in their child’s education.
This resolution is also cosponsored by Senators John Barrasso, Marsha Blackburn, John Boozman, Mike Braun, John Cornyn, Tom Cotton, Kevin Cramer, Mike Crapo, Joni Ernst, Deb Fischer, Lindsey Graham, Chuck Grassley, Josh Hawley, John Hoeven, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jim Inhofe, Ron Johnson, John Kennedy, James Lankford, Mike Lee, Cynthia Lummis, Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, James Risch, Marco Rubio, Tim Scott, Thom Tillis, Tommy Tuberville, and Roger Wicker.
Senator Rick Scott said, “The Democrats’ war on parents is disgusting. As a proud father of two, and grandfather to seven, it makes me furious to hear people say that the government knows better than a mom or dad when it comes to the education of their child. That’s why today I am proud to have Leader McConnell, Ranking Member Burr and nearly thirty other Republican senators join me in introducing a simple resolution supporting parents’ rights to be engaged and have a say in their child’s education. It’s not controversial or radical to say that we support the right of parents to be the leading voices in the education of their children. And it’s not controversial or radical to expect teachers, schools and school districts to regularly engage parents in constructive and open dialogue about school policies, curriculum, and instructional materials – and to LISTEN to their feedback. Moms and dads know what is best for their children, and it is a great thing when they get involved. We won’t let the Democrats use their radical, socialist agenda to drive parents out of education and replace them with the failed ideas of big government.” Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: GDP Bomb Shows Biden is Driving America Toward Economic Doomsday

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the Department of Commerce’s latest Bureau of Economic Analysis Report noting that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fell to a 2% annualized rate of growth in the third quarter amid President Biden’s growing supply chain and inflation crises. These awful, below estimate GDP figures, which serve as the primary indicator of the country’s economic health and growth, further prove what Senator Scott has been saying for months: Biden’s dangerous, socialist policies are pushing America backward, killing jobs and driving our nation toward an economic doomsday.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Joe Biden has been an absolute disaster for our country. By embracing radical socialist policies over what’s truly in the best interest of American families, he has brought America to a dangerous low after just nine months in office. At every turn, he has made the wrong choice. Vaccine mandates? Kills jobs. Paying people more to stay home than go back to work? Kills jobs. Reckless government spending? Fuels inflation and creates a massive supply chain disaster that’s causing shortages and raising prices for almost everything. I hear it from Florida families every week – they are sick and tired of Joe Biden’s failed policies that are making it harder and harder to put food on the table, gas in the tank and a roof over their head. Folks can’t get by in Joe Biden’s America. It’s time for the president to wake up and listen before a devastating economic doomsday comes for the United States.” Read more HERE.

Democrats Want Americans in the Dark, Block Sen. Rick Scott Transparency Proposal to Address Rising Energy Prices

As energy prices across America surge higher, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to request unanimous consent on his Give Americans Stability at Pumps as Rising Inflation Causes Emergencies (GAS PRICE) Act. This simple legislation, cosponsored by Senators Roger Marshall, Cynthia Lummis, Shelley Moore Capito, Ron Johnson, Jerry Moran and Marsha Blackburn, would direct the Energy Information Administration (EIA) to report to Congress any policy or rule set by the Biden administration which raises energy costs for American families. Senate Democrats blocked its passage.
Reports from the EIA have shown that prices on energy, like gasoline, have increased 55% in just one year, and it is predicted that this winter, home heating prices are going to rise by more than 40% for homes that use heating oil, more than 30% for homes using natural gas, and 54% for homes using propane.
Senator Rick Scott said, “Just this week, the South Florida Sun Sentinel ran a story with the headline, ‘Gas Prices hit their highest level since 2014. When will we get a break?’ As gas prices keep rising, the message from Florida couldn’t be more clear. But this is about more than just headlines. These skyrocketing prices are hurting real families who are living paycheck to paycheck, and struggling to keep up. I grew up poor. When my parents’ bills went up, it made it more difficult on my family. When gas prices went up, it meant we had less food to put on the table.

“The only person to blame for what we are seeing across this country is Joe Biden. He’s done everything in his power to destroy America’s energy independence. In his first month in office, he cut the Keystone Pipeline permit and killed thousands of American jobs. Then he suspended new oil and gas leasing and drilling permits for federal lands. Of course, Joe Biden only knows how to blame everyone but himself. Since the Biden administration has shown ZERO interest in fixing this urgent problem, I introduced a simple bill today that just made it so Congress would be informed when a new policy or rule causes energy costs for American families to go up. Of course, Democrats blocked it. Joe Biden’s lieutenants in the Senate will do anything to cover up the disastrous impacts of his failed energy agenda and today was just further proof of that fact. It’s shameful but I won’t stop fighting against the Democrats’ radical socialist agenda that is driving up prices and hurting American families more every day.” Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Sends Open Letter to G-20 Leaders: I Won’t Support a Global Minimum Corporate Tax

Ahead of the G-20 Summit in Rome, Senator Rick Scott sent an open letter to the G-20 leaders expressing his opposition to a country-by-country minimum tax rate of 15% on multinational enterprises, which represents a significant threat to American competitiveness. In his letter, Senator Scott reminds global leaders that any changes to tax code or tax treaties must obtain approval by the U.S. Senate. Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: I Urge Airlines to Fight Biden’s Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Airlines for America President and CEO Nicholas Calio and National Air Carrier Association President George Novak urging the airline industry to abandon plans to impose President Biden’s unconstitutional vaccine mandates on their workforce—a driving force for unemployment. Throughout the pandemic, airline employees have worked hard to keep themselves and passengers safe. Now, the Biden administration is attempting to bully hardworking Americans and threatening their livelihood by forcing a false choice: get the vaccine or lose your job. Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott to President Biden: Taiwan Deserves Invitation to White House Democracy Summit

Senator Rick Scott urged President Joe Biden to publicly invite Taiwan to participate in The Summit on Democracy, which is being convened by the White House and Department of State on December 9th and 10th, to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the world’s democracies. Senator Scott’s letter follows President Biden’s public statement committing to protect Taiwan in the event of an invasion by Communist China. Senator Scott continues to fight for his bill, the Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act, to end America’s failed policy of strategic ambiguity. Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Cynthia Lummis and Colleagues in Legislation Requiring Federal Employees to Return to Work

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Cynthia Lummis, John Barrasso, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Marsha Blackburn, Mike Rounds and Roger Marshall to introduce the Having Employees Return to Duty (HERD) Act of 2021. This bill would require federal employees to return to their duty station and the hours they were working prior to the COVID-19 pandemic to help citizens across the country who are currently being underserved by federal agencies due to remote work and a backlog of casework issues.
Senator Rick Scott said, “I’ve heard from families across Florida who are facing issues due to backlogs at federal agencies. Americans everywhere are expected to go to work each day and are able to do so safely – the federal government shouldn’t be any different. We must get the government back to work for the American people and I hope all of my colleagues will support this good bill.” Read more from Senator Lummis’ office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: Chair Powell Must Prove Federal Reserve is Independent & Working for American Families

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell making it clear that he will not support Chair Powell for another term as Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve unless he shows that the Federal Reserve is an independent agency working in the best interests of American families. Throughout this year, Senator Scott has repeatedly expressed his frustration with Chair Powell’s blind obedience to the failed policies and agenda of President Biden and the Democrats, and his lack of independent leadership to mitigate the harmful impacts of rising inflation. As hardworking families across America continue to suffer because of skyrocketing inflation, a supply chain crisis, a workforce disaster and a historical amount of federal debt, Chair Powell has continued to direct the Federal Reserve to manipulate markets with huge treasury bond purchases and done nothing to protect families. Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: Raging Inflation Shows Biden’s Socialism & Powell’s Inaction are Destroying America

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the Bureau and Labor Statistics Report noting the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index has risen to 4.4% over the year, the highest level seen all year. This data shows how President Biden’s inflation crisis, caused by his and Democrats’ socialist policies and reckless government spending, is shrinking budgets for families as the prices of everyday goods continue to skyrocket.

Senator Scott has been urging President Biden to stop his unconstitutional vaccine mandates which are causing families to make an impossible choice: comply to keep their job, quit, or be fired. Reports from the Federal Reserve have shown that reckless policies like this are fueling Biden’s supply chain and inflation crises. Earlier this week, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Chair Jerome Powell making it clear that if Powell does not start showing the Federal Reserve is acting as an independent agency, Senator Scott will not support another term for Powell as Chair.

Senator Rick Scott said, “What in the world is President Joe Biden thinking? Report after report shows plain and simple that Biden’s socialist policies and unconstitutional vaccine mandates are killing our economy, harming our businesses and leaving our families with less and less. And what is he doing to fix it? NOTHING. Biden signed up to lead the country but he’s done absolutely NOTHING to help American families. This is hurting mothers like mine growing up, who struggled to make ends meet, and it makes me furious. The incompetence is astonishing. But, Biden isn’t the only one to blame. As Biden destroys the economy, Chair Powell has been nothing but a puppet for his disastrous agenda. With inflation still raging and the latest GDP figures showing the economy is headed in the wrong direction, we must act now to protect American families. If Biden and Powell can’t do the job, they need to get out of the way.”

Stopping Dysfunction and Deterioration at Naples City Hall

Russell Tuff
Chairman, CCCVPAC

The dysfunction is getting worse with Napes City Council members. The city manager resigned, the new interim city manager resigned, and a couple of high ranking supervisors have left as well.

Naples government is falling apart. Action needs to take place to change the dysfunctional city council. The long marathon meetings with no meaningful outcomes are tiring. The change can only come through elections.

We’ve been here before.

Were you around in the early 1990’s? If you weren’t here, you didn’t witness the severe deterioration of 5th Ave South in Naples. It became depressing to walk what was once a vibrant downtown.

It became run down with many open storefronts. There was a group of city council people nicknamed the “Three Amigos” who were against investing in downtown and let the deterioration continue.

To meet consumer demand, new shopping locations were built to meet consumer demand. The mall expanded, we saw Waterside Shops, Village Walk, and later Mercato.

Improving Naples

It was determined at that time something had to change in City Hall. A few vision projects took place across the community to get the public engaged with names like FOCUS and other planning programs.
Eventually, Andres Duany was hired to create a new vision for downtown Naples, and we see the result of that.

Businesses always need to be changing, adapting, and investing to remain vibrant. People began to proudly walk downtown with great dining and shopping. It became one of the jewels of Naples again.

Once again we are see the area get a little tired and the need to revitalize certain areas is becoming apparent if we are to maintain the strength and jewel of Naples.

There is resistance and dragging of feet with the current city council members, who want to focus on “affordable housing’ and other ventures, while the streets need better lighting to keep residents safe and planned improvements are delayed.

What we are seeing is a good example in Naples of what is happening in the US now that Democrats have taken control – Complete dysfunction.

The Cure for Naples

Why are we here again? It is because we elected Democrats who changed their political affiliation in order to be more palatable to the Naples Republican base.

We have the ability to remove those formerly Democrat candidates. We just have to show up to vote.

We will disclose who the Republicans are in the election to help you vote to right the ship.

We have a Ratings committee set up to evaluate the current candidates and any new people putting their hat in the ring. We will keep you informed of the findings, based on voting records, experience and remaining true to Republican values.

We need to send out postcards, emails, electronic and social media advertisements to change the dysfunction in Naples City Council. If you agree, we could use your help.

Please donate $20.22 for the 2022 election cycle and keep Naples as the crown jewel it is today.  Click Here to Donate

 

Low Republican Voter Turnout of Republicans in City Elections Harmed Naples


We will run a strong Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Campaign for this election cycle. Absentee ballots go out to voters in December and we need to send mailers, emails, and electronic messages with the candidate ratings, and the GOTV emphasis to All Registered Republicans. Be part of the solution and vote.

Protecting Florida Jobs

Governor DeSantis and Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a lawsuit today against the Biden Administration’s order requiring employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated by December 8. The Governor promised to take legal action to stop federal overreach and is keeping that promise, making Florida the first state in the nation to hold the President accountable.

The lawsuit seeks an immediate end to the unlawful requirement that federal contractors ensure that all employees are injected.

“Just months ago Joe Biden was saying that it wouldn’t be appropriate or lawful for the federal government to mandate these COVID shots,” Governor DeSantis said. “But now we have somehow gone from 15 days to slow the spread to 3 jabs to keep your job. The federal government is exceeding their power and it is important for us to take a stand because in Florida we believe these are choices based on individual circumstances.”

“I have never seen such blatant disregard for the Constitution or the laws governing our country,” said Attorney General Moody. “President Biden does not have the authority to force millions of Americans to receive a shot, nor does he have the ability to punish Florida economically for not abiding by his authoritarian, unlawful, and unconstitutional executive order.”

The Governor and Attorney General were joined at the announcement by Floridians who are facing consequences as a result of vaccine mandates.

Florida job growth soars. Covid cases plummet.

At the same time as Covid cases continue to plunge in Florida, to the lowest in the nation, the state’s job growth soars to the highest in the nation — demonstrating again the wisdom of Governor DeSantis’ freedom-first agenda.

Florida’s Covid case count is down 90 percent from two months ago, and 76 percent since Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo signed new rules about a month ago that empowered parental control over their children’s health, banned quarantining healthy people and kept kids in school mask-free. Florida’s case rate is currently half of California’s, which has the strictest mask and vaccine requirements in the nation and is mandating every child over five be vaccinated to attend school.

“Without mandates or lockdowns, COVID-19 cases in Florida have decreased 90% since August,” Governor DeSantis said. “In addition to cases, hospitalizations have plummeted in our state. This has been accomplished by making monoclonal antibody treatments and vaccines widely available throughout our state while protecting Floridians from government overreach.”

Draconian, freedom-squashing government mandates do not stop Covid and Florida’s path is shown to be the best in dealing with the virus while allowing people to freely make their own health decisions.

These freedoms have fueled Florida’s economy by allowing businesses and consumers to go about creating a thriving marketplace.

Florida’s economy rapidly accelerated in September, growing at three times the rate of the nation’s growth. Florida gained 84,500 total jobs, marking 17 consecutive months of private-sector job growth. Importantly, Florida has also seen 11 consecutive months of labor force increases, adding 50,000 workers in just the past month. Florida’s labor force growth of 5.4% is dramatically higher than the national rate of 0.8%.

In total, Florida has gained more than one million jobs since April 2020, and September’s job creation was almost twice that of California.

“While the entire nation gained 194,000 jobs in September, Florida gained 84,500 jobs in the same month – we are outpacing the nation in job growth and job opportunities because businesses know that Florida will stand up for them,” Governor DeSantis said. “We will continue to work hard to keep Florida open, free and built for opportunity.” 

Governor DeSantis was joined this week by representatives of three Florida-based businesses — Tervis, PGT Innovations, and Anna Maria Oyster Bar — to highlight the recent success of Florida’s job market and support Florida-based companies.

“Governor DeSantis has created a business environment that has enabled us to hire 115 people since June that has helped minimize the broader impact that the pandemic created, and Tervis is very fortunate to be in a state with a healthy economy,” said Rogan Donelly, President and CEO, Tervis. “Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, Tervis was able to keep our headquarters open in order to manufacture our products, our employees were able to safely stay at work and provide for their families.”

“The pro-business atmosphere in Florida has been crucial for PGT innovations to prosper; specifically over the last 18 months, our business has benefited from low taxes from forward-thinking policies,” said Rod Hershberger, Chairman, PGT Innovations. “We’re able to stay open and continue working because of Governor DeSantis’ efforts to protect Florida jobs. This is the best place to work from a tax perspective and from the leadership that we have, and we intend to stay here for a long time.”

“Everybody in our industry feels we’ve got a governor that’s got our back, that’s working with us, that’s working to help us,” said John Horne, President & Owner, Anna Maria Oyster Bar. 

These three represent the sentiments of thousands of thriving and grateful Florida businesses.

FL Senator Kathleen Passidomo – Elected Senate President

“Entering public service amid a long legal career in the private sector, President-Designate Passidomo knows what it takes to run a successful business.  She also knows that more often than not, success in politics is getting government out of the way of decent, honest people who are just trying to work hard and make a living,” said Senate President Wilton Simpson.

The third week of Florida’s committee hearings proved to be an exciting time in Tallahassee.  While several committees continued to meet this week to discuss Florida’s child welfare system, student literacy and more, I was selected as the next Florida Senate President for the 2022-2024 legislative term.

On Tuesday, October 19, the Republican Caucus of the Florida Senate met in the Senate Chamber.  We were joined by Governor Ron DeSantis, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, Senate President Wilton Simpson, House Speaker Chris Sprowls, Speaker-designate Paul Renner, and many other current and former legislators.

On Tuesday, I was most proud to be joined by my 98-year-old father, Dr. Alfonse Cinotti; my husband of 42 years, John Passidomo; my three daughters, Catarina Passidomo Townes, Francesca Passidomo and Gabriella Passidomo; my sister, Carol and my aunt, Doris Cinotti.  I was also honored to have my fellow law partners and legal staff from the Kelly, Passidomo & Kelly firm in Naples.  The Senate Gallery was also filled with many friends and supporters from District 28 who traveled over six hours to Tallahassee for the ceremony.

I am extremely humbled to have been selected by my colleagues in the Senate for this statewide leadership role.  I am ready and willing to serve our great state.  The Florida Dream is alive and well, and we’re going to fight to protect it.  I look forward to working with each and every one of my fellow lawmakers in the years ahead and I’m grateful for the opportunity you’ve given me.  I will not let you — or our state — down.

Governor DeSantis calls for quick legislative action to block vaccine mandates

Governor DeSantis, Attorney General Ashley Moody, Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, and Floridians threatened with job loss due to vaccine mandates stood together today as the Governor called a Special Session of the Florida Legislature to provide protections for employees.

“Your right to earn a living should not be contingent upon COVID shots,” Governor DeSantis said. “When the vaccines first came out, we worked very hard to provide them, particularly to our elderly, but we said from day one: we will make it available for all, but we will mandate it on none because ultimately we want individuals to make the determinations about what is right for them. I want a state in which people are able to maintain their livelihoods, earn a living, and provide for their families. And if the federal government or big corporations are hurting people, then we have a responsibility to step up and lead.”

During this Special Session, Governor DeSantis is asking the Florida Legislature to provide protections for employees facing termination because of discriminatory vaccine mandates and to make clear that government entities, including school districts, may not fire any employee based on vaccine status. Employers’ broad liability protections should also be reevaluated if they harm their employees through vaccine mandates.

Further, the Governor is asking the Florida Legislature to provide greater protections to parents to manage the health care decisions of their children, including the freedom to opt their children out of mask mandates. According to Florida Department of Health data over the last twelve to fourteen months, COVID-19 infection data from Florida counties reflects no meaningful difference between counties with parent opt-outs for mask requirements.

There is strong support for these freedom-protecting steps in Florida leadership.

Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez: “Mandates have no place in the free state of Florida.”
Attorney General Moody: “We will always fight illegal government actions that negatively impact first responders, America’s workers, and public safety.”
Dr. Joseph Ladapo: “Condemning Americans to financial instability is detrimental to the well-being of this country and to public health.”

Florida Ports helping break supply chain logjam

Governor DeSantis is making it clear that Florida Seaports have the available capacity to help unclog the supply chain in America and meet holiday demand, while other seaports across the country, particularly in California, are struggling to keep up.
At an event with the Governor, Jaxport officials announced this week that they will be offering incentives to any company that chooses to bring its business to the port, freeing up backlogs at other ports while ensuring Americans are able to receive the goods they order.
“Year after year we continue to invest in our seaports, in infrastructure and in workforce education to make sure our supply chain is resilient,” Governor DeSantis said. “I’m especially proud of Florida’s seaports. They are crown jewels in our state.”
While California is just now opening their ports 24/7, that is the norm in Florida.
“While other U.S. ports are just now announcing around-the-clock operations, in Florida many of our ports are used to serving Florida farmers, families and businesses with 24-hour operations,” Governor DeSantis during a press conference at Jaxport. “As the rest of the nation faces rampant inflation and businesses stare down unprecedented supply chain problems, our message is this: Florida is here, we have capacity, we have incentive packages to help businesses who want to move here and we are going to make sure Americans get their Christmas Gifts this season.”
The Governor pointed out that at least one European container ship supplier has chosen Jaxport for its U.S. unloading destination bringing an extra 1,000 shipping containers a week through the port, highlighting an incentive package aimed at gaining more customers to the state.
The Governor also said that Port Everglades unloaded nearly 7,000 containers from a ship this past weekend, and a second ship from India is coming to the port with more than 9,000 containers.
“We in Florida have the ability to help alleviate the logjams and help ameliorate the problems with the supply chain,” the Governor said. “Part of it is because we’ve long been committed to reliable, modern and accessible port facilities.”

Fixing the City of Naples from Dysfunction and Resignations

Russell Tuff
Chairman, CCCVPAC

The dysfunction is getting worse with Naples City Council members. The city manager resigned, the new interim city manager resigned, and a couple of high ranking supervisors have left as well.

Naples government is falling apart. Action needs to take place to change the dysfunctional city council. The long marathon meetings with no meaningful outcomes are tiring. The change can only come through elections.

We’ve been here before.

Were you around in the early 1990’s? If you weren’t here, you didn’t witness the severe deterioration of 5th Ave South in Naples. It became depressing to walk what was once a vibrant downtown.

It became run down with many open storefronts. There was a group of city council people nicknamed the “Three Amigos” who were against investing in downtown and let the deterioration continue.

To meet consumer demand, new shopping locations were built to meet consumer demand. The mall expanded, we saw Waterside Shops, Village Walk, and later Mercato.

Improving Naples

It was determined at that time something had to change in City Hall. A few vision projects took place across the community to get the public engaged with names like FOCUS and other planning programs.

Eventually, Andres Duany was hired to create a new vision for downtown Naples, and we see the result of that.

Businesses always need to be changing, adapting, and investing to remain vibrant. People began to proudly walk downtown with great dining and shopping. It became one of the jewels of Naples again.

Once again we are see the area get a little tired and the need to revitalize certain areas is becoming apparent if we are to maintain the strength and jewel of Naples.

There is resistance and dragging of feet with the current city council members, who want to focus on “affordable housing’ and other ventures, while the streets need better lighting to keep residents safe and planned improvements are delayed.

What we are seeing is a good example in Naples of what is happening in the US now that Democrats have taken control – Complete dysfunction.

The Cure for Naples

Why are we here again? It is because we elected Democrats who changed their political affiliation in order to be more palatable to the Naples Republican base.

We have the ability to remove those formerly Democrat candidates. We just have to show up to vote.

We will disclose who the Republicans are in the election to help you vote to right the ship.

We have a Ratings committee set up to evaluate the current candidates and any new people putting their hat in the ring. We will keep you informed of the findings, based on voting records, experience and remaining true to Republican values.

We need to send out postcards, emails, electronic and social media advertisements to change the dysfunction in Naples City Council. If you agree, we could use your help.

Please donate $20.22 for the 2022 election cycle and keep Naples as the crown jewel it is today.

To Donate $20. 22- Click Here

To Donate More – Click Here

Congressman Byron Donalds Weekly Wrap Up

For most of last week, the House of Representatives stood in recess with Speaker Pelosi calling back members for just one day to pass legislation raising the debt ceiling.

The reckless spending passed by Democrat leadership is further bankrupting our children, increasing inflation to record highs, and burdening the American people. The supply chain crisis we are seeing is seeping into all aspects of our economy and hurting the livelihoods of all Americans. Look no further to companies like Waffle House who announced a new company policy to offer a limited menu in the wake of skyrocketing inflation and continued hiring issues.

The Biden administration’s encouragement of permanent government handouts is causing a widespread worker shortage and an unmotivated workforce. Yet, despite crisis after crisis created by this President, he’s absent. Joe Biden has been missing at the border, absent following the Afghanistan crisis, and now his absence as POTUS has caused one of the worst supply chain crises this nation has ever experienced. Rather than encourage the American workforce to get back to work to grow our economy, this administration would instead pass socialist spending programs that increase the power and purview of the federal government, ultimately systemically transforming the United States of America. When Washington bureaucrats meddle with the economy, economic success falters rapidly, and any hope of keeping the American Dream alive diminishes.

As we approach the 2021 holiday season, our country is experiencing another massive blow to its wallets: inflation. Gas prices are up 42%, electricity more than 5%, used cars up nearly 25%, and other household essentials are increasing by the day. The holidays are already an economically stressful time for most American families; however, thanks to Joe Biden’s rising inflation and the supply chain shortage, families across the nation are going to feel the burden of Bidenomics this holiday season. Frankly, the American people can’t afford Joe Biden.

Continue reading below for an update on events throughout Southwest Florida, important legislation on Capitol Hill, and more!

________________________________________

Honoring the Life & Legacy of
General Colin Powell

________________________________________

National Police Week

This National Police Week, we honor and memorialize the brave officers whose courage and bravery embodies the very best of America. For committing each and every day to protect and serve our communities, we are a grateful nation. For their sacrifices, selflessness, and dedication to service – we honor all of those we have lost. These men and women are heroes and we must never forget their bravery, nor their valor.

________________________________________

Legislative Updates

The Cuban people need & deserve the full support of the United States in their relentless and righteous fight for liberation.

Last week, I introduced the DEMOCRACIA Act- this legislation will hold the communist Cuban regime accountable for its human rights violations.

For a list of House Co-Sponsors and more on this important legislation, click here.

________________________________________
The supply chain crisis is just another crisis on the long and growing list of problems on the desk of President Biden.

I’m proud to join my Republican colleagues on the House Oversight and Reform Committee in demanding answers and accountability for the national security crisis Biden created. Read more on this letter below:

Fox News: House Oversight Republicans call on Biden admin to address ‘ongoing supply chain crisis’

________________________________________

Community Engagement

I was honored to receive the Job Creator’s Defender of Small Business Award last week. As a member of the House Small Business Committee, and a constitutional conservative, I’ll always defend our small businesses from mandates, bureaucratic red tape, and increased taxes.

Thank you!

________________________________________

In the Media

Our country can’t survive the division the radical left is spewing in the form of Critical Race Theory. Children should be free to learn our entire history without leftist bias.

We need to empower our children to lead our nation, not divide our country.

More of my thoughts on Fox News’ ‘Ingraham Angle’:

________________________________________
At the risk of political persecution, the Cuban protestors are sending a message to the rest of the world: The dream of liberty is worth the sacrifice and is worth the fight.

Read my newest Op-Ed on the brave Cuban people fighting the evils of communism, featured exclusively in the Fort Myers News-Press:

Rep. Byron Donalds: In a Nation Deprived and Starved of Optimism, There is Hope

________________________________________
ICYMI: I joined Steve Varney, host of ‘Varney & Co.’ on Fox Business last week to discuss vaccine mandates and Florida’s Leon County opposing Governor DeSantis’ Executive Action vaccine mandates, and more.

Watch the interview below:

________________________________________
Last week, I joined ‘The Evening Edit’ on Fox Business to discuss the ongoing supply chain crisis created by Joe Biden, how Washington bureaucrats hindered Americans economic success, and the disastrous impacts permanent government checks have on the American economy.

Watch the full interview below:

________________________________________

Serving the hardworking men and women of Florida’s 19th Congressional District is my distinct honor and privilege. It’s time Washington works for our community’s values, and every day I will always strive to ensure your government is working for you.

Sincerely,

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress

FL Senator Kathleen Passidomo Update

We just completed the second week of committee hearings in Tallahassee. Several committees met this week to hear briefings about the data-driven efforts to regrow Florida’s economy and strengthen tourism in the state. We also received updates on the modernization of Florida’s highways.

Next week, the Republican Caucus of the Florida Senate will meet to elect a Senate President for the 2022-2024 legislative term. I am extremely humbled and honored to be nominated. I am also grateful for the support of my colleagues in the Senate, my professional staff in the office and the constituents of District 28. Thank you for the opportunity to serve our great state. If you are interested to tune into the ceremony next week, I’ve included information below on how to view the livestream.

The Senate Republican Caucus Meeting and Senate President Designation is Next Tuesday

The Republican Caucus of the Florida Senate will meet on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at 3:00 p.m. in the Florida Senate Chamber to officially select the next President-Designate for the 2022-2024 Legislative Term.
You may tune in to watch the event at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 19 at https://thefloridachannel.org.

History of Women Presidents of the Florida Senate

Next Tuesday, during the Senate President designation ceremony, I will be the third woman ever elected to serve as Senate President of the state of Florida.
In 1990, Senator Gwen Margolis (D-Miami), a former realtor, became the first woman to serve as President of the Florida Senate. President Margolis retired from the Senate in 2016, concluding more than four decades of elected service in state and local government. She passed away last year on June 9, 2020, at the age of 85.
In 1996, Senator Toni Jennings (R-Orlando), a former elementary school teacher who later ran her family’s construction business, became the second woman to serve as Senate President in Florida. She later became the first woman to serve as Lt. Governor. President Jennings, 72, retired from elected office in 2007, upon the conclusion of her term as Lt. Governor. She continues to reside in Central Florida.
Presidents Margolis and Jennings were both inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame.

Reapportionment and Redistricting

The Florida Constitution directs the Legislature to redraw district boundaries during the Regular Session in the second year following each decennial census. When the Legislative Session convenes on January 11, 2022, this once-in-a-decade process of updating congressional, state House and Senate boundaries will be on the agenda. The new maps will be completed in compliance with both the U.S. and Florida constitutions.
Senate President Wilton Simpson created three committees to conduct the redistricting and reapportionment processes: The Senate Committee on Reapportionment, chaired by Senator Ray Rodrigues; The Select Subcommittee on Congressional Reapportionment, chaired by Senator Jennifer Bradley; and the Select Subcommittee on Legislative Reapportionment, chaired by Senator Danny Burgess. These committees will meet during the 2022 Legislative Session and during the preceding interim committee weeks to discuss the process, consider maps and receive public testimony.

During this interim committee week, the Senate Committee on Reapportionment held a meeting to hear a presentation from legal counsel regarding redistricting law, to watch a walkthrough and demonstration of the new www.FloridaRedistricting.gov website and mapping tool, and to hear public testimony.
The 2022 Redistricting website is a joint website created in coordination with the Florida House of Representatives. Through this website, members of the public have access to all of the same data and map-drawing application used by the Legislators and staff, and after creating a free account can submit redistricting plans for Senators to consider. The website also provides extensive information about the 2022 redistricting process and how the public can get involved.
Each committee meeting can be watched live at www.TheFloridaChannel.org. If you wish to provide online feedback, you may do so at www.FloridaRedistricting.gov/pages/public-input.

Florida’s Long-Range Financial Outlook is Bright

Florida remained free and open for business in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As members of the Senate Committee on Appropriations begin to develop Florida’s budget for the 2022-23 Fiscal Year, they are analyzing the effects of these data-driven recovery efforts on our state’s economy. This week, Amy Baker, the Office of Economic and Demographic Research Coordinator, presented Florida’s Long-Range Financial Outlook and Revenue Forecast.
Appropriations Chair Kelli Stargel and committee members received updates on Floridians’ personal income, unemployment, the housing market, sales tax and general revenue. Following an economic downturn in FY 2019-20, Florida has rebounded stronger than expected largely due to swiftly re-opening our economy.
Ms. Baker reported that Florida’s general revenue is on track to substantially surpass pre-pandemic economic estimates. The revenue forecast even received a significant increase from estimates made in April, with estimates revised upward to the tune of $2.6 billion over the next two years. Florida’s unemployment rate continues to remain below the national average, with approximately 77 percent of the 1.27 million jobs lost during the pandemic already restored.
Additionally, Florida’s personal income is expected to continue to increase as more Floridians find new opportunities in the workforce.
While some economic uncertainty and challenges still remain, Florida is in a far better position than other states.

Florida is Everyone’s Favorite Destination

Unlike other states, Florida remained open for business in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it shows. VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Dana Young outlined to the Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism, chaired by Senator Ed Hooper, the ongoing efforts that have generated record tourism numbers and a historic return on investment (ROI).
VISIT FLORIDA is Florida’s official tourism and marketing corporation that promotes our state around the country and internationally as a premier destination.
The presentation by CEO Young highlighted that following 10 years of consecutive record visitation in 2019, our state saw a 40-percent dip in visitations during the 2020 pandemic year.
Florida is now beating out destinations like New York, Hawaii, California and Las Vegas as a favorite destination among American travelers. At the onset of the pandemic in March of last year, VISIT FLORIDA began working on a comprehensive plan to bring visitors back to the state. This aggressive and well-timed marketing, while other states remained closed, resulted in Florida receiving a return on investment (ROI) of $3.27 for every dollar invested in VISIT FLORIDA according to the Legislature’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research —the highest ROI calculation for VISIT FLORIDA to date.

The presentation also highlighted that between April and June of this year, Florida welcomed 31.7 million total visitors, an increase of more than 220 percent from 2020. Florida also consistently outperforms the national average on key performance indicators including hotel demand, traveler spending and domestic air capacity. At the U.S. Travel Association’s Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations, the president and CEO of Visit California admitted, “Florida is eating our lunch.”

Modernizing Florida’s Roadways

The Senate Committee on Transportation, chaired by Senator Gayle Harrell, is working to continue the modernization of Florida’s roadways. Soon residents will be able to download digital versions of their drivers’ licenses and identification cards to their mobile devices as an additional option for proof of age, identity and driving privileges. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) updated the committee on the implementation of these electronic credentials, known as Florida Smart ID.
Last session, Chair Harrell championed the passage of House Bill 1313, Digital Drivers Licenses and Identification Cards. The innovative law directs DHSMV to establish a secure and uniform system to issue optional digital IDs to Floridians with verified IDs and builds on the department’s multi-phased program to make digital IDs contactless and secure.
The Smart ID serves as an identification “proof” with a limited profile, so only specific information will be available to requesters of a Smart ID through the electronic credentialing system. The law also protects the privacy of users by prohibiting private entities from storing, selling or sharing personal information collected by scanning a digital driver’s license or ID unless consent is provided.

The Florida Smart ID app will be available for use on IOS and Android phones and tablets. To ensure these digital IDs will be recognized and accepted throughout Florida and the country, DHSMV reported the Florida Smart ID meets American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards.
The committee also heard updates from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) on the efforts to strengthen the resiliency of Florida’s transportation system, the backbone of our economy’s supply chain. The implementation of the resiliency policy will center on the ability to adapt to changing conditions, withstand and recover from natural disasters which will continue to build on the solid foundation of our state.

$5.8 Million to Collier County Public Schools

On Friday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced more than $5.8 million in Florida Job Growth Grant Funds to Collier County Public Schools to open iTECH Glades Technical College in Moore Haven, a new location of Immokalee Technical College.
I worked closely with Secretary Dane Eagle of the Department of Economic Opportunity to secure funding for the program.
The new iTECH Glades campus in Moore Haven will serve an area that does not have any post-secondary training programs within 30 miles. The $5.8 million award will cover five years of startup costs for the technical college and will allow the campus to offer 12 career training programs. Workforce training will be offered in high-demand fields such as HVAC, diesel systems, accounting, nursing, welding and healthcare, and will be available to Floridians in Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Okeechobee and Collier counties.
“I am proud to award $5.8 million through the Governor’s Job Growth Grant Fund to create a new technical college campus in Moore Haven,” said Governor DeSantis. “This new campus will provide the area with access to workforce education that actually helps Floridians find high-paying jobs without being saddled by debt. By investing in projects that make a meaningful difference to Florida’s workforce, we have been able to keep our economy growing month-after-month, and we are continuing to build an even stronger industrial base in our state.”