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Mario’s Message: August 30, 2021

August 30, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Welcome to another edition of Mario’s Message. Here are the latest updates on all things happening in Washington and Florida’s 25^thCongressional District.

Remembering 13 Fallen Heroes

On August 26, 2021, American troops, civilians, and Afghan allies were injured and killed by an Islamic State suicide bombing outside Kabul airport. The actions and lack of planning and forethought by the Biden Administration these last few weeks have irrevocably damaged our national security and our standing with our allies while putting Americans in harm’s way. Right now, our priority should be to do everything we can to bring all American citizens and Afghan allies back to safety. Once this is done, Congress must use its constitutional powers to hold this Administration accountable for this dangerous and damaging catastrophe that cost the lives of 13 U.S. Marines. We will never forget these brave heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. Our nation mourns for them. I pray for their families and loved ones.

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Office Hours Near You

Every week, to make our services more accessible, we bring our office to you by hosting outreach hours in neighborhoods all over our community. Residents of Florida’s 25th District are welcome to meet with a member of my staff to discuss federal issues or any problems that they may have with a federal agency. To find the nearest office hours, click here.

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$3.5 Trillion Reckless Spending Bill

Last week, House Democratic Leadership pushed forward a $3.5 trillion spending bill that is filled with nothing but socialist policies and wasteful spending that will kill American jobs, prop the Chinese Communist Party by sending American businesses overseas, escalating taxes on hardworking Americans, and increase the already-growing inflation. If signed into law, this would have catastrophic, long-term effects on the livelihood of hardworking American families and businesses. Our nation is already feeling the effects of rising inflation, and small businesses continue to face a dire labor shortage. Further increasing our national debt will not only extend the duration and magnitude of this problem, but it will also have devastating implications on our nation’s economy.

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Cuban-American Community in Naples

It was an honor to meet with the Cuban-American community in Collier County to discuss the ongoing situation in Cuba and to stand in solidarity with the Cuban freedom movement.

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COVID-19 Vaccine Information

The state is hosting mobile, one-day vaccination clinics in partnership with local community organizations to increase vaccine access to all Floridians.

Mobile vaccine locations can be found here.

There are also State and Federally-supported vaccination sites near you!

Visit my website for additional details and a comprehensive list of COVID-19 vaccine distribution sites in our community.

Additional COVID-19 Resources

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Stay Connected

To keep up with live updates, connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram, or visit my website for any constituent services I am able to provide you with.

As always, it’s a pleasure to serve you.

Warm Regards,

Mario Diaz-Balart

Member of Congress

Republican Party of Florida: RPOF Update

August 30, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Chairman’s Message

Another Media Hit Job Collapses On Itself

Apparently, the corporate media will continue to try to smear Governor Ron DeSantis with baseless, ignorant hit jobs. It is an acknowledgment of the effectiveness of our Governor’s leadership, and the fear he creates in his political opponents.

In the latest installment, after the widely debunked 60 Minutes attack piece, the Florida Associated Press took its shot with a story that not only was a political attack on the Governor, but worse it jeopardized the health of its readers. The article, titled “DeSantis top donor invests in COVID drug governor promotes,” was framed in dangerous political insinuations that will undoubtedly lead some people to decline seeking the life-saving treatment.

After the Governor’s staff rightly dispelled the misleading narrative and exposed the partisan agenda of the Associated Press story, the media outlet sent a letter to Governor DeSantis August 20, criticizing him for his staff’s efforts to correct the record. That’s when the Governor responded personally to the brazen AP, writing a letter not only defending his staff, but once again calling on the Associated Press and corporate outlets to stop creating conspiracy theories, publishing clickbait headlines, and circulating partisan political narratives, at the expense of readers and their health.

In his letter to Daisy Veerasingham, the AP’s incoming CEO, Governor DeSantis said he expected Veerasingham was writing to notify him they were retracting their story, not whining that his Press Secretary had done her job and rightly pushed back on the partisan story.

“Instead, you had the temerity to complain about the deserved blowback that your botched and discredited attempt to concoct a political narrative has received. This ploy will not work to divert attention from the fact that the Associated Press published a false narrative that will lead some to decline effective treatment for COVID infections.”

He pointed out that clinical trials of monoclonal antibody treatments result in a 70% reduction in hospitalization and death. That’s a hugely beneficial treatment, and the AP story undermined people’s confidence in it.

Read the Governor’s full letter: https://www.nationalreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AP-Letter-from-Governor-DeSantis-2.pdf

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Speaking of the monoclonal rapid response teams, Governor DeSantis continues to travel our state for the opening of new treatment centers targeted at high-need areas. There are now 18 such centers open. It’s a lot of work but the Governor knows it’s worth it to get the information to Floridians that this can be a life-saving treatment.

Monoclonal antibody treatments can be prescribed by health care providers to individuals 12 years of age and older who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and are at high risk for severe illness and hospitalization. However, at Governor DeSantis’ direction, there is currently a standing order in Florida signed by the State Surgeon General that allows patients to receive this treatment without a prescription or referral if administered by an eligible health care provider. Such referrals are not required at any of the State of Florida monoclonal antibody treatment sites and treatments are available at no cost to patients.

The antibodies help the immune system recognize and respond effectively to the virus. According to the treatment guidelines, they should be administered as soon as possible after diagnosis. By providing access to these treatments at these new sites, Governor DeSantis is alleviating demand on hospital resources and further making sure that Floridians have access to all potential treatments that can help them recover from COVID-19.

Find locations to receive monoclonal antibody treatments here: floridahealthcovid19.gov.

Additionally, Governor DeSantis and the Florida Department of Health continue to encourage Floridians to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Find where vaccines here: https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/vaccines/vaccine-locator/

Florida

Once again, Governor DeSantis was correct in his approach to Covid. A new CDC study shows there is no rationale to forcibly mask children. After analyzing 90,000 Georgia elementary students, the CDC confirmed no significant statistical difference between optional and mandatory masked schools.

So, while the Biden Administration continues to fixate on Florida and Governor DeSantis, their own CDC study vindicates our Governor’s approach. And doing what makes him such a strong leader, Governor DeSantis refused to bow to the baseless White House attacks and chastised the administration for its obsession with using the federal government to forcibly mask children.

“I mean, you’ve got to wonder, where are your priorities that you’re so obsessed with this issue and so obsessed with taking away parents’ rights?” the governor asked. “And you’re letting Afghanistan burn, our border burn, and so many other things in our country fall to pieces.”

Read the story here: https://thefederalist.com/2021/08/24/desantis-vindicated-theres-no-science-behind-masks-on-kids/

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Even New York Magazine reported that, “Children are less likely to have severe disease from SARS-CoV-2, and when infected less likely to be symptomatic, which correlates with lower contagiousness. Those facts alone may account for part of the reason why the Georgia study found no clear benefit for a masking requirement for kids in schools.”

Read it here: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2021/08/the-science-of-masking-kids-at-school-remains-uncertain.html?utm_source=tw&utm_campaign=nym&utm_medium=s1

Governor DeSantis announced Florida will host the upcoming Hula Bowl at the University of Central Florida’s Bounce House Stadium in 2022. The game, set for January 15, 2022, will be the ninth NCAA bowl game in Florida during the upcoming college football season. The Hula Bowl, which started in 1946, is a postseason “All Star” bowl game, featuring standout NCAA football players from all divisions.

“On behalf of our entire state, I’m proud to welcome the Hula Bowl to Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Our state continues to attract premier athletic events, which is great news for our economy, Florida families, and the fans who come here from all over the world for world-class experiences.”

“The state of Florida has been amazing in welcoming our game to the Sunshine State and Governor DeSantis made it clear to us that the state of Florida is indeed open for business,” said Jennifer Logan, Executive Vice President of the Hula Bowl. “The Governor’s support for Floridians is clear.”

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The South Florida Water Management District held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an underground seepage wall in the 8.5 Square Mile Area (Las Palmas Community). The underground concrete wall will help mitigate flooding in the area, keep water in Everglades National Park, and support increased flows of water south which are necessary for Everglades restoration.

“When I took office, I made Everglades restoration and protection of Florida’s water resources a top priority,” Governor DeSantis said. “My administration has provided record investments and expedited key projects to restore the Everglades and send more water south. Today’s groundbreaking is yet another example of my administration’s commitment to Florida’s natural resources.”

Seepage walls are well-established engineering structures that help to limit the flow of water underground that can lead to above-ground flooding.

Washington, D.C.

The FBI very quietly exonerated President Trump and his supporters of any organized plot at the Capitol on January 6.

According to Reuters, which “broke” the story last Friday: “The FBI has found scant evidence that the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol was the result of an organized plot to overturn the presidential election result, according to four current and former law enforcement officials.” Reuters also reported: “Senior lawmakers have been briefed in detail on the results of the FBI’s investigation so far and find them credible, a Democratic congressional source said.”

To sum up, the entire Democrat/media narrative of insurrection and organized plots against the United States government was false. Most Republicans have known that to be the case all along, and now the rest of the country knows. Sort of.

It must be pointed out that the FBI leaked this late Friday — for decades a favored moment for politicians to release something they want to bury. In this case, it was also a Friday afternoon when the glaring story was the fall of Kabul and total hand over of Afghanistan to the Taliban by the Biden Administration. This timing was an obvious political act by federal law enforcement and should worry all Americans.

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The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday night that the Biden administration likely violated federal law in trying to end President Trump’s Remain in Mexico program that had partnered with Mexican authorities to stabilize the border by requiring people to wait in Mexico while seeking asylum in the U.S. The Biden administration simply ended it with no other plan, kneecapped the Border Patrol and created a quasi-open Southern Border that has since been overrun.

A federal judge in Texas had previously ordered the Remain in Mexico program be reinstated. Both he and the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals refused the Biden administration’s request to put the ruling on hold.

So, the Supreme Court ruling requires the Biden administration to make a “good faith effort” to restart the program. However, the administration already essentially ignored a Supreme Court ruling on its eviction ban, so it’s hard to know if it will ignore this ruling, too, continue its policy under a different program or obey the ruling.

Read the short ruling: https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/082421zr_2d9g.pdf

Social Media Highlights

REMEMBER: @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen.

Help Us Keep Florida Red – Join Us – Labor Day Weekend Clambake

August 18, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Kick off your Labor Day weekend by Joining us Saturday, September 4th, from 6 to 9 pm at Kensington Country Club for a Clambake Dinner and dance.

Hear from elected Republican officials, enjoy great food, great camaraderie with fellow patriots, and music and dancing provided by Jason Beal.

Special Guests:

State Representative Bob Rommel – Speaking about Hurricane Insurance price reductions and what’s next.
State Representative Lauren Melo – Speaking on what’s coming in the next session.
County Commissioner Bill McDaniel – Speaking about the upcoming budget and how you can help bring it down.
Multiple candidates on the 2022 Ballot

We will be serving up Clams, Mussels, Shrimp and Sausage along with Corn and Potatoes. There will be a chicken dish for those who can’t eat shell fish. Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks will be provided.

Reserve Your Ticket Below

Fill out my online form.

<a href="https://tuffnews.wufoo.com/forms/zefzqs00q6lfyx?entsource=wordpress" rel="nofollow">Fill out my Wufoo form!</a>

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review: 8/15

August 15, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

This week, as Senate Democrats unilaterally pushed through a $5.5 TRILLION tax-and-spending spree that will drive the federal debt to more than $45 TRILLION over the next decade, Senator Rick Scott fought against this wasteful spending, which will further fuel President Biden’s raging inflation crisis and hurt families in Florida and across the nation already struggling to make ends meet.

Over the last week, the failed policies of the Biden administration and Democrats in Congress continued to bring bad news to Florida families:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) reported encounters with 212,672 illegal immigrants on the U.S. southern border – the most in 20 YEARS.
Inflation has grown every month of Joe Biden’s presidency, making life more and more expensive for American families:
- The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 5.4% in July – matching the troubling increase reported for the 12-month period ending in June 2021, which was the largest 12-month increase since 2008. Annualized, the monthly CPI growth rate reached 5.9% in July.
- The Producer Price Index (PPI) increased 7.8% in July – up significantly from the 7.3% increase reported for the 12-month period ending in June 2021. Annualized, the monthly PPI growth rate in was a staggering 13.1% in July.

See more from Senator Scott in the video HERE or below.

Sen. Rick Scott: Democrats’ $5.5 TRILLION Tax-and-Spending Spree Drives America to $45 TRILLION Nightmare

Following Senate Democrats’ passage of their $5.5 TRILLION tax-and-spending spree package without any Republican support. The Democrats’ reckless $5.5 trillion tax-and-spending spree is estimated to drive the federal debt to more than $45,000,000,000,000 by 2031 – a more than $15,000,000,000,000 increase in just 10 years.

This comes as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) this morning released the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data showing that inflation has again risen significantly. Year-over-year, consumer prices increased 5.4% in July – matching the troubling increase reported for the 12-month period ending in June 2021, which was the largest 12-month increase since 2008. Annualized, the monthly CPI growth rate reached 5.9% in July.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Under unified Democrat rule, liberals in Washington have welcomed a socialist agenda that is drowning America in debt, fueling a raging inflation crisis and hiking taxes on Florida families. We know that reckless government spending causes higher inflation – raising prices and making life more expensive for every family, especially those on low and fixed-incomes, like mine growing up. Today’s CPI report shows that President Biden’s inflation crisis rages on, hurting more families every day.

“Bernie Sanders’ budget is driving America toward a $45,000,000,000,000 debt nightmare and killing jobs by hiking taxes that hurt every American family. Our nation can’t afford this socialist nightmare. If the Democrats insist on engaging in this reckless tax-and-spending spree, it’s up to them to own what they’ve done, find the courage to face the American people and raise the debt ceiling the same way they’ve passed this unbelievable spending – without a single Republican vote in support.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Bernie Sanders’ Budget Puts America’s Children on the Hook for his Socialist Agenda

Senator Rick Scott was joined by Senators Ron Johnson and Mike Lee in a press conference highlighting the massive debt and inflation that will be created by the Democrats’ $5.5 trillion reckless tax-and-spending spree. Senate Democrats released the text of their proposed budget resolution which estimates that their insane spending will drive the federal debt to more than $45,000,000,000,000 by 2031 – a more than $15,000,000,000,000 increase in just 10 years.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Democrats will do anything to push their radical socialist agenda – even if that means hurting our families and small businesses in the process. The massive spending of Joe Biden and Democrats here in Washington is causing unbelievable inflation. Gas is up more than a dollar since last year. Groceries are more expensive. And it’s all caused by reckless government spending. Now, Democrats are doubling down with $5.5 trillion in reckless spending. Their unbalanced budget grows America’s debt to $45 TRILLION. It’s clear that Bernie Sanders controls the Democrat Party and his agenda of systemic socialism, endorsed by Chuck Schumer, Nancy Pelosi and Joe Biden, is in full swing. We can’t afford this. American families facing higher and higher inflation and skyrocketing prices can’t afford this. We have to stop this insane spending that is fueling Joe Biden’s raging inflation crisis and hurting hardworking families.” Watch more in the video HERE.

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Senate Unanimously Approves Sen. Rick Scott’s Amendment Stopping Tax Dollars from Benefitting Hamas Terrorists

The United States Senate unanimously adopted Senator Rick Scott’s amendment to the Democrats’ massive $5.5 TRILLION tax-and-spending spree budget bill to stand up for Israel by preventing taxpayer funding from going to Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad or any other terrorist organization. The amendment would also allow for further sanctions against these terrorist groups.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Earlier this year, we saw Hamas rockets rain down on Israel for 11 straight days. Children, like five-year-old Ido Avigal, died in these attacks. In the face of these tragic attacks, we saw Democrats in Washington stand with Hamas and resist needed action to hold these terrorists accountable. We can’t stop fighting for Israel. We must stand strong with our ally and against the horrific anti-Israel rhetoric. I am proud that the Senate adopted my amendment today to keep U.S. taxpayer dollars out of the hands of Hamas terrorists and allow for more sanctions on those who wish harm to Israel.” Watch more in the video HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott Fighting for Florida Families, Against Wasteful Spending in Democrats’ $5.5 Trillion Tax-and-Spending Spree

Senator Rick Scott announced several amendments to the Democrats’ massive and reckless $5.5 trillion tax-and-spending spree which is estimated to drive the federal debt to more than $45,000,000,000,000 by 2031 – a more than $15,000,000,000,000 increase in just 10 years. Senator Scott has been clear that the Democrats’ reckless spending is throwing gas on President Biden’s raging inflation crisis, and only serves to fulfill their liberal wish list by adding to our nation’s nearly $30 trillion federal debt and raising taxes on American families.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Families in Florida and across our nation are struggling with higher prices on gas, groceries and everyday goods thanks to President Biden’s raging inflation crisis and Democrats’ socialist agenda of handouts and reckless spending. We know that reckless government spending fuels inflation, but even as America nears $30 trillion in debt, President Biden, Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi are letting Bernie Sanders lead them in $5.5 trillion in even more reckless spending. Bernie Sanders’ budget puts American families on the hook for his socialist agenda, further fueling inflation as it grows America’s debt to $45 TRILLION over the coming decade.

“The Democrats have made clear that they don’t care about the impacts of their spending on American families – if it takes higher taxes, even more inflation and crippling federal debt that mortgages the futures of our kids and grandkids, Democrats say, ‘so be it.’ We can’t afford this and families can’t afford even more inflation. We need to make Washington work for Florida families. That’s why I am fighting for amendments to protect families from rising inflation and tax hikes, hold Congress and the Biden administration accountable for its reckless spending and put America on a sustainable path for future success.” Read more HERE.

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Senators Rick Scott, Ron Johnson and Colleagues Commit to Not Raising Debt Ceiling for Democrats’ $5.5 Trillion Tax-and-Spending Spree

Yesterday, Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Ron Johnson and more than 40 of their colleagues in a letter promising they will not vote to increase the debt ceiling. Senator Scott has been demanding that Congress take action to get America’s nearly $30 trillion federal debt under control and urging his colleagues to refuse to increase the debt ceiling without also enacting true spending reform, like his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act. Read more from Senator Johnson’s office HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden’s Inflation Crisis Fueled by Democrats’ Radical Tax-and-Spending Spree

Following the latest Producer Price Index (PPI) release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Senator Rick Scott released the below statement demanding President Joe Biden address the inflation crisis created under his administration. July’s PPI data shows that there has been a notable and sustained increase in inflation every month of Biden’s presidency.

Year over year, producer prices increased 7.8% in July – a rise from the 7.3% increase reported for the 12-month period ending in June 2021 and the largest 12-month increase since 12-month data were first calculated in 2010. Annualized, the monthly PPI growth rate reached 13.1% in July.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Inflation has gone up every month of Biden’s presidency thanks to insane government spending. Families in Florida and across the nation are struggling to make ends meet as the prices of everyday goods go up. But instead of addressing Biden’s inflation crisis, Democrats in Washington have decided the answer is MORE reckless spending. Yesterday, Senate Democrats unilaterally pushed through a $5.5 trillion tax-and-spending spree that will drive the federal debt to more than $45 TRILLION by 2031. It’s time Biden admits that his party’s liberal wish list is destroying our nation, and it’s time he does something about it.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Writes Open Letter to Florida Families and Businesses on 40th Anniversary of President Reagan’s Landmark Economic Recovery Tax Act

Senator Rick Scott wrote an open letter to Florida families and businesses in recognition of the 40th anniversary of President Ronald Reagan signing the historic Economic Recovery Tax Act (ERTA) of 1981. In his letter, Senator Scott discusses why Americans must reject the failed economic policies of President Biden and Democrats, which are causing skyrocketing inflation and driving our federal debt toward $45 TRILLION. Senator Scott urges his fellow Floridians to join him in promoting Florida’s proven playbook of lower taxes and less regulations at the federal level which will lead to a thriving American economy and endless opportunity for families to live the American dream. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Issues Weekly Update on Biden’s Inflation Crisis

Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation. As the wasteful, reckless spending of the Biden administration and congressional Democrats leads to growing inflation and rising prices of every day goods, Senator Scott is urging the president to end his failed economic policies and address rising inflation on American families. Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott in the Wall Street Journal: Bernie Sanders Ushering in Unprecedented Era of Taxing, Spending & Government Control

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the Wall Street Journal in response to Senate Budget Chairman Bernie Sanders’ recent op-ed, Why We Need the $3.5 Trillion Reconciliation Package.

In the letter to the editor, Senator Rick Scott wrote, “We need structural reforms to improve the lives of U.S. families,’ writes Sen. Sanders. I couldn’t agree more. Where my Democratic colleague and I differ greatly is on what structural reform looks like.

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The structural reform Americans truly need is for government to get out of the way and out of their lives. We need to cut taxes and regulations to spur job growth and innovation.

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We need to stop the reckless spending. It has led to runaway inflation, surging prices and unsustainable levels of national debt.

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Mr. Sanders wants to usher in an unprecedented era of government taxing, spending and control. We can’t let it happen.”

Read the full letter to the editor in the Wall Street Journal HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Writes Open Letter to Florida Families and Businesses on 40th Anniversary of President Reagan’s Landmark Economic Recovery Tax Act

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NPR: Republican Sen. Rick Scott Talks Infrastructure, Climate And The Pandemic In Florida

One America News Network: GOP Lawmakers Criticize Dems Tax And Spending Policies

One America News Network: Sen. Scott Opposes Democrat Tax And Spend Policies

Gray TV: Sen. Rick Scott opposes infrastructure plan over price tag

WCTV: Florida leaders pay respects to Bobby Bowden

Miami Herald: Rubio, Rick Scott vote ‘no’ as Senate passes $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill

The Villages-News: Rubio and Scott vote against $1.2 trillion bi-partisan infrastructure bill

Tallahassee Democrat: U.S. Must relive the days of Ronald Reagan’s economic policies

Florida Daily: Florida’s Senators Vote Against $1 Trillion Infrastructure Bill

Florida Daily: Rick Scott: Washington Should Follow Ronald Reagan’s and Florida’s Playbook

Republican Party of Florida: RPOF Update

August 15, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Chairman’s Message

On the Right Side of Civil Liberties

The erosion of civil liberties over the decades has gone into lightspeed in recent months with the Covid-related mask mandates, vaccine passports and shutdowns, taking it from the important realm of public health to the critical realm of personal freedom.

That’s why the battle being waged by Governor Ron DeSantis and other courageous, principled Republicans on behalf of the essential civil liberty of freedom is so vital and requires our support. In the case of mask mandates, it is a question of whether it is the right of parents to decide if their child should be masked, or government-run schools. Some union-beholden school boards in Florida want to make the decision, then dictate that on every student and parent. For Governor DeSantis, it’s the parents who should decide — they can mask their children or not mask them — and that is the side of individual freedoms.

It’s the same dynamic in vaccine passports. The Governor supports the vaccines and has been vaccinated. But he, like most Republicans, believes that the decision should be up to each individual, not government entities including public schools, and not corporations or businesses. In America, in the Republican Party, we treasure freedom and will fight to defend it.

As part of this fight, parental rights were strengthened this past week when the Florida Department of Health and State Board of Education issued Emergency Rules to protect parents’ freedom to choose what is best for their children. These rules are pursuant to the Governor’s Executive Order 21-175 to allow an effective, in-person learning environment for Florida’s school children during the upcoming school year, preventing harm to healthy students and safeguarding the rights of parents and their children.

This rule is to ensure Floridians’ constitutional freedoms are not violated, do not violate parents’ rights under Florida law to make health care decisions for their minor children; and protect children with disabilities or health conditions who would be harmed by certain protocols, such as face masking requirements.

Read more HERE.

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Note on our Third Quarter Meeting:

Omni Hotels & Resorts will continue with its current Safe and Clean protocols, but will follow state and local mandates pertaining to guest and associate requirements for mask wearing and social distancing while indoors. At this time there aren’t any mandates for Osceola or Orange counties.

Florida

Highlighting how Florida gives bonuses to law enforcement, not defunds it, Governor Ron DeSantis recognized several law enforcement officers, first responders, and rescue teams in presenting them with one-time relief checks through the “Florida’s Heroes” initiative.

The initiative is an opportunity to recognize law enforcement officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and firefighters in the state of Florida with a one-time relief payment of up to $1,000 to 49,000 law enforcement officers as an appreciation of the selfless sacrifices made throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“First responders work every single day – no matter the conditions – to keep us safe,” Governor DeSantis said. “That was perhaps never more apparent than during the last year and a half during the pandemic. I am proud to deliver these checks to show our immense gratitude for their service.”

The Governor presented one-time checks to the Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces, who worked tirelessly after the Surfside tragedy.

“The men and women joining me here today from Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces 1 and 2 are the best of the best. We thank them for their tireless response in Surfside and hope these relief checks express our gratitude for all that they have done in our state.”

Read more HERE.

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Governor DeSantis then distributed checks to first responders with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, where he was joined by Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry.

Washington, D.C.

Republican Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott voted against the $1 trillion infrastructure bill that passed the Senate the day before voting against the even more massive $3.5 trillion budget framework.

“I support investing in roads, bridges, broadband, and efforts to mitigate against sea-level rise, and I hoped there would be a bill I could vote for,” Rubio said. “But this bill was negotiated in secret, rushed through the process without meaningful opportunities to have input, and adds a net increase of $350 billion to the national debt. I can’t vote for a bill like that.

“The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that the $1 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act would add a net $350 billion to projected deficits through 2031. The package follows the Democrats’ irresponsible American Rescue Plan, which prompted Obama Administration economists to raise alarms over inflation. And it will be followed by “a massive, $3.5 trillion spending proposal through the U.S. Senate that would fundamentally transform America into a far-left fever dream.”

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Senator Marco Rubio, who is the top Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee, is calling on the director of national intelligence to investigate allegations that the federal government “unmasked” Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Rubio wrote that recent media reports that “Mr. Carlson was unmasked by a government agency” have “only fueled the perception that unmasking is being used as a political hammer or to satisfy curiosity.”

Social Media Highlights

REMEMBER: @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen.

Freedom Friday Photo Gallery August 13

August 14, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Army Corps Seawall Presentation Recap

August 4, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Republican Party of Florida: RPOF Update

August 2, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Chairman’s Message

Fighting for Florida children to breathe freely

As the Biden Administration, Democrats, the federal government, and the CDC seek once again to force schoolchildren to wear masks all day at school, Governor DeSantis and Florida leadership refuse to cave to such damaging schemes. Governor DeSantis instead convened a roundtable Monday to discuss the issue and understand how Florida can effectively stop such detrimental efforts.

The roundtable included doctors, experts, a school administrator, a concerned parent, and a high school student. During the discussion, they all shared their professional or personal insights and experiences about how mask mandates and school closures harm children.

During the past 18 months, Governor DeSantis has been determined to keep Florida open and free by ensuring that parents and students have choices, giving them the ability to make decisions that are best for their families — and not school bureaucrats, unions, or boards with other agendas.

Governor DeSantis opened set the roundtable with this opening:

“As many of you know, there’s been talk amongst the CDC and the Academy of Pediatrics to force masking on school children — I think the academy even says teachers and school children, regardless of even immune status, even if they’ve recovered from COVID or even if they have been vaccinated.

“And so, we in Florida, at this point, our school districts have proposed the mask optional. But I think our fear is that seeing some of those rumblings, that there may be an attempt from the federal level or even some of these organizations to try to push for mandatory masking of school children. And so, our view is that this should absolutely not be imposed. It should not be mandated. And I know our Legislature feels strongly about it, such that if, if you started to see a push from the feds or some of these local school districts, I know they’re interested in coming in, even in a special session, to be able to provide protections for parents and kids who just want to breathe freely and don’t want to be suffering under these masks during the school year.”

Watch the roundtable here:

https://rumble.com/vkd74v-07.26-covid-19-roundtable.html

Read the full transcript here:

https://www.temi.com/editor/t/JrHapRwkwTc5VGKDhSkiD2S99xHNF00sjm1OUz7iBUUZmp1xbMI5QS-GkZHSMCMnjGdV6t5SQpytgBTeiHIM56Ccw5s?loadFrom=DocumentDeeplink&ts=133.74

Florida

Florida has emerged victorious again over the CDC. After Florida appealed to the United States Supreme Court, the Eleventh Circuit Court reversed its earlier decision and sided with the State of Florida against the CDC’s unlawful No-Sail Orders. This means the cruise industry will be able to resume operations without having to follow the CDC’s unlawful and discriminatory rules.

“I’m glad to see the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals reverse its prior decision and free the cruise lines from unlawful CDC mandates, which effectively mothballed the industry for more than a year,” Governor DeSantis said. “The importance of this case extends beyond the cruise industry. From here on out a federal bureau will be on thin legal and constitutional ice if and when it attempts to exercise such sweeping authority that is not explicitly delineated by law.”

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Florida’s attractive business climate of low taxes and a responsible regulatory environment continues to lure great American companies to the state. Now it is the famed Disney Imagineers and 2,000 high-wage jobs coming from Los Angeles to the Orlando area.

Disney could get an estimated $570 million in tax breaks over 20 years on a project that has a capital investment up to $864 million. That means a lot of jobs in construction over the years and a lot of jobs spinning off from the new Floridians.

Lake Nona is a development about 20 miles from Disney World and the new home for Cisco, General Electric Co. and several other major companies that are also realizing the benefits of Florida’s business climate.

ICYMI: In Case You Missed It

Community Leaders Applaud State Response to Red Tide Bloom in the Tampa Bay Area

Governor DeSantis joined the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to survey the impacts of the red tide bloom affecting Southwest Florida and the Tampa Bay area.

In response to the bloom, Governor DeSantis directed all agencies to take an “all-hands-on-deck” approach to provide resources to assist in cleanup efforts. Here is what community leaders are saying about the state’s response efforts.

Dave Eggers, Chairman, Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners: “I want to thank the Governor for visiting Pinellas County and for allowing the DEP and FWC to fully commit to mitigating the red tide fish kill and for committing over $2 million in cost reimbursements to date with an openness for more as needed. Also, I want to thank the Governor for reconstituting the red tide task force in an effort to provide much more focus on policy and research.”

Ed Montanari, Chairman, St. Petersburg City Council: “I have been so impressed with the strong leadership at all levels of government on the recent red tide bloom. The Governor’s office has been great to work with, along with our Pinellas County partners, along with city leaders. This is how government is supposed to work to solve complex problems.”

Social Media Highlights

REMEMBER: @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen.

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review: 8/1

August 2, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

This week, as Democrats in Congress pushed trillions in deficit spending on “infrastructure” with no accountability to American taxpayers, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor on how the reckless tax-and-spending spree is causing rising inflation and hurting American families. Senator Scott also led several of his colleagues in a press conference on how Congress can work to get government spending under control, including passing his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act to require that two-thirds of the Senate vote to increase the debt before approving any bill with deficit spending, and his amendment to the Senate Rules to require that all committee reports include inflationary impact statements so Americans can see the true impacts of government spending. Watch his speech HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott & Colleagues: Trillion-Dollar Infrastructure Package Continues Washington’s Insane Deficit Spending

Senators Rick Scott, Mike Lee, Ron Johnson, Ted Cruz, Josh Hawley, Marsha Blackburn and Mike Braun released the following statement on the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package announced this week:

“Congress can’t keep spending trillions of dollars we don’t have. The infrastructure package announced today continues the trend in Congress of insane deficit spending. Let’s not forget, this is just the first step in the Democrats’ plan to pass their $5.5 trillion tax and spend liberal wish list. Our nation is facing a nearly $30 TRILLION federal debt crisis. There are real infrastructure needs across the country. But, with growing inflation and many families struggling to financially recover from the events of the last year, it is not wise to throw fuel on the fire that is the raging inflation crisis and labor shortage we are seeing across America.

“Needless to say, we will not support this legislation.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott on the Senate Floor: Biden’s Inflation is Hurting Families

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor on how Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree is causing rising inflation and hurting American families. Senator Scott also led several of his colleagues in a press conference today on how Congress can work to get government spending under control, including passing his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act to require that two-thirds of the Senate vote to increase the debt before approving any bill with deficit spending, and his amendment to the Senate Rules to require that all committee reports include inflationary impact statements so Americans can see the true impacts of government spending.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Biden and the Democrats say they care about Americans – but they have done absolutely nothing to help families struggling to keep up with inflation. We are nearly $30 TRILLION in debt, but Democrats have no plans to slow down their spending. Now, Biden and the Democrats want to spend another $5.5 trillion on their liberal priorities, with no consideration to how this might impact families. Their message to the American people is clear: they don’t care about inflation. They don’t care that their reckless spending is causing prices to skyrocket. If that’s the cost of getting their liberal wish list, so be it. It’s time to wake up and take action to get government spending under control – our children and grandchildren are depending on it.” See more in his speech HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott, Leader McCarthy and Colleagues Request Meeting with President Biden on Cuba

Senator Rick Scott joined House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senator Marco Rubio, Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, Carlos Gimenez, Maria Elvira Salazar and other members of Congress in a letter to President Biden requesting a meeting as soon as possible to discuss how the White House and Congress can work together to end the oppressive Cuban regime and support the Cuban people’s fight for freedom and democracy. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott at Cuba Libre Rally: Where is Joe Biden?

Senator Rick Scott joined House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy and several of his colleagues at American Conservative Union’s Cuba Libre Rally to stand with the brave freedom fighters in Cuba and demand action from the Biden administration.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The United States stands with the heroic freedom fighters across Cuba denouncing communism and saying ENOUGH to the brutal Castro Regime. The oppression must end now. President Biden’s time to review Cuba policy is over. Appeasement is over. Where is Joe Biden? Biden needs to immediately shut down the illegitimate Cuban Embassy and expel all regime thugs disguised as diplomats. Biden needs to implement all technology to facilitate the free flow of information to and from the island. He needs to show up. I’m proud to stand with the brave people of Cuba and won’t stop fighting until we see a new day of freedom for Cuba.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Biden & Harris: Communist Cuba is Major Cause of Instability in Latin America

Senator Rick Scott issued the below statement following the release of the White House’s new report, Strategy to Address the Root Causes of Migration in Central America, which completely fails to mention the influence of the illegitimate communist Cuban regime on instability in Latin America. Earlier this week, Senator Scott pressed Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on when the Biden administration will address the Cuban regime’s violence against its people and actions to create instability throughout Latin America.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Biden administration’s utter failure to address the massive border crisis it created is remarkable. First, President Biden fueled his border crisis with failed policies of open borders and amnesty – driving apprehensions at the border to record highs. Now, Vice President Harris, the so-called ‘Border Czar,’ has again missed the mark in her new report. The illegitimate communist Cuban regime is undermining democracy throughout Latin America, yet Harris’ report doesn’t mention Cuba once. As the communist Cuban regime continues to prop up the dictatorships of Maduro in Venezuela, Ortega in Nicaragua and narco-terrorists throughout the region, it spreads its tyranny, oppression and violence like wildfire. Biden and Harris need to wake up. Continuing to ignore the facts will do nothing but bring more suffering to families in Latin America and across the United States as their border crisis rages on.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott and The Heritage Foundation Release Episodes 3 and 4 in ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ Video Series

Senator Rick Scott released the third and fourth episode of Road Trip on a Budget, his video short series in partnership with The Heritage Foundation. Episode 3 highlights how Washington’s reckless spending is causing rising inflation, which means the prices of every day goods are going up for families in Florida and across the nation. Episode 4 discusses how Congress can work to rein in wasteful spending and why we must fight Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree agenda to put America back on a strong fiscal path. See previous Road Trip on a Budget episodes HERE and HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Reckless government spending has driven America’s federal debt to nearly $30 trillion. Now, thanks to the insane tax-and-spending spree of President Joe Biden and Democrats in Washington, we are seeing six straight months of raging inflation. It’s time to face reality, ditch these foolish and wasteful multi-trillion dollar plans and protect American families from rising inflation. With the debt ceiling suspension expiring this week, on July 31, we need real spending reform, like my Federal Debt Emergency Control Act, before we consider raising the debt ceiling. We cannot allow Congress to continue mortgaging the futures of our children and grandchildren.” Read more HERE.

Watch the third episode HERE or below.

Watch the fourth episode HERE or below.

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Ahead of Debt Ceiling Suspension Expiration, Sen. Rick Scott and The Heritage Foundation Release Final Episode in ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ Video Series

Senator Rick Scott released the final episode of Road Trip on a Budget, his video short series in partnership with The Heritage Foundation. In the final episode, Senator Scott discusses how, as Governor of Florida, he worked to completely turn Florida’s economy around by cutting taxes and regulations and supporting job growth. Senator Scott uses Florida’s success story to show how Washington should model Florida’s playbook to rein in wasteful spending and put America back on a strong fiscal path. See previous Road Trip on a Budget episodes HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Congress has ignored the consequences of reckless spending, like raging inflation which increases the price of living for American families, for too long. The American people deserve better. With the current debt ceiling suspension expiring this weekend, our ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ series highlights how Washington got to nearly $30 trillion in debt, but more importantly, shows that we can get this spending under control. We have to stop spending recklessly on things we don’t need and invest in the things we do. We need to make government more efficient, cut taxes, reduce regulations and focus on creating an economy where businesses can thrive and create more jobs for American families. That’s the playbook. It worked in Florida and it will work for the entire nation.” Watch the final episode HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott Leads Colleagues in Rule Change to Expose the Impacts of Reckless Government Spending on Inflation

Senators Rick Scott, Jim Risch, Thom Tillis, Roger Marshall, Marco Rubio and Joni Ernst introduced an amendment to the Senate Rules to require that all bills passed by Senate committees include inflationary impact statements so Americans can see the true impacts of government spending. Congressman Jim Banks introduced the companion bill in the House last month.

Senator Rick Scott said, “American families are worried about growing inflation. I’ve heard countless stories from families across Florida that are having to cut back on purchases because of rising costs. We know that reckless government spending causes inflation, but President Biden and the Democrats have absolutely no plans to slow down spending or get our debt under control. It’s shameful and I won’t just stand by while they try to drive our nation further into the ground with these horrible policies. Congress must get real about the true cost on every American family that this recklessness brings and start spending responsibly. That’s why I’m introducing a proposed rule change in the Senate today to require every piece of legislation passed by a committee to include a report on how it will impact inflation. The American people deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent and each bill’s impact on inflation. I look forward to my colleagues supporting this measure to increase spending transparency.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: No Excuse for Biden’s Inaction on Moving the 2022 Olympic Games out of Communist China

As the 2020 Olympics Games continue, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement reiterating his call for a meeting with President Biden to discuss the horrific human rights atrocities occurring across Communist China and the Senator’s continued calls for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to select a new site for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

Senator Scott also introduced a resolution in February calling on IOC to move the 2022 Winter Olympics out of Communist China and rebid it to another country unless Beijing immediately addresses its egregious and numerous violations of human rights.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s been five months since I asked President Biden for a meeting to discuss my call to move the 2022 Olympic Games out of Communist China. Since my request he’s been totally silent. It’s shameful. As our nation watches the 2020 Olympic Games and cheers on our great athletes competing on the world stage, we can’t ignore the fact that in just seven months, the International Olympic Committee is choosing to host the games in Communist China – which is committing a genocide against the Uyghurs. President Biden has immense power to help facilitate the relocation of the games, and is refusing to do anything. He’s ignored my calls and he’s choosing to ignore General Secretary Xi’s horrific human rights abuses. If Biden truly stands for human rights, he will take the meeting with me and immediately begin this process by offering to host the games in the United States and providing the necessary federal resources to get this done. There’s no excuse.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to CDC & Biden Administration: Vaccine Mandates Are Latest Attempt to Try to Control Americans

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following news that President Biden is mandating vaccines for federal employees and contractors.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Democrats think government knows better than you about what is good for your family. That’s wrong. I got the vaccine, and encourage everyone to get it, but that is a decision Americans get to make. It’s none of government’s business. This is about personal freedoms and we all need to stand up against this gross overreach.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Buying American Supports U.S. Jobs, Shuts Out Communist China

In recognition and support of the annual Made In America Week, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement calling on all American families and businesses to support our local and national economies by buying U.S.-made products. Last year, the U.S. Senate passed Senator Rick Scott’s bipartisan “Buy American” resolution calling on Americans to support U.S. businesses and jobs by buying products made in America, from any American manufacturer.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As we celebrate this year’s Made In America Week, I encourage all Americans to support their local communities, our great small businesses and American jobs by buying products made here in the USA. While I’m glad to see President Biden continue this tradition, if he really cared about American families and jobs, he’d abandon his job-killing agenda and out-of-control tax and spend spree that’s bankrupting our nation and leading to inflation. President Biden and all Americans must also remember that every time we buy a product ‘Made in China,’ we are putting another dollar into the pockets of Communist China, bankrolling its oppressive government, which is actively committing genocide against the Uyghurs and attacking democracy in Hong Kong and Taiwan. The best way to grow and support American jobs is to cut taxes and regulations, pay down the debt and stop doing business with Communist China.” Read more HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Tom Cotton and Colleagues Call on President Biden to Deny Entry to Iranian President, Senior Iranian Officials

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Tom Cotton, Chuck Grassley, Marsha Blackburn, Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz in a letter to President Biden calling on him to deny entry visas to Iranian President-elect Ebrahim Raisi and other senior Iranian officials to attend the UN General Assembly in September. Read more from Senator Cotton’s office HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Require Big Tech Disclosure of Government Censorship Requests

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Marco Rubio, Bill Hagerty, Cynthia Lummis and Ron Johnson in introducing the PRESERVE Online Speech Act to combat the censorship coordination between big tech companies and governments across the globe, including the Biden Administration.

Senator Rick Scott said, “We already know that Big Tech companies pick and choose which viewpoints are allowed on their platforms, and now the Biden administration expressed their willingness to help them censor the American people. That’s unacceptable. The federal government’s role should be to promote free speech of the American people, as protected by our Constitution, not limit it. This bill will hold Big Tech accountable and protect Americans’ rights.” See more From Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Jim Risch, Colleagues in Introducing UNRWA Accountability and Transparency Act

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Jim Risch and colleagues in introducing the United Nations Relief and Works Agency Accountability and Transparency Act . This legislation outlines a comprehensive approach to cease U.S. contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), a successor entity, or to the U.N. regular budget for the support of UNRWA unless the Secretary of State certifies every 180 days to Congress that UNRWA meets strict accountability and transparency criteria.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Just a few months ago, we saw Hamas terrorists attack our great ally, Israel. American taxpayer dollars should never be used to fund terrorist organizations like Hamas through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. It’s common sense. This bill works to cut off funding for this organization until significant reforms are made and we can guarantee that no taxpayer dollar will support terrorism or dangerous anti-Semitic activity.” Read more from Senator Risch’s office HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Issues Weekly Update on Biden’s Inflation Crisis

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Fox News: Rick Scott: Democrats ‘reckless’ spending causing inflation

Politico: Republicans urge Gensler to investigate Chinese companies

Newsmax: GOP Lawmakers Join Pro-Cuban Marchers at DC Rally of Support

Independent Journal Review: Sen. Rick Scott on CDC Mask Guidance: ‘Democrats Want To Use Fear To Control Us’

RealClearPolitics: GOP, Activists Press Biden to Do More on Cuban Uprising

The Hill: Republicans press White House on communications with social media platforms

The Daily Wire: ‘Alarmed And Suspicious’: Senators Tell Biden To Explain Crackdown On ‘Misinformation’

The Epoch Times: Thousands Join Cuba Freedom March Near White House

WFLA Radio: Senator Scott says Biden Administration is Ignoring Cuba

Spectrum News: Senators vote to begin debate on $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill

WFOR: Calls Continue For Cuban Embassy In DC To Be Shut Down

WFOR: ‘Libertad’: Thousands March In DC To Demand Change & Show Support For Freedom Fighters In Cuba

WPLG: Conservatives hold SOS Cuba demonstration in front of Capitol

The Floridian: Republicans Calls For Meeting With Biden To ‘Liberate The Cuban People’

Florida Daily: Florida’s Senators Want a VA Hospital Built in the Panhandle

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Sen. Rick Scott Speaks at Florida Sheriffs Association Summer Conference
Senator Rick Scott thanked Florida’s law enforcement officers for their bravery and hard work to keep families and communities safe.

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Gov. DeSantis Hosts Roundtable on Unmasking Kids in Schools

July 29, 2021/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin

Earlier this week, Governor Ron DeSantis hosted a roundtable discussion with doctors, experts, a school administrator, a concerned parent, and a high school student about efforts by the federal government to require children to wear masks in school.

During the discussion, the participants shared their insights and experiences about how mask mandates and school closures harm children. Over the past 18 months, Governor DeSantis has been very clear about the importance of keeping Florida open and free.

He has also advocated for parents and students by ensuring they have choices – giving them the ability to make decisions that are best for their families.

Governor DeSantis opened up the discussion with the following:

As many of you know, there’s been talk amongst the CDC, the Academy of Pediatrics to force masking on school children — I think the academy even says teachers and school children, regardless of even immune status, even if they’ve recovered from COVID or even if they have been vaccinated.

And so, we in Florida, at this point, our school districts have, proposed the mask optional. But I think our fear is that seeing some of those rumblings, that there be an attempt from the federal level or even some of these organizations to try to push for mandatory masking of school children. And so, our view is that this should absolutely not be imposed. It should not be mandated. And I know our legislature feels strongly about it, such that if, if you started to see a push from the feds or some of these local school districts, I know they’re interested in coming in, even in a special session to be able to provide protections for parents and kids who just want to breathe freely and don’t want to be suffering under these masks during the school year. ~~ Governor Ron DeSantis

Participants of the discussion included the following:

Jay Bhattacharya, a Professor of Medicine at Stanford University and research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NEBR). He is also a senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, with an M.D. and Ph.D. Jay’s research has been cited over 11,000 times according to Google Scholar.
Cody Meissner, MD, a renowned pediatrician and Chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease and Professor of Pediatrics at the Tufts University School of Medicine. Dr. Meissner is a national authority on the well-being of children, having served on the AAP’s Committee of Infectious Disease, and the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and HHS National Vaccine Advisory Committee (NVAC).
Mark McDonald, MD, a successful practitioner of over 14 years based out of Los Angeles who is a clinical psychiatrist with specific expertise working with children with autism, trauma, obsessive-compulsive and bipolar disorders. Dr. McDonald works closely with families, schools, pediatricians and therapists to aid in his treatments.
David Withun, Head of School of Jacksonville Classical Academy. He is also a veteran of the United States Army, he holds an MA and Ph.D. in Humanities from Faulkner University in Montgomery, Ala. Dr. Withun has taught History, Literature and Humanities and his writing has been published in several popular and academic outlets, including Classical Receptions Journal, Black Perspectives, Phylonand Forma Journal.
Anita Whitby Davis, a concerned parent and mother of two sons. Her sons attend the Governors Charter Academy in Tallahassee where she also works as a parent liaison at the school
Everett Thompson is a rising senior and lacrosse player at Maclay Highschool in Tallahassee and is very concerned about masks being required this year.

Watch the entire discussion or read the transcript HERE.

Watch Roundtable Discussion: https://rumble.com/vkd74v-07.26-covid-19-roundtable.html