Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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This week, Senator Rick Scott introduced the Data and Algorithm Transparency Agreement (DATA) Act to increase transparency by requiring big tech platforms, like Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter, to receive express consent to use Americans’ personal information. The DATA Act also provides Americans with legal recourse against these companies if they believe their right to privacy has been violated.

Big tech companies capitalize on algorithms to manipulate users, pushing them toward content the algorithm believes they would like or be interested in. These companies are also gathering massive amounts of personal data – and users have little to no control over how their data is used. That’s alarming and unacceptable, and Senator Scott’s DATA Act finally gives Americans a say in what happens with their personal information.

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

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden Administration Shows Dangerous Weakness on Communist China

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent interview on 60 Minutes. During the interview, in response to CBS’s Norah O’Donnell asking Secretary Blinken, “If [the genocide in] Xinjiang isn’t a redline with China, then what is?” he responded that the U.S. does not have “the luxury of not dealing with China.”

Senator Rick Scott said, “The United States is in a New Cold War with Communist China and it’s time that President Biden acts accordingly. Every day we see General Secretary Xi’s threats on freedom and human rights grow more intense, yet the Biden Administration remains embarrassingly and dangerously weak.

“Let’s be clear – the U.S. does not have the luxury of ignoring this threat. While Biden tries to talk tough on Communist China, there is no action to back up his words. Every American dollar spent on goods made in Communist China supports its horrific attacks on democracy in Hong Kong, aggression toward Taiwan and genocide against the Uyghurs. There is no room for compromise with a communist regime that wants most of all to dominate the world. Secretary Blinken is right that we must work with our allies to stand up to Beijing, but we must go even further and do what reality demands: completely decouple from Communist China and treat them as the enemy they are.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Introduces DATA Act to Shield Americans’ Personal Information from Big Tech Companies

Senator Rick Scott introduced the Data and Algorithm Transparency Agreement (DATA) Act to increase transparency by requiring big tech platforms, like Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter, to receive express consent to use Americans’ personal information. The DATA Act also provides Americans with legal recourse against these companies if they believe their right to privacy has been violated.

Currently, tech companies capitalize on algorithms to manipulate users, pushing them toward content the algorithm believes they would like or be interested in. These companies are also gathering massive amounts of personal data – and users have little to no control over how their data is used.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The way big tech companies gather, manipulate and sell Americans’ personal data, all without consequence, is alarming. These are the same companies that censor free speech, and pick and choose which viewpoints are allowed on their platform. We have to hold these companies accountable and protect the rights of Americans. That’s why I’m introducing the DATA Act to require greater transparency in how big tech collects and uses our personal information, and to provide a recourse for Americans if their privacy is violated. The DATA Act finally gives Americans a say in what happens with their personal information.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Biden: Tell the Truth About Taxing American Families

In response to repeated claims by President Joe Biden that he won’t raise taxes on any American making less than $400,000 per year, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement urging the president to finally come clean and tell the truth about his plans to raise taxes on American families to pay for his massive spending proposals. Contrary to his statements, Biden has already broken his promise and raised taxes on American families making under $400,000.

Senator Rick Scott said, “In the just over 100 days that Joe Biden has been president, he’s proposed more than $6 TRILLION in new spending. That’s insane, even for the far left liberals. Yet Biden refuses to address the basic question I and many Americans keep asking: ‘How do you plan to pay for all of this, Joe?’

“Joe Biden claims that he won’t raise taxes on anyone making less than $400,000. Wrong. He’s already done it. Biden raised taxes on gig workers like hardworking Americans that drive for Uber and Lyft, or work for Door Dash, in his ‘American Rescue Plan.’ I tried to repeal this tax increase on the Senate floor and Democrats blocked it.

“Joe Biden claims big tax increases on American companies and the rich will pay for his liberal wish list. Wrong again. Even if Biden got to wave his liberal wand and spend the $6 trillion, we’d still fall $2.5 TRILLION short in paying for his reckless spending plans. Because Democrats refuse to live within our means, that means there is still $2.5 TRILLION left to be paid for by taxpayers making less than $400,000 over the coming years.

“Joe Biden has never met a tax increase he didn’t like. But reckless spending and high taxes hurt the American people and destroy their opportunity at the American dream. Joe Biden needs to tell the truth: more tax increase plans are coming and they won’t spare a single American family. It’s the wrong direction for our nation, and I’ll keep fighting against these foolish tax increases every day.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Labor Inspector General: We Need Answers on Fraud and Abuse of Enhanced Federal Unemployment

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to Larry Turner, Acting Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) urging him to provide answers on what the Department is doing to prevent, detect and address fraud, waste and abuse of federal unemployment benefits, which were enhanced through the CARES Act. Senator Scott’s letter comes as leaders and businesses across the nation are fighting to get Americans back to work. Just this week, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte announced an incentive program providing bonuses to people who return to the workforce.

Last week, Senator Scott posed the same questions in a letter to DOL Secretary Marty Walsh, but has yet to receive a response. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Families on the Hook for $16,000 in Tax Hikes this Decade to Pay for Biden’s Spending

As President Joe Biden keeps promising not to raise taxes on any American making less than $400,000 per year, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement calling attention to the president’s faulty math. Earlier this week, Senator Scott pointed out that Biden’s current plans to tax American businesses and the wealthy falls $2.5 TRILLION short of paying for his entire $6 TRILLION in proposed spending. That means additional tax increases on American families are coming. According to data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), to pay for Biden’s current plan, the average taxes owed by families making less than $500,000 would need to increase by $1,600 per year for ten years – a total of $16,000 in new taxes owed over the next decade.

Contrary to his statements, Biden has already broken his promise and raised taxes on American families making under $400,000.

Senator Rick Scott said, “President Biden has already announced his misguided plans to raise taxes on the ‘rich’ and America’s job creators. But we know that those tax hikes alone won’t cut it. Even if he gets his wishes, we still fall $2.5 TRILLION short in paying for the $6 TRILLION in wasteful spending he’s proposed. There’s only one group left for Biden to raise taxes on – hardworking American families. Sure, he promised he wouldn’t do it, but he’s already gone back on his word.

“The numbers don’t lie. Making up $2.5 TRILLION in revenue to pay for Biden’s far-Left agenda is going to cost American families. On average, taxpayers reporting adjusted gross incomes of less than $500,000 will see their tax bills spike by $1,600. That’s $1,600 every year, for the next 10 years.

“Earlier this week, I asked Biden to tell the truth about his plans to raise taxes on American families. We know he won’t come clean, so I’ll tell you what I’m going to do. I’m going to fight Biden’s radical tax and spend agenda every day. With inflation rising and America speeding toward $30 TRILLION in federal debt, the last thing we need is more taxes and more reckless spending. It is time for fiscally responsible Democrats to stand with fiscally responsible Republicans on getting our debt under control and our house in order. The American people deserve accountability.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Urges Fairness for Floridians in NFIP Reform

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell and Deputy Associate Administrator of Insurance and Mitigation and Senior Executive of National Flood Insurance Program David Maurstad requesting information regarding the new National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) rating system, Risk Rating 2.0. As FEMA works to make much-needed changes to NFIP and implement its new rating system, Senator Scott is urging the agency to make improvements to ensure fairness for Florida’s families and businesses. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Applauds G7 Foreign Ministers for Standing Up to Communist China

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after G7 foreign ministers urged Communist China to refrain from ramping up “tensions” in the East and South China Seas amid concern about open conflict with Taiwan, scolded China for their human rights abuses and backed Taiwan’s “meaningful participation” in the World Health Organization and the World Health Assembly.

This action follows Senator Scott’s Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act to further reinforce the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and strengthen Taiwan’s ability to resist Communist China’s aggressive policies and military actions, and his World Health Organization (WHO) Accountability Act to hold the WHO responsible for its role in helping Communist China cover up information regarding the threat of the coronavirus and withhold American taxpayer dollars from the WHO until it accepts Taiwan as a member state.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I applaud the action by the G7 foreign ministers to stand up to Communist China’s overreach and grotesque human rights abuses, and join the U.S. in our commitment to Taiwan. Earlier this year, I introduced the WHO Accountability Act to hold them accountable and urge the acceptance of Taiwan as a member state. It’s time that the Senate passes this important legislation.

“It is no secret that General Secretary Xi is bent on world domination. The United States and the world community cannot sit back and let this happen, and that starts with supporting our peaceful and democratic partner Taiwan. We all must join together in the fight for freedom and human rights, and make clear to General Secretary Xi that his genocide and oppression won’t be tolerated.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Outlines Priorities in Letter to HUD Secretary Fudge

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia Fudge outlining his priorities for the department. In his letter, Senator Scott stresses the importance expanding the availability of affordable housing, ensuring housing projects support American jobs and working to make sure every tax dollar spent provides the highest possible return on investment. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Urges NOAA to Work With FWC on Investigation of Shark Abuse in Florida

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Benjamin Friedman, Deputy Under Secretary for Operations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), urging the agency to work directly with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to provide any federal assistance needed in its investigation into allegations of tiger shark abuse in Citrus County. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Peace Corps: Allegations of Sexual Assault on Volunteers are Shocking and Unacceptable

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Peace Corps Acting Director Carol Spahn requesting more information on the Peace Corps’ plans and actions to address serious and unacceptable allegations of sexual assault against volunteers. In his letter, Senator Scott asks how the Peace Corps will work to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its volunteers and trainees around the world. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: It’s Time to Get Americans Back to Work

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the announcement that the U.S. economy created only 266,000 jobs in April, well below the anticipated million-jobs increase, and unemployment rose for the first time since April 2020. This comes as the level of Americans receiving unemployment benefits remains elevated and businesses across the nation are still struggling to hire enough workers.

This news follows Senator Scott’s letter this week to Larry Turner, Acting Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Labor, urging him to provide answers on what the Department is doing to prevent, detect and address fraud, waste and abuse of federal unemployment benefits, which were enhanced through the CARES Act. Last week, Senator Scott asked Department of Labor Secretary Marty Walsh for information on the Department’s plans to combat fraud and abuse of enhanced federal unemployment benefits and get Americans back to work.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have supported the effort to get targeted aid to struggling families and businesses, but I have been clear that the federal government cannot be paying Americans more to stay home than go back to their jobs. I fought to include a provision in the CARES Act to ensure we weren’t creating a disincentive to return to work, but the Democrats blocked it. Now we are seeing the consequences. I’ve spoken to countless businesses in Florida and across the nation that have reopened but are struggling to find enough workers. We cannot ignore their voices.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott on Bloomberg: Democrats’ Push for “Free Everything” Means Government Will Control Your Life
Watch the full interview HERE or below

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Sen. Rick Scott in the Wall Street Journal: Inflation Is More of a Threat Than the Fed Says

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the Wall Street Journal in response to a recent op-ed, The Fed in the Sand as Inflation Threatens, about the Federal Reserve’s reluctance to address the very real threat of inflation, and refusal to release a plan to curb the effects of inflation on American families.

In the letter, Senator Rick Scott said, “…There must be a clear plan to address rising inflation. Fiscal policy makers should be transparent with American families and offer solutions to those who may be hurt by their decisions. Eighty-seven percent of Americans are already concerned about the rising costs of everyday goods. Mr. Powell needs to get real about inflation and stop brushing off this serious issue as ‘temporary’ pain.”

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

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The Epoch Times: GOP Senators Propose Curbs on Low-Rate World Bank Loans to Beijing

Townhall: Rick Scott Fact Checks Biden on Tax Increase Claim

Newsmax: Rick Scott Demands Answers on Any Abuses of Enhanced Jobless Benefits

Jewish Insider: Lawmakers reintroduce bill to enable Holocaust-era insurance claims

WFTV: EXCLUSIVE: One on one with Florida Senator Rick Scott

WFTV: VIDEO: Florida Senator Rick Scott urging fellow Republicans to demand spending cuts

WTXL: Sen. Rick Scott introduces DATA Act to shield personal info from Big Tech companies

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Outlines Priorities for Interior Department in Letter to Deb Haaland

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Takes Aim at Big Tech With the DATA Act

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants Fairness for Florida as FEMA Reforms National Flood Insurance Program

The Melo Minute May 7th, 2021

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The Melo Minute May 7th, 2021

Subscribe and Tell Your Friends!

The Melo Minute’s goal is to keep you all up-to-date on local happenings and local politics. Be sure to share our newsletter with your friends and family and have them subscribe so they can stay informed!

There’s No Place Like Home!

It is great to be back in District 80! My team and I are excited to see and update you all on our success in Tallahassee. Again, thank you for the continuous support in our efforts to #BeMoreDoMore for District 80.

On May 7th, Senator Passidomo, Representative Borrero, and I provided a legislative update during the Collier Republican Men’s Club Legislative Breakfast. We discussed what it’s like to be freshmen Representatives in the House, the lessons learned, and the monumental legislation we were honored to vote on and pass.

Next week, I will be attending the Clewiston Rotary Club on May 10th at noon and the Greater Naples Chamber’s Pints & Politics event on May 11th at 5PM.

A Question and an Answer

From one of our constituents this week:

Q: “How do you feel your experience as a business owner helped you in passing bills?”

A: “As a business owner I know what it’s like to pour your blood, sweat, and tears into a dream that can either make you or break you. I know what it’s like to be told no over and over again only to keep trying until you receive a yes. As a business owner, you have to be detail oriented and confident with your customers. My career has allowed me to cultivate an uncanny ability to problem solve and reach the best possible outcomes. There is little difference in the realm of politics. As legislators, each bill is a labor of love. We work as hard as we can to deliver the best legislation possible for our constituents back home. My experience as a business owner has had a tremendous impact on my ability to legislate. It has made me a better Representative by allowing me to understand the issues and serves as reminder as to why I chose to run for office in the first place: to keep Southwest Florida a great place to live, work, and play.”

Thank you to the reader for your question! Feel free to send in more questions to Team Melo on important topics or current events affecting our local communities, our state, and our great nation!

Seeking Signature

Just a quick recap on the bills we managed to pass that are seeking the Governor’s signature!

HB 1505 & HB 1507- Workforce Bills

· These bills streamline workforce programs and services and open more pathways for our students so they can have successful futures. To see Rep. Yarborough and I describe how the bills work click here!

HB 1231 – Domestic Violence

· This bill ensures that our domestic violence centers have better funding mechanisms and it re-establishes a standardized batterers’ intervention program.

HB 1637 – Immokalee Water and Sewage District, Collier County

· This bill provides clarity on how Immokalee’s District Board of Commissioners is constituted which will help Immokalee get more federal funding for water projects.

HB 491 – The Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board

· This bill adjusts the composition of the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board to accurately represent the public.

Vaccine Information

· Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacy locations in Florida are accepting walk-in COVID-19 vaccination appointments. Customers can still schedule appointments and do paperwork ahead of time. To schedule an appointment or get more information, you can go to the Walmart or Sam’s Club websites.

· Hendry County will be providing walk-in COVID-19 vaccination appointments throughout May. The Hendry County Health Department is located 1140 Pratt Blvd, LaBelle. Here are the dates and times: May 9th from 8:30AM-10:30AM, May 16th from 8:30AM-1PM, and May 23rd from 1PM-3:30PM.

The Song of the Week!

This week’s song is Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys are Back in Town” because we are, in fact, back in town!

Fun fact: When picking out the ten songs that would appear on their Jailbreak album, the band did not want “The Boys are Back in Town” to be included — but when management heard the song they decided that it needed to be on the album.

If you have a suggestion for the next Song of the Week, let us know!

We Appreciate Our Educators

With an 86% high school graduation rate, Florida education ranks among the best in no small part due to the hard work and dedication of our teachers. Be sure to thank a teacher for all they do and for inspiring our children to #BeMoreDoMore during this Teacher Appreciation week!

Q&A’s

I have a great team here in HD80. We are always ready to help out!

If you have a question you would like for my team and I to address within The Melo Minute feel free to send an email to:
HDIST080@myfloridahouse.gov

Representative Lauren Melo
Florida House District 80

Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up with

Congressman Byron Donalds

May 3, 2021

The House of Representatives remained in recess this past week, which means I had to opportunity to stay in Florida and meet with local leaders, statewide leaders in Tallahassee, and constituents like you, who I am honored to serve.

During the week, the CDC finally lifted mask mandates for indoor and outdoor use, which is many weeks behind the eight ball from states like Florida and Texas, which ended these mandates without consequences of dangerous increases in infection and, more importantly, hospitalization or deaths. But, unfortunately, the Democratic leadership in Washington is continuing in their show games by refusing to follow CDC guidance by continuing to engage in extreme and unnecessary COVID-19 protocols.

Also, President Biden addressed Congress to lay out his priorities and outline what he’s done over the past 100 days in office. While many thought Biden would operate moderately and in a bipartisan fashion, his first 100 days were anything but that. When you receive an A+ rating from Sen. Sanders, Reps AOC, Omar, and Raskin, you know one thing is for sure, you are noting governing moderately, and it’s not bipartisan. Biden’s speech was hard to take seriously when he’s been in office for nearly 50 years, and he has yet to accomplish any of which he says he will now do. Following Biden’s speech, Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) outlined a rebuttal to the Democrats’ calls for increased taxes, more spending, unfettered immigration, and an America last plan with a vision for the future that represents conservative principles and commonsense policies.

In response to his speech, the Left joined in unison, calling the Senator an “Uncle Tim” and other disgraceful comments directed toward Black conservatives. We can disagree on policy and politics, but the Lefts’ tactics of race batting and reverse racism are shameful.

Lastly, during the difficult times our nation faces, I came to Washington not to resist but represent the people of FL19. While partisan gridlock is the norm around Washington, D.C, I did not go there to contribute to that failed system. Last week, I was proud to partner with my colleague Chair of the Small Business Committee, Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), to protect small business contractors who do business with the federal government.

Rest assured, my team and I are devoted to working, even when Congress doesn’t. Continue reading below for critical legislative briefings, the latest news out of Washington, D.C., and events in Southwest Florida!

Meeting with Florida Secretary of State

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with Florida Secretary of State Laurel Lee to discuss Florida’s success in conducting elections with transparency and efficiency, and how we scale that success throughout the nation. Thank you for the opportunity to meet, Madam Secretary!

Secretary Lee

Legislative Updates

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our national economy, and as a member of the House Small Business Committee, it’s imperative members come together to ensure small businesses have the protection they deserve.

I’m proud to work with Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation to bring real solutions to American business owners.

Small Construction Firm Bill

I proudly joined my colleagues in calling for the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide the necessary funding to complete construction on the wall at our Southern Border.

This infrastructure is critical to the safety of all Americans, will provide countless jobs, and is a cost-efficient solution to curb illegal immigration. To read the full letter, click below:

Rep. Donalds Joins Congressional Colleagues in a Letter to U.S. DOT Secretary

In the Media

ICYMI: Earlier this week I was honored to join the great Sean Hannity on Fox News’ “Hannity” in a panel alongside former Trump Administration House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany to discuss the partisan biased CNN reporter Jim Acosta. Click below to watch the fiery interview below:

Byron Donalds and Kayleigh McEnany join “Hannity”

I joined Lara Trump for a panel on Fox News’ “Justice with Jeanine” hosted by Judge Jeanine Pirro to “woke” liberals demonizing Senator Tim Scott with racial slurs, the hypocrisy surrounding the Democrats message of “unity”, and the importance of the 2022 elections. Click below to watch the full interview:

Rep. Byron Donalds and Lara Trump join ‘Justice with Jeanine’

I joined Fox News’ John Roberts “America Reports” to discuss the ignorant and racist comments by Hollywood elites like Joy Behar regarding Senator Tim Scott and his Republican Response to President Biden’s first address to a joint congress. Watch the interview by clicking below!

Byron Donalds Joins “America Reports” with John Roberts

I was happy to join the “Chris Salcedo Show” on Newsmax to discuss the intolerance and ignorance I’ve experienced from “woke” liberals and to shine a light on the racist history of President Joe Biden. Watch the exchange by clicking the link below:

Byron Donalds Tells Newsmax About Intolerance from the Left

Congressional Art Competition

Reminder to all high school artists throughout Southwest Florida, Wednesday, May 5th is the deadline to submit your artwork for the Congressional Art Competition. For details on how to enter, please visit my website: donalds.house.gov/forms/submitartwork/

art competition

FreedomWorks Member of the Month

I was honored to be named the April 2021 ‘Member of the Month’ by FreedomWorks- an organization focused on the grassroots efforts of preserving and education the foundational principles of individual liberty.

I came to Congress to protect and defend the Constitution, above all else. I’m looking forward to working alongside FreedomWorks to promote policies that enhance economic freedom, limit the size and scope of the federal government, and fight unnecessary tax increases. Click below to read the profile in its entirety:

FreedomWorks April 2021 Member of the Month: Rep. Byron Donalds

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 Signature

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress

From the desk of Chairman Joe Gruters

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Chairman’s Message

Florida continues to lead on school choice for parents and students

The Legislature has passed bills maximizing parental choice by expanding eligibility and streamlining school choice scholarship programs for students with unique abilities and students from lower income families. The Senate passed House Bill 7045, School Choice, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr.

“I’m pleased to see the Senate stand with Florida parents who overwhelmingly support expanding eligibility for these popular school choice programs. We know that parents are their children’s first and best educators, a fact that has certainly been highlighted over the last year,” Senate President Wilton Simpson said. “We want school choice to be an option for every family. This important legislation further streamlines our existing school choice scholarships, and expands eligibility for lower income families, families of students with unique abilities, adopted children, and children whose parents serve in our military.”

The legislation expands school choice to allow a family of four earning less than $100,000 to receive full funding for K-12 education costs at a school of their choice under an expansion of the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program. Eligibility is expanded to students who are not enrolled in a public school, students of parents serving in the military, and students who are in foster care or adopted.

Read much more here: https://www.flsenate.gov/Media/PressReleases/Show/3963

The Wall Street Journal ran a terrific editorial on Florida’s school choice bill, the final line of which is: Florida is a haven for overtaxed northerners, but it’s also an education refuge for low- and middle-income families.

Read more here:
https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?DocumentType=Press%20Release&FileName=764

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Holding Big Tech accountable. Both chambers of the Florida Legislature have now approved legislation barring social media companies from deplatforming political candidates. It’s a classic free speech, anti-censorship, equal access and protection bill for all Floridians.

Republicans and free-speech advocates — and just a lot of Americans — were outraged after the sitting President of the United States, President Donald Trump, was suspended and then banned from Facebook and Twitter in January on the spurious accusation that his content had the potential to incite violence. It did not, but plenty of content that the social media platforms do allow does have the potential, and expectation, to incite violence — such as Antifa organizing on their platforms.

After the appalling, partisan ban of the President,the New York Post, Parler, and Republican candidates such as Laura Loomer, Governor Ron DeSantis called for laws stopping the social media giants from doing this again. After all, for better or worse, they are the public square now and access to them is required for free speech to flourish. Under the measure, social media giants would be forbidden to suspend the accounts of candidates for more than 60 days before an election has been resolved.

Read more here: https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2021/04/28/florida-house-oks-bills-banning-social-media-deplatforming–voting-drop-boxes-

Legislation

The Florida House and Senate have agreed to a budget that is balanced, while making record investments in flood mitigation, education and leaving $6 billion in budget reserves. The 2021 General Appropriations Act prepares Florida today for a better tomorrow. In reconciling the House and Senate budgets, both sides praised the other for their spirit of cooperation throughout the process.

“Working together with our partners in the Senate, we were able to craft a budget that funds immediate needs and also long-term priorities for the future,” House Speaker Chris Sprowls said. “In the greenest budget in Florida’s history, we respond to the needs of our state in areas like flooding mitigation, state park maintenance and water quality. We provide unprecedented levels of budget reserves, make record investments in higher-education funding, fund an overhaul of our workforce system and extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from two months to a full year.”

House Appropriations Committee Chair Trumbull said: “We make smart, good-government investments into programs that provide lasting benefits for generations. From unprecedented infrastructure funding to record investments into beach renourishment to bonuses for teachers and front-line workers, we make the right decisions for Florida’s future.”

The $101.5 billion budget includes $6.9 billion in federal funding from Medicaid increases and federal education stimulus funds. If those funds were not included, the budget would be $94.6 billion, slightly above the $92.3 billion budget approved last year.

Read more here: https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?DocumentType=Press%20Release&FileName=763

Florida Update

Governor DeSantis announced a historic gaming compact between the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The agreement will generate a minimum of $2.5 billion in new state revenue over the next five years, and an estimated $6 billion through 2030.

“This historic compact expands economic opportunity, tourism, and recreation, and bolsters the fiscal success of our state in one fell swoop for the benefit of all Floridians and Seminoles alike,” Governor DeSantis said. “Our agreement establishes the framework to generate billions in new revenue and untold waves of positive economic impact.”

Larger and more expansive than any other gaming compact in U.S. history, the agreement increases the revenue to the State of Florida from the Seminole Tribe from no revenue to over $6 billion over the next decade, with a guaranteed minimum of $2.5 billion during the first five years. Most notably, the compact modernizes the gaming industry through the authorization of sports betting in Florida through the Tribe. The agreement also provides protections for pari-mutuel operations and the opportunity to participate in sports betting offered by the Tribe.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/04/23/governor-ron-desantis-strikes-historic-gaming-compact-with-seminole-tribe-of-florida/

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Governor DeSantis announced significant progress in the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir Project in a press conference where he was joined by Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Noah Valenstein and the South Florida Water Management District to announce significant progress on the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir Project.

The SFWMD Governing Board unanimously approved an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that keeps the Corps on track to begin federal construction on the reservoir component this year. In April 2020, Governor DeSantis announced that the South Florida Water Management District began construction on the State of Florida’s component of the project, the stormwater treatment area, 12 months ahead of schedule.

“Today marks a critical milestone for Everglades restoration and achieving our state’s long-term environmental goals,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/04/22/governor-ron-desantis-announces-major-milestone-to-advance-eaa-reservoir-project/

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Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis needled Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer with a letter this week in response to ongoing revelations that she and a top staffer visited Florida recently after telling Michigan residents they should not travel — particularly to Florida. CFO Patronis provided the governor and her staff with tourism materials from the state’s “Visit Florida” marketing board to “help plan” their next trip down.

“Now that you and your COO have personally experienced what the Sunshine State has to offer, I encourage you to share your experiences publicly. More importantly, however, don’t be a stranger!”

Read more here: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/desantis-cabinet-member-trolls-michigans-whitmer-over-travel-mess-by-sending-tourism-pamphlets

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.

PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP

Congressman Donalds Joins GOP House Oversight Committee Members in John Kerry Probe

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Congressman Donalds Joins GOP House Oversight Committee Members in John Kerry Probe

WASHINGTON—Yesterday, Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) joined House Committee on Oversight and Reform Chairman James Comer (R-KY) and fellow GOP committee members in calling on the White House to provide documentation regarding John Kerry’s security clearance.

“John Kerry is a threat to America’s national security. He has a long and damning history of putting his business and personal dealings before the business of the American people, and just as concerning, with the Iranians, who are outspoken enemies of the United States.

“The Biden Administration must restore the American public’s faith in our national security by providing transparency regarding how someone like John Kerry can obtain a security clearance and continue representing America’s national security interest. Since the media and Congressional Democrats refuse to conduct necessary oversight on Kerry’s dealings with the Iranian regime, my GOP colleagues and I will. Every day we waste is another day John Kerry is compromising our national security.”

Republicans request documents on Kerry’s security clearance process

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Byron Donalds Press release

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Donalds and Velázquez Introduce Bill to Protect Small Construction Firms

WASHINGTON—Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) Member of the House Small Business Committee and House Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) introduced legislation to preserve payment protections for small construction firms working as subcontractors on federal projects. The legislation would exclude the threshold for construction contracts that must be bonded under the Miller Act from periodic inflation adjustments, ensuring that more projects are covered under federal bonding requirements.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and as a member of the House Committee on Small Business, it is imperative members come together to ensure small businesses have the protection they deserve,” said Rep. Byron Donalds. “I am proud to work with Chairwoman Velázquez on this common-sense, bipartisan solution to a problem impacting many small subcontractors who do business with the federal government.”

“The U.S. government is the largest purchaser of goods and services on the planet, and it’s vital to the economy that small firms are included in these contracting opportunities,” said Chairwoman Velázquez. “Under current law, the Miller Act threshold increases every five years, reducing protections for small subcontractors and potentially leaving them in a precarious position if the prime contractor fails to pay them. This bill will allow small subcontractors to participate in federal projects without taking on unsustainable risk.”

Due to their size, many small firms often find that the most practicable avenue for them to participate in the federal procurement arena is by leveraging subcontracting opportunities. These subcontractors are guaranteed payment through the issuance of surety bonds by their prime contractors. If a prime contractor defaults, the surety bond ensures the subcontractor is compensated for their work on the project.

Surety bonds under the Miller Act take two forms: payment and performance bonds. Thus, in addition to subcontractors, surety bonds protect taxpayers. When the dollar threshold for issuing surety bonds is raised to account for inflation, taxpayers also lose protections against nonperformance. Velázquez’s bill would exempt surety bond requirements from inflation adjustments, allowing more small businesses and taxpayers to have protection through bonds.

Click here, for a full version of the bill.

Representative Lauren Melo – The Melo Minute

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The Melo Minute

April 23rd, 2021 — Sine Die and Sayonara!

Thank You!

I want to open this edition of The Melo Minute with a thank you to everyone who has made this session such a boon for our community and our State.

To our readers, The Melo Minute is made for you. You are what allows for not only the success of this letter, but for the success of my first year as a Representative. I thank you for being active citizens diligently working to keep yourselves informed. I thank you for expressing your opinions on Legislative matters to me so that I can best represent you. I thank you for working with me to keep our District great!

To the businesses, government offices, legislative peers, and organizations that have guided my team throughout this process, I thank you. As we worked to present Legislation that was best for business and the functioning of our State, you all contributed valuable resources and knowledge to cultivate the best Legislative outcomes for the residents of District 80 and beyond.

It was an honor to serve as your freshman Representative. My team and I will continue to listen to you, work with you, and legislate for you as we move forward.

Now, to highlight all the bills that we worked together to have passed now that the 2021 Legislative Session has officially ended! Besides the upcoming Special Session on the week of May 17th, but that’s besides the point!

Seeking Signature

We were able to accomplish an incredible amount this year despite all of the struggles and fallout from the pandemic. Here are all of the fantastic bills that have been passed by the House and Senate that are seeking the Governor’s signature!

HB 1505 & HB 1507- Workforce Bills

· These bills streamline workforce programs and services and open more pathways for our students so they can have successful futures. To see Rep. Yarborough and I describe how the bills work click here!

HB 1231 – Domestic Violence

· This bill ensures that our domestic violence centers have better funding mechanisms and it re-establishes a standardized batterers’ intervention program.

HB 1637 – Immokalee Water and Sewage District, Collier County

· This bill provides clarity on how Immokalee’s District Board of Commissioners is constituted which will help Immokalee get more federal funding for water projects.

HB 491 – The Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board

· This bill adjusts the composition of the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board to accurately represent the public.
Appropriations Bills

HB 3761 – Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center Expansion

· $250,000 from the Department of Elder Affairs to fully fund the expansion of the Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center.

HB 3777 – Hendry County Port LaBelle Utility System Gravity Sewer Repairs

· $200,000 in non-recurring funds to repair LaBelle’s sewers and utilities.

HB 3779 – Hendry County Port LaBelle Utility System Water Treatment Plant Expansion

· $600,000 to assist in the expansion of LaBelle’s Water Treatment Plant.

HB 3781 – C-21 Bridge Canal Crossing – City of Clewiston

· $3.6M for the creation of a bridge in Clewiston that will be bolster the local economy.

HB 3775 – Hendry County Connecting Airglades Airport & Clewiston Utilities

· $1M to construct a force main between the Airglades Airport and the City of Clewiston’s existing wastewater treatment plant.

SB 2500 – Appropriations

· Within the Senate’s appropriations budget $25M is being allocated to the National Guard for the creation of a 2/54th Security Forces Assistance Brigade Readiness Center in Immokalee. This readiness center will be of great benefit to our district and Southwest Florida.

What We’re Reading

House Backs Social-Media Crackdown

News Service of Florida

The Florida House, and Chris Sprowls, Are Having a Very Good Week

Peter Schorsch

Introducing a New Segment of The Melo Minute: The Song of the Week!

This week’s song, and our first song of the week, is Europe’s “The Final Countdown” — because it’s the end of Session, get it?

Fun fact: This song was once listed #1 on VH1’s “40 Most Awesomely Bad Metal Songs”.

If you’ve got a suggestion for the next Song of the Week, let us know!

Check Out My Social Media!

Above is a photo of me with Michael Wickersheim and the team at DCF who helped me pass HB 1231 through the Florida House and the Senate!

Follow me on my social media to keep up to date with all of the latest happenings during session!

Q&A’s

I have a great team here in HD80. We are always ready to help out!

If you have a question you would like for my team and I to address within The Melo Minute feel free to send an email to:
HDIST080@myfloridahouse.gov

Representative Lauren Melo
Florida House District 80

Bob Rommel – End of 2021 Legislative Session – April 30, 2021

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End of 2021 Legislative Session – April 30, 2021
Personal Message from Bob

This legislative session has flown by! A lot of work was accomplished, but there is always more to do. Below is information about the 2021-2022 Budget, Appropriations allocated specifically to Collier Collier, the Top 6 Bills this session and my Top 3 Bills that passed this Session.

It takes a team to have a successful Legislative Session, especially under the COVID-19 restrictions imposed upon all of us. I want to thank my Legislative Aide, Kim Timm, for her hard work to get bills and amendments filed timely and for keeping me on schedule while I’m in Tallahassee. Thanks also to Priscilla Grannis, District 106 Sr. Secretary, for keeping the home fires burning during this Legislative Session.

Finally, I want to thank all of my constituents for entrusting me with the privilege of serving you. I look forward working for and with you again for the next Legislative Session.

Representative Bob Rommel
District 106

Chairman’s message

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Chairman’s Message

Florida continues to lead on school choice for parents and students

The Legislature has passed bills maximizing parental choice by expanding eligibility and streamlining school choice scholarship programs for students with unique abilities and students from lower income families. The Senate passed House Bill 7045, School Choice, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr.

“I’m pleased to see the Senate stand with Florida parents who overwhelmingly support expanding eligibility for these popular school choice programs. We know that parents are their children’s first and best educators, a fact that has certainly been highlighted over the last year,” Senate President Wilton Simpson said. “We want school choice to be an option for every family. This important legislation further streamlines our existing school choice scholarships, and expands eligibility for lower income families, families of students with unique abilities, adopted children, and children whose parents serve in our military.”

The legislation expands school choice to allow a family of four earning less than $100,000 to receive full funding for K-12 education costs at a school of their choice under an expansion of the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program. Eligibility is expanded to students who are not enrolled in a public school, students of parents serving in the military, and students who are in foster care or adopted.

Read much more here: https://www.flsenate.gov/Media/PressReleases/Show/3963

The Wall Street Journal ran a terrific editorial on Florida’s school choice bill, the final line of which is: Florida is a haven for overtaxed northerners, but it’s also an education refuge for low- and middle-income families.

Read more here:
https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?DocumentType=Press%20Release&FileName=764

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Holding Big Tech accountable. Both chambers of the Florida Legislature have now approved legislation barring social media companies from deplatforming political candidates. It’s a classic free speech, anti-censorship, equal access and protection bill for all Floridians.

Republicans and free-speech advocates — and just a lot of Americans — were outraged after the sitting President of the United States, President Donald Trump, was suspended and then banned from Facebook and Twitter in January on the spurious accusation that his content had the potential to incite violence. It did not, but plenty of content that the social media platforms do allow does have the potential, and expectation, to incite violence — such as Antifa organizing on their platforms.

After the appalling, partisan ban of the President,the New York Post, Parler, and Republican candidates such as Laura Loomer, Governor Ron DeSantis called for laws stopping the social media giants from doing this again. After all, for better or worse, they are the public square now and access to them is required for free speech to flourish. Under the measure, social media giants would be forbidden to suspend the accounts of candidates for more than 60 days before an election has been resolved.

Read more here: https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2021/04/28/florida-house-oks-bills-banning-social-media-deplatforming–voting-drop-boxes-

Legislation

The Florida House and Senate have agreed to a budget that is balanced, while making record investments in flood mitigation, education and leaving $6 billion in budget reserves. The 2021 General Appropriations Act prepares Florida today for a better tomorrow. In reconciling the House and Senate budgets, both sides praised the other for their spirit of cooperation throughout the process.

“Working together with our partners in the Senate, we were able to craft a budget that funds immediate needs and also long-term priorities for the future,” House Speaker Chris Sprowls said. “In the greenest budget in Florida’s history, we respond to the needs of our state in areas like flooding mitigation, state park maintenance and water quality. We provide unprecedented levels of budget reserves, make record investments in higher-education funding, fund an overhaul of our workforce system and extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from two months to a full year.”

House Appropriations Committee Chair Trumbull said: “We make smart, good-government investments into programs that provide lasting benefits for generations. From unprecedented infrastructure funding to record investments into beach renourishment to bonuses for teachers and front-line workers, we make the right decisions for Florida’s future.”

The $101.5 billion budget includes $6.9 billion in federal funding from Medicaid increases and federal education stimulus funds. If those funds were not included, the budget would be $94.6 billion, slightly above the $92.3 billion budget approved last year.

Read more here: https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?DocumentType=Press%20Release&FileName=763

Florida Update

Governor DeSantis announced a historic gaming compact between the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The agreement will generate a minimum of $2.5 billion in new state revenue over the next five years, and an estimated $6 billion through 2030.

“This historic compact expands economic opportunity, tourism, and recreation, and bolsters the fiscal success of our state in one fell swoop for the benefit of all Floridians and Seminoles alike,” Governor DeSantis said. “Our agreement establishes the framework to generate billions in new revenue and untold waves of positive economic impact.”

Larger and more expansive than any other gaming compact in U.S. history, the agreement increases the revenue to the State of Florida from the Seminole Tribe from no revenue to over $6 billion over the next decade, with a guaranteed minimum of $2.5 billion during the first five years. Most notably, the compact modernizes the gaming industry through the authorization of sports betting in Florida through the Tribe. The agreement also provides protections for pari-mutuel operations and the opportunity to participate in sports betting offered by the Tribe.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/04/23/governor-ron-desantis-strikes-historic-gaming-compact-with-seminole-tribe-of-florida/

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Governor DeSantis announced significant progress in the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir Project in a press conference where he was joined by Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Noah Valenstein and the South Florida Water Management District to announce significant progress on the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir Project.

The SFWMD Governing Board unanimously approved an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that keeps the Corps on track to begin federal construction on the reservoir component this year. In April 2020, Governor DeSantis announced that the South Florida Water Management District began construction on the State of Florida’s component of the project, the stormwater treatment area, 12 months ahead of schedule.

“Today marks a critical milestone for Everglades restoration and achieving our state’s long-term environmental goals,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/04/22/governor-ron-desantis-announces-major-milestone-to-advance-eaa-reservoir-project/

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Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis needled Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer with a letter this week in response to ongoing revelations that she and a top staffer visited Florida recently after telling Michigan residents they should not travel — particularly to Florida. CFO Patronis provided the governor and her staff with tourism materials from the state’s “Visit Florida” marketing board to “help plan” their next trip down.

“Now that you and your COO have personally experienced what the Sunshine State has to offer, I encourage you to share your experiences publicly. More importantly, however, don’t be a stranger!”

Read more here: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/desantis-cabinet-member-trolls-michigans-whitmer-over-travel-mess-by-sending-tourism-pamphlets

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

Weekly Wrap-up – Bryon Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up with
Congressman Byron Donalds
April 26, 2021

Last week, Congress was in Session again. Unfortunately, House Democrats continued down the path of flooding the House Floor with bills that skip committee hearings and forcing hyper-partisan bills to a party-line vote.

Democrats this past week in the House of Representatives focused on passing unconstitutional legislation making Washington, D.C., the 51st state. Don’t be fooled- this is a desperate attempt for power. D.C. statehood isn’t anything more than a progressive scam to push forth policies like packing the U.S. Supreme Court, the Green New Deal, anti-gun legislation, and the federal takeover of our elections through H.R. 1. We also witnessed the verdict in the Derek Chauvin murder trial. Despite inappropriate and divisive rhetoric by Rep. Maxine Waters and even the President, a jury of Mr. Chauvin’s peers convicted him on all three counts. His callous disregard for human life by no means represents the actions of the majority of police officers in America, and its important bad actors face the appropriate ramifications when they fall short of their commitment.

This past week, I also attended committee hearings to discuss COVID-19 impacts on small businesses and how we, as representatives, can provide aid and relief. Florida’s handling of COVID-19 has proven to benefit small business owners by cutting bureaucratic red tape, making access to vaccines easier, not enforcing lockdowns, and getting the government out of the way. I’m proud of the work we’ve done thus far, but we still have a lot of work left to do!

Please continue reading below for #FL19 updates, legislative events on Capitol Hill, and what’s happening in my Congressional office!

Statement on the Verdict on the Trial of
Derek Chauvin

The death of George Floyd was a tragedy that caused his family, friends, and our entire nation to grieve and look at ways to reform policing. Now that his family has seen justice, I pray that they find peace during this difficult time. I pray that our nation begins to heal our divides and move forward as one people.

Read my full statement below regarding the verdict on the trial of Derek Chauvin:

Derek Chauvin Statement

Op-Ed: “We Are Getting Played at Our Southern Border”

As a member of ⁦the House Committee on Oversight & Reform, I had the opportunity of traveling to El Paso, & Santa Theresa to tour the humanitarian & political crisis the administration created at our border.

Since day one, the Biden Admin has laid out the welcome mat for illegal immigration. While Americans get played, children’s lives are in danger, and the drug cartels get richer.

Click the link below to read my Op-Ed about the #BidenBorderCrisis, exclusively on Breitbart:

Rep. Byron Donalds: We Are Getting Played at Our Southern Border

Collier County Business of the Month

My Legal Edge has been named the Collier County Business of the Month. Congratulations on all of your hard work, success, and this esteemed recognition! Thriving businesses and booming economies are just another reason to love Southwest Florida. #FL19

In the Media

Last week, I was happy to talk with Sean Hannity on his program on the Fox News Channel to discuss how Democrats in DC are taking a page out of Saul Alinksy’s “Rules for Radicals”: pick a target and polarize it. This push isn’t about reforming policing in America- this is about using the anger & outrage of the American people to pass their liberal agenda. Watch my full interview below:

I joined John Roberts and Sandra Smith on Fox News’ “America Reports” last week to discuss how President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the DNC are playing off of the anger, emotion, and outrage of the American people regarding the tragedy of George Floyd to pass their radically progressive agenda. Click the link below to watch my full interview:

Rep. Donalds Slams Democrats For Using Race to Pass Agenda

ICYMI: I was featured in a panel alongside former congressional candidate Kim Klacik on Fox News’ “Justice with Judge Jeanine” over the weekend to discuss policing in America, Democrats push to Defund the Police, and more. Watch the full interview below:

Florida Congressman Byron Donalds Reacts to ‘Defund the Police’

Congressional Art Competition

Calling all #FL19 high school artists: the deadline to submit your artwork for this year’s Congressional Art Competition is May 5th.

For entry and submission details, please visit: donalds.house.gov/forms/submitartwork/

art competition

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 Signature
Byron Donalds
Member of Congress