Senator Scott also continued his work on behalf of Florida families by introducing his Set Testing and Objectives Plan (STOP) COVID-19 Act which sets distribution reporting and transparency standards to keep Americans informed and healthy and his World Health Organization (WHO) Accountability Act to hold the WHO accountable and withhold American taxpayer dollars from the organization until significant reforms are made.

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

In recognition of the third anniversary of the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018 in Parkland, Florida, Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio introduced a resolution honoring the 17 innocent lives lost that day, which was unanimously adopted by the Senate.

Senator Scott also spoke on the Senate floor this week on this resolution and to honor the lives of the victims. Watch his speech HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden Must Stand Up for Human Rights; Reject Rejoining UN Human Rights Council

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after the Biden Administration announced it will reengage with the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Time and time again, the UN Human Rights Council has contradicted its own mission and refused to promote and protect human rights around the world. They have proven to be nothing more than a UN sanctioned club that spends most of its time targeting our ally, Israel. The council has also refused to hold the Cuban regime accountable, given Nicolas Maduro, a murderous dictator who is committing genocide against his people, a seat at the table and ignored Communist China’s campaign of genocide against the Uyghurs. As I’ve said before, their actions don’t match their rhetoric, and re-engaging with them in any capacity would be a tragic mistake. The Biden Administration must make it absolutely clear that the United States stands for human rights and reject engaging with an organization that turns a blind eye to genocide.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden debe defender los derechos humanos; Rechazar la reincorporación al Consejo de Derechos Humanos de la ONU

El Senador Rick Scott hizo la siguiente declaración luego de la decisión de la Administración Biden de reincorporarse al Consejo de Derechos Humanos de las Naciones Unidas (ONU).

El Senador Rick Scott dijo: “Una y otra vez, el Consejo de Derechos Humanos de la ONU se ha contradicho ante su misión y se ha negado a promover y proteger los derechos humanos alrededor del mundo. Han demostrado que no son nada más que un club autorizado por la ONU para perseguir y promover una campaña en contra de nuestro aliado, Israel. El Consejo también se ha negado a responsabilizar al régimen cubano, le ha dado a Nicolás Maduro, un dictador asesino que está cometiendo genocidio contra su pueblo, un lugar en la mesa y ha ignorado la campaña de genocidio de la China comunista contra los uigures. Como he dicho antes, sus acciones no siguen su retórica y reincorporarse al Consejo en cualquier capacidad sería un error trágico. La Administración Biden debe dejar absolutamente claro que los Estados Unidos defienden los derechos humanos y rechazar regresar a una organización que ignora el genocidio”. Lea más AQUÍ.

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 Sen. Rick Scott: $15 Minimum Wage Will Kill 1.4 Million Jobs and Devastate U.S. Economy

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement after the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released a report on the disastrous economic impacts of the Biden Administration’s proposal to increase the federal minimum wage to $15.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I spent my life in business, and I know what it’s like to have to make payroll and make the tough choices to succeed. President Biden continues to push his job-killing agenda, including a $15 minimum wage, despite all evidence showing that it will devastate our economy and small businesses. Just last week, Senate Democrats overwhelmingly joined Republicans in voting against raising the national minimum wage to $15 during the pandemic. We know that enacting a $15 minimum wage now would be catastrophic for small businesses and the jobs they provide families and now we have data showing its impacts would stretch far beyond our battle against COVID-19. A new report from the CBO confirms that raising the minimum wage to $15 will increase the national debt by $70 billion and eliminate 1.4 million jobs. That is unacceptable. Instead of making every attempt to kill the American Dream and destroy small businesses, Democrats should work on creating a strong economy so every family has the opportunity to succeed.” Read more HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott and Josh Hawley Introduce WHO Accountability Act to Address Inaction and Lies About the Coronavirus Pandemic

Senators Rick Scott and Josh Hawley introduced the 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. The WHO Accountability Act withholds U.S. taxpayer dollars from the WHO until the organization replaces its leadership, as of January 1, 2020, and accepts Taiwan as a member state. It also limits U.S. funding to the same or less than the top contributor nation to the WHO each year.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The mission of the WHO is to get public health information to the world so every country can make the best decisions to keep their citizens safe. The WHO not only failed its mission, but it failed the world when it comes to the coronavirus. They served as a puppet for the Chinese Communist Party – parroting misinformation and helping Communist China cover up a global pandemic. Last February, I called on the WHO to do its own in-depth analysis on the extent and origins of the coronavirus. It took them nearly a year to take action and we still have no answer. They have even dropped their investigation into whether COVID-19 leaked from Wuhan lab. Their inaction has grave consequences.

“The WHO also needs to answer for its refusal to include Taiwan in its membership, meetings, and information, especially in the face of the coronavirus. They are complicit in Communist China’s effort to isolate Taiwan. There is no reason U.S. taxpayers should be spending hundreds of millions a year, more than any other country, to fund the WHO without significant reform. I’m proud to introduce the WHO Accountability Act to withhold American taxpayer dollars from the WHO until they start actually caring about public health, stop acting like a puppet for the Communist China and allow Taiwan as a member.” Read more HERE.

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Senator Rick Scott Joins Senator Marco Rubio and Colleagues in Resolution in Support of Interim President Guaidó and Condemning Venezuela’s Fraudulent Legislative Elections

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marco Rubio and colleagues to introduce a resolution condemning last year’s fraudulent legislative elections by the Maduro regime. The resolution also denounces the lack of free, fair, and transparent elections in Venezuela, as well as the continued erosion of the nation’s democracy and the rule of law.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I am proud to join my colleagues today to send a clear message to Nicolas Maduro: the United States will never stop fighting for the people of Venezuela. The appearance of democracy is not democracy and the world knows that Venezuela’s election, coordinated by the Maduro regime, is nothing more than a sham. Maduro is a ruthless dictator that murders and oppresses his own people. The United States and freedom-loving countries around the world must continue their unwavering support of interim President Juan Guaidó and denounce Maduro’s murderous regime. As Florida’s U.S. Senator, I’ve made fighting for freedom in Latin America and across the globe a top priority and I will not stop until the people of Venezuela see a new day of democracy.” Read more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Reintroduces STOP COVID-19 Act 

Senator Rick Scott reintroduced the Set Testing and Objectives Plan (STOP) COVID-19 Act to set vaccine distribution reporting and transparency standards for states and create a program for cities and counties to increase testing, contact tracing and transparency efforts in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Senator Rick Scott said, “We’ve made incredible progress on developing the vaccine and getting doses to states, but there is still a lot more work to do when it comes to ending the virus. All levels of government must work together to quickly distribute the vaccine so every American who wants one can easily get one. We also need to implement transparent, efficient and measurable ways to contain the spread. The STOP COVID-19 Act sets vaccine distribution reporting and transparency standards for states and creates a program for cities and counties, using metrics-based incentives, to ensure communities are doing everything possible to keep residents safe. We must keep working to end the coronavirus and give Americans as much information as possible, so we can get back to our new normal.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Democrats Ignore the Facts in Continued Push for Wasteful Blue State Bailouts

Senator Rick Scott released a statement ahead of the House Oversight and Reform Committee’s meeting on Friday, February 12, during which members will consider allocating $350 billion in taxpayer funding to bail out wasteful, liberal states like New York, California and Illinois for their decades of financial mismanagement. The meeting comes as the State of Illinois announced that it was able to pay down more than $700 million in debt and reduce its overall budget shortfall by $2.5 billion thanks to a stronger economic performance than expected in 2020.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Democrats just don’t know when to stop. First, California announced its 2020 revenues were so good that the state was putting more than $22 billion away in reserves. Now, Illinois is seeing similar good fortunes and has reduced its overall budget shortfall by $2.5 billion. But liberals in Washington can’t be bothered by the facts. House and Senate Democrats insist on moving forward with their radical plan to award wasteful bailouts for failed politicians in states like New York and California. Congress has already allocated more than $4.5 trillion to address this crisis, including roughly $400 billion for state and local governments. As more and more data makes clear, this bailout is nothing more than a liberal payback to governors who helped elect them. Democrats need to return to reality, remember their obligation to the American taxpayer, and stop using American tax dollars to backfill their friends’ mismanaged pensions and state budgets.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden’s Reversal on Communist China Crackdown is Short-Sighted and Dangerous

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after a number of measures by the Biden Administration signal a much weaker approach when it comes to Communist China, including:

• Rolling back the plan for the sale of TikTok’s American operations;
• Tossing a proposed rule that would have required U.S. universities and K-12 schools with foreign exchange programs to disclose any financial ties or other connections to Chinese state-run Confucius Institutes;
• Suspending an order blocking Chinese components in the U.S. power grid; and
• Refusing to firmly commit to keep Huawei on the Department of Commerce’s “no-entity” list – an essential move for national security.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It is no secret that Communist China’s plan is world domination. The easier we go on Communist China, the quicker General Secretary Xi will swoop in and take advantage. President Biden’s moves to roll back actions taken under President Trump to hold Communist China accountable are reckless and show just how far he will go to appease the authoritarian regime. Failing to stand up to General Secretary Xi has absolutely devastating consequences for our national security and for that of our allies. We don’t need nice phone calls or another task force to study what’s going on with Communist China. We need to employ a proactive, aggressive and strategic approach to combat the Chinese threat – and that includes banning TikTok, cutting ties with Confucius Institutes at universities and schools, keeping Communist China out of our power grid, ending threats against our peaceful ally, Taiwan, keeping Huawei on the blacklist, and setting strong policy that shows the world where we stand.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Colleagues: Inflation from Unsustainable Federal Debt Hurts American Families

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to his colleagues in Congress urging them, once again, to join him in addressing the nation’s massive and unsustainable debt. For too long, Congress has spent with reckless disregard for the consequences of a growing national debt and its effects on inflation, which directly impacts American families and businesses. Senator Scott’s letter comes as the CBO reported that the federal debt would reach 107 percent of GDP in 2031, the highest level in U.S. history. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden’s Failure to Call Israeli PM Netanyahu is Unacceptable

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following disturbing reports that President Biden has yet to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Senator Rick Scott said, “President Biden’s failure to call Prime Minister Netanyahu is unacceptable and sends a deeply troubling message on the priorities of the United States under his Administration. It is unconscionable that Biden would restore aid to the Palestinians, who openly support terrorism, wage war against Israel and do not recognize its existence, before having a discussion with Israel’s prime minister. President Biden must apologize for this grave mistake and immediately make clear his commitment to uphold the longstanding and special partnership between the United States and Israel.

“Israel is our partner in every sense of the word and one of America’s most valued allies. In the Middle East, Israel shines as a beacon of democracy and for decades the United States has proudly supported and defended our great ally against our adversaries. As both Governor and Florida’s U.S. Senator, I have travelled to Israel several times and met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israeli leaders. Israel is an important partner in trade and we have no greater ally than Israel in our efforts to ensure peace in the Middle East, and around the world. It is unbelievable that President Biden would call Communist China’s General Secretary Xi, a dictator and adversary, before connecting with our ally, Israel. The call should happen today.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Outlines Priorities in Letter to Treasury Secretary Yellen

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Secretary Janet Yellen outlining his expectations for the U.S. Department of Treasury to commit to working with Congress to promote economic growth, address America’s $27 trillion debt crisis and hold brutal dictators accountable through strong economic sanctions. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

Senator Rick Scott announced his intent to file a bill to provide funding and resources needed to secure America’s Southern border, and offer a permanent solution for individuals registered in and eligible for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Senator Scott’s action follows repeated announcements and actions by the Biden Administration to advance radical immigration policy rooted in open borders and amnesty, pause deportations of illegal immigrants, and completely ignore border security.

Senator Rick Scott said, “One of the most moving experiences of my life has been watching new American citizens say the pledge of allegiance at their nationalization ceremony. I’ve always said that getting immigration reform done becomes a lot easier once our border is secure and we have a permanent solution for DACA. Today, I am proud to announce that I am filing a bill that provides a permanent solution to the many people in the DACA program and provides tens of billions of dollars in long-term funding for our Southern border wall and border security personnel. My proposal will give our law enforcement and border patrol the resources they need to do their job, protect American families and stem the tide of the rampant and unyielding illegal immigration we’ve seen for decades at the Southern border. President Biden’s plan of open borders and amnesty isn’t about practical reforms – it’s a radical and dangerous subversion of law and order. We can and must do better.

“American innovation and our unique culture has been built on legal immigration. But, for too long, politicians in Washington have refused to address the issue of illegal immigration head-on, and we can’t ignore it anymore. Doing so is reckless and unfair to the American people, kills American jobs, and prevents countless families from pursuing the opportunity to chase their American Dream. It’s time to come together and finally bring a sensible solution forward.” Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: “Buy American” Puts American Interests First

In 2020, the U.S. Senate passed Senator Rick Scott’s bipartisan “Buy American” resolution calling on all Americans to support American jobs and manufacturing and build our supply chain by purchasing American-made products, from any American manufacturer. This week, Senator Rick Scott offered his support of President Joe Biden’s “Buy American” executive order, which directs agencies to strengthen requirements for procuring goods and services from sources that will support U.S. businesses and workers.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Last year, the Senate passed my bipartisan resolution calling on families to buy American-made products whenever possible to help support American jobs and manufacturing, and build our supply chain. Now more than ever, Americans must remember that every time we buy a product ‘Made in China,’ we are putting another dollar into the pockets of Communist Chinese government leaders and their cronies who steal our jobs and our technology. It’s not always easy to buy American, but it’s an important step we can all take at home to ensure America remains a leader in the global economy and is self-reliant in our supply chain. Buying American is not partisan, and I’m glad to see President Biden join me in acting to put American interests first. I hope the Biden Administration’s foreign policy nominees will share this commitment to holding Communist China accountable and take aggressive action to confront the threat it poses to international security and American interests.” Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott to Brazilian President Bolsonaro: Don’t Let Communist China into Brazil’s Networks

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro urging the him to reconsider Brazil’s decision to open the country’s 5G network auctions to Chinese telecom equipment maker Huawei Technologies, which the U.S. Government has determined to be a national security threat and continues to be a bad actor across the globe. Companies that allow Huawei into their networks risk their national security and give Communist China direct access to the most sensitive data of their citizens, including medical records, financial information, and social media accounts. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

Senator Rick Scott Joins Senator Ted Cruz and Colleagues to Introduce Constitutional Amendment Imposing Congressional Term Limits

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Ted Cruz and colleagues to reintroduce an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would impose term limits on Members of Congress. U.S. Senators would be limited to two six-year terms and members of the House of Representatives to three two year terms.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Washington is more dysfunctional than ever, and I’m fighting every day to make reforms in the best interest of American families. Career politicians are never going to make the tough choices needed to get our nation on a successful path. They care more about politics and their next election than the future of this country. That has to end now. We need to reimagine government and term limits are the right place to start.” Read more from Senator Cruz’s office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: Congress Must Get Serious About America’s Debt

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to his colleagues in Congress urging them to commit to making the changes necessary to put the nation on successful fiscal path and address our out-of-control $27 trillion federal debt. In August, the current two-year suspension of the debt ceiling will expire and Congress will again be faced with a vote to increase the debt limit. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

Senators Rick Scott, Rubio, Schatz and Hirono Introduce Restoring Resilient Reefs Act

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Marco Rubio, Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono to reintroduce the bipartisan Restoring Resilient Reefs Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000 and strengthen NOAA’s Coral Reef program.

Senator Rick Scott said, “During my time as Governor of Florida, we worked to increase investments in our environment by $1 billion to preserve and protect our natural resources. I’m proud to join Senators Rubio, Hirono and Schatz to reintroduce the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act, which will build on our efforts and help restore and protect our coral reef ecosystems. I will continue working to make sure future generations can enjoy all that Florida has to offer.” Read more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott to DHS: We Need Answers on Biden’s Radical Immigration Order

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary David Pekoske requesting additional information on President Biden’s radical immigration plan of open borders and amnesty, including his push for a 100-day pause on deportations and gravely concerning order for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to release individuals awaiting deportation. Senator Scott has long called for reforms to fix the broken immigration system and believes we must take swift action to address this critical issue, including providing real, long-term solutions for TPS and DACA, but that must start with securing the border. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott, Colleagues Reintroduce Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Lindsey Graham and colleagues in reintroducing the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, which would provide protections for unborn children at 20 weeks after fertilization.

Senator Rick Scott said, “In the United States, we believe in the sanctity of life and the value that each child brings into this world. Although not yet born, these babies are capable of feeling pain, and we must work to protect their lives just the same. I hope all my colleagues join me in protecting life and pass this legislation quickly.” Read more from Senator Graham’s office HERE.

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio Reintroduce Bill to Address Harmful Algal Blooms in South Florida

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marco Rubio and Congressmen Brian Mast and Darren Soto to reintroduce the South Florida Clean Coastal Waters Act, legislation that would direct the Interagency Task Force on Harmful Algal Blooms to assess the causes and consequences of the blooms in Lake Okeechobee and around Florida’s southern coastlines identify needed resources, and develop a plan of action to address these challenges.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As Governor and now as Senator, I’ve worked with leaders across our state to address the harmful algal blooms that plague Florida’s waters. Today, I’m proud to join Senator Rubio to build on these efforts by reintroducing the South Florida Clean Coastal Waters Act to expand research and our understanding of blue-green algae and red tide. We must keep working to protect Florida’s beautiful waters, environment and natural resources for future generations.” Read more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: Biden Needs to End Democrat Hostility Toward Israel and Stand up for our Great Ally

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the announcement that the Biden Administration will restore diplomatic relations with the Palestinian Authority, including a resumption of American aid to the Palestinians.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Trump Administration made tremendous efforts to facilitate peace and prosperity between our great ally Israel and Arab nations. Two weeks in, and the Biden Administration wants to undo this progress and appease illegitimate Palestinian leaders – demonstrating once again the Democrats’ reckless disregard for the security and prosperity of Israel. The Palestinian leadership, which has been operating as a dictatorship for 15 years, had their last election for president in 2005. They still do not accept Israel’s existence and support terrorism. Israel is a vibrant democracy that supports capitalism, champions human rights and holds free and open elections. The Biden Administration can’t go down this path. The United States must always align with those fighting for freedom and democracy, and stand up against those that do not respect human rights.” Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Reintroduces American Security Drone Act

Senator Rick Scott reintroduced the bipartisan American Security Drone Act for the 117th Congress. Senator Scott’s American Security Drone Act works to prohibit the U.S. Government from purchasing drones manufactured in countries identified as national security threats, like Iran and Communist China. The American Security Drone Act, which was passed out of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee last Congress, is cosponsored by Senators Chris Murphy, Marco Rubio, Richard Blumenthal, Marsha Blackburn, Tom Cotton and Josh Hawley.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’m proud to join my colleagues to reintroduce my American Security Drone Act, which will help protect our national security and the privacy of American citizens by prohibiting the federal government from buying drones manufactured by our adversaries. I’ve been very clear about the threat we face from technology companies controlled by Communist China, which is known for espionage and theft of technology. For too long, the United States has used taxpayer dollars to buy drones from companies backed by the Communist Chinese Government, allowing one of the United States’ biggest adversaries into the most sensitive areas of our government and putting our national security at risk. There’s absolutely no reason we should allow this to continue. We must pass the American Security Drone Act immediately.” Read more HERE

Senator Rick Scott: I Stand for Life

Senator Rick Scott released the following video in recognition of the 48th annual March for Life. Ahead of the March for Life, Senator Rick Scott also co-sponsored several pieces of legislation to protect the unborn, and make sure all life is honored and protected. Read more HERE or watch the video below.

Senators Rick Scott, Ron Johnson and Marco Rubio Introduce the Luke and Alex School Safety Act

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Ron Johnson and Marco Rubio to reintroduce the Luke and Alex School Safety Act. This legislation would codify into law the Federal Clearinghouse on School Safety, which informs parents and educators on expert recommendations and best practices that schools can implement to improve school security. The clearinghouse also provides information on available federal resources and grant programs that can be used toward these safety measures.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Nearly three year ago, we lost 17 innocent lives in the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. I think about those lives lost, and the families impacted, every day. Since that horrible day, I’ve worked closely with many of the victims’ family members as Governor and now as Senator to ensure no child, educator, or family has to experience that again. This legislation, the Luke and Alex School Safety Act, honors two of the victims, Luke Hoyer and Alex Schachter, and builds on our work to keep schools safe and prevent another tragedy. I will never stop working to protect our students and educators, and ensure they have a safe environment to learn and succeed.” Read more from Senator Johnson’s office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: HHS Must Provide More Transparency on Vaccine Distribution Plan

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Health and Human Services Acting Secretary Norris Cochran requesting detailed information about the Biden Administration’s plan to administer 1.5 million shots a day in the coming weeks and give 150 million vaccinations over the next 100 days. Senator Scott is also requesting HHS quickly provide more certainty to local elected officials and communities regarding vaccine distribution so they can communicate expectations to the overwhelming amount of constituents eager to receive a vaccine. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The devastating impact of the coronavirus on our nation cannot be overstated. Since Communist China’s lies led to the spread of the virus and its vicious attack on American families one year ago, too many Americans have lost loved ones. Too many have felt the terrible hopelessness of job loss. Too many dreams of entrepreneurs and small family-owned businesses have been crushed in the wake of economic downturn.

“There is no question that we must do more to support those whose livelihoods have been torn from them due to this pandemic. I’ve said from the beginning that the efforts of Congress should be strategic, focusing on families and small businesses in need, and I have offered proposal after proposal doing just that. While there are some good things in President-elect Biden’s proposed package, like help for individuals and small businesses and increased support for vaccines and testing, he plans to spend too much of the $1.9 trillion dollars in taxpayer money on liberal priorities that have nothing to do with the coronavirus. Biden is following directly in the footsteps of failed politicians Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer by pushing policies like bailouts for wasteful, liberal states, a national $15 minimum wage mandate that will kill our small businesses, and more stimulus checks without accountability or eligibility measures for Americans who haven’t lost their jobs.

“We have to get serious about how we’re spending taxpayer dollars. Biden wants to spend more than $350 billion to bailout wasteful states. I’ve been clear – asking taxpayers to bailout failed politicians in liberal states like New York and Illinois and save them from their own bad decisions isn’t fair to fiscally responsible states like Florida. It makes no sense. Congress has already allocated more than $4.5 trillion to address this crisis. We still don’t know how much money is unspent from previous coronavirus relief packages; including the nearly $1 trillion package that was passed just three weeks ago. We cannot simply throw massive spending at this with no accountability to the current and future American taxpayer. I will continue fighting for targeted relief that provides needed assistance to Americans hit hardest by this pandemic; but I will not stand by and let failed liberal policies be used to mortgage our kids and grandkids futures.”

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

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following reports that President-elect Biden is working with Senator Schumer to give New York City and the State of New York $2 billion in additional FEMA emergency funding to address budget shortfalls caused by decades of fiscal mismanagement by the city and state. This move by President-elect Biden means that he plans to authorize the use of the FEMA fund which provides critical aid following hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters to irresponsibly bailout wasteful, liberal state and local governments.

Senator Rick Scott said, “For months, Democrats have been trying to get Congress to bailout wasteful, liberal states for their decades of mismanagement and excesses, and for months, I’ve been fighting to protect taxpayer dollars and make sure that doesn’t happen. Now, President-elect Biden and Senator Schumer aren’t even hiding the fact that they want to circumvent Congress and send billions to their friends Bill de Blasio and Andrew Cuomo in New York. Congress has already allocated more than $4.5 trillion in taxpayer money to address the coronavirus crisis. States can moderate their economic harm through reasoned, balanced measures that protect citizens without destroying their economies. New York’s economy is still shut down, and its budget shortfalls are because De Blasio and Cuomo have continued to waste money and failed to prioritize their struggling constituents. It is irresponsible for Biden and Schumer to expect Florida and the rest of the country to pay for the failures of their friends in New York.” Read more HERE.

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Senator Rick Scott Applauds Decision to Reinstate Cuba to the List of State Sponsors of Terrorism

Senator Rick Scott applauded the Administration for its commitment to hold the Cuban regime accountable by reinstating Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. The State Department’s decision comes after Senator Scott urged the Administration to take this important step to continue the fight for freedom and end the instability, chaos and violence in Latin America.

Senator Rick Scott said, “For years, I’ve called for Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism to be reinstated, and I’m glad the Administration heeded those calls today. The Obama-Biden Administration’s appeasement policies toward Cuba allowed Havana to extend its reach and expand its control, giving power to other ruthless dictatorships in Latin America. Today, Cuba continues to oppress its people and those across Latin America by supporting narco-states run by dictators like Maduro and Ortega, while harboring terrorist groups. Reinstating Cuba’s rightful designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism signals to the global community that the U.S. will not tolerate rouge nations that oppress their people. It’s a great day in the fight for freedom and democracy in Latin America.” Read more HERE.

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Senador Rick Scott aplaude la decisión de reinstalar a Cuba a la Lista de Estados Patrocinadores del Terrorismo

El Senador Rick Scott aplaudió a la Administración por su compromiso en responsabilizar al régimen cubano y restablecer a Cuba como Estado Patrocinador del Terrorismo. La decisión del Departamento de Estado se produce luego de que el Senador Scott instara a la Administración a dar este importante paso para continuar la lucha por la libertad y poner fin a la inestabilidad, el caos y la violencia en América Latina.

El Senador Rick Scott dijo: “Durante años, he pedido que se restablezca la designación de Cuba como Estado Patrocinador del Terrorismo, y me complace que la Administración haya escuchado mi llamado hoy. Las políticas de apaciguamiento de la Administración Obama-Biden hacia Cuba permitieron que la Habana extendiera su alcance y expandiera su control, apuntalando a otras dictaduras despiadadas en América Latina. Hoy, Cuba continúa oprimiendo a su gente y a toda América Latina apoyando a los narco-estados dirigidos por dictadores como Maduro y Ortega, mientras albergan a grupos terroristas. Restablecer la designación de Cuba como Estado Patrocinador del Terrorismo le indica a la comunidad mundial que los Estados Unidos no tolerará a naciones que oprimen a su pueblo. Es un gran día en la lucha por la libertad y la democracia en América Latina”. Lea más AQUÍ.

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Statement from Sen. Rick Scott on the Passing of Sheldon Adelson

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the passing of Sheldon Adelson.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our country has lost a giant of business, a man of principle and one of America’s great philanthropists. My heart goes out to Miriam and the entire Adelson family. Miriam was his partner in everything that he did and you could tell how much he loved and respected her whenever you were around him.

“Over the years, I got to know Sheldon through his work on combatting drug use and his efforts to support and defend Israel, causes that he dedicated his life to. He did everything in his power to make sure the world never forgot the horrors of the Holocaust or allowed the evil of anti-Semitism to go unchallenged. His commitment to freedom, security and opportunity for all was only matched by the passion with which he pursued that commitment. He changed the lives of millions and will forever be remembered as a leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of his country, the nation of Israel and the world.” Read more HERE.

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Senator Rick Scott, Senator Tom Cotton and Colleagues: Stop Illegal PPP Loans to Planned Parenthood

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Tom Cotton and colleagues in a letter urging U.S. Small Business Administrator Jovita Carranza to prevent Planned Parenthood affiliates from receiving illegal loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).  Read more from Senator Tom Cotton’s office HERE.

U.S. Sen. Rick Scott Recognizes Human Rights Awareness Month

Since his time as Governor, Senator Scott has worked to support the fight for freedom in Cuba, Venezuela and throughout Latin America. Senator Scott is focused on securing a stronger and more vibrant Latin America – with the understanding that ending the Cuban dictatorship will lead to greater stability and freedom for the entire region.

Senator Scott has also been an outspoken opponent of the human rights atrocities in Communist China. For over a year, Senator Scott has been calling on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to reconsider its decision to host the 2022 Winter Olympics in Communist China, where more than one million Uyghurs are being held in concentration camps while the people of Hong Kong are being arrested and having their rights stolen.

Senator Scott will continue to stand with those fighting for freedom around the globe.

On July 20, 2020, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following a speech by International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, who claimed that “boycotts and discrimination because of political background or nationality are once again a real danger” and warned about what he called “the growing misuse of sport for political purposes.”

For nearly a year, Senator Scott has been urging the Committee to reconsider its decision to host the 2022 Winter Olympics in Communist China as General Secretary Xi Jinping commits genocide against the Uyghurs in Xinjiang and restricts the human rights of Hong Kongers.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Uyghur prisoners in Communist China are being rounded up, blindfolded, shaved and loaded onto trains to be taken to concentration camps, and all IOC President Bach is concerned about is his claim that people are using sports for political purposes. This is nonsense and reveals a shameful disregard for the victims of General Secretary Xi and the Chinese Communist Party’s crimes.

“Beijing is committing genocide against the Uyghurs simply because of their religious beliefs and is cracking down on the human rights of Hong Kongers. The world must unite against this horrific injustice. This isn’t about politics or a boycott. It’s about basic human rights. The IOC should find a new home for the 2022 Olympic Games, and if Bach continues to refuse to acknowledge Communist China’s human rights abuses, then the IOC should find a president who does.”

Read more HERE.

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On October 21, 2020, following a series of stories detailing Communist China’s oppression and genocide of Uyghurs, a religious and ethnic minority living in the northwestern province of Xinjiang, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to the International Olympic Committee’s Executive Board members urging them to stand up for human rights and move the 2022 Olympic Games out of China. For over a year, Senator Rick Scott has been calling on the Committee to stand up for freedom and urge Communist China to stop violating human rights, or find a new home for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

Read the Senator’s letter HERE.

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On December 10, 2020, Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urging the State Department to shine a light on the severity of Communist China’s oppression and atrocities against the Uyghurs, a religious and ethnic minority living in the northwestern province of Xinjiang, and classify the actions as genocide.

Read the Senator’s letter HERE.

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On November 17, 2020, Senator Rick Scott joined Congressmen Ted Yoho and Tom Malinowski and Senator Jeff Merkley in a letter to United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres urging the UN to investigate the Communist Party of China’s ongoing human rights abuses and genocide against Uyghurs in Xinjiang.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s shameful that Communist China’s campaign of genocide against the Uyghurs has been ignored by the UN Human Rights Council for so long. The UN Human Rights Council must immediately hold a special session to address this growing crisis. I am proud to join my colleagues to call on the UN to take immediate and forceful action to expose and condemn Communist China’s despicable human rights abuses.”

Read the Senator’s letter HERE.

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On October 17, 2019, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to the President of the International Olympics Committee urging the Committee to reconsider its decision to host the 2022 Winter Olympics in Communist China.

Read the Senator’s letter HERE.

On October 23, 2020, Senator Rick Scott sent an open letter calling on business leaders around the world to support those fighting for freedom and democracy, and refuse to do business with the Cuban regime. The international business community must unite against dangerous dictators and put human rights above profits.

Read the Senator’s letter HERE and the Spanish version HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Applauds President Trump and the Administration for Rolling Back Obama-Era Cuba Policies

On September 23, 2020, Senator Rick Scott applauded the Trump Administration’s announcement of new travel restrictions and sanctions against the Cuban regime, including prohibiting American citizens from importing Cuban-origin alcohol and tobacco products in order to deny the regime of additional sources of revenue. Senator Rick Scott has been urging the Administration to continue to take concrete steps to hold the Cuban Regime accountable.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’m glad the Trump Administration is continuing to demonstrate their commitment to freedom and democracy in Latin America. I’ve been calling on the Administration to limit the flow of money to Cuba and implement tougher sanctions for some time and I’m glad they have taken action to deny the Cuban regime sources of revenue. Americans citizens should not be providing additional sources of revenue to a regime that uses its profits to oppress its own people and support murderous dictators like Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. These new travel restrictions and sanctions roll back Obama-era policies of appeasement to the Castro regime. Cuba is the root of the evil we see in Latin America and we must continue to fight until we see a new day of freedom in our hemisphere.

Read more HERE and the Spanish version HERE.

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On March 26, 2020, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement applauding the Department of Justice for charging Nicolás Maduro and 14 current and former Venezuelan officials with narco-terrorism, corruption, drug trafficking and other criminal charges.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’ve encouraged the Trump Administration to do everything in its power to hold Maduro accountable for his crimes and the genocide he is committing on the people of Venezuela. I am glad the Department of Justice is taking the historic step to indict Maduro. His brutal regime is crumbling and it’s time for him to back down. We will never stop fighting to free the people of Venezuela, and the United States will always stand with those fighting for freedom, democracy and human rights.”

Read more HERE and the Spanish version HERE.

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On February 6, 2020, Senator Rick Scott joined Interim President of Venezuela Juan Guaidó and South Florida lawmakers at a rally to promote freedom in Venezuela. Senator Scott and Interim President Guaidó also met to discuss how the U.S. can continue to help the fight for freedom and democracy and end Maduro’s murderous regime.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It was an honor to join Interim President Guaidó in Miami today as we continue working to bring freedom to the people of Venezuela. We will never stop fighting for an end to Nicolas Maduro’s brutal regime, and the United States will always stand with those fighting for freedom, democracy and human rights.”

Read more HERE.

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On February 4, 2020, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following reports that Spain’s Transport Minister Jose Luis Abalos met with Maduro’s illegitimate vice-president, Delcy Rodriguez, in Spain this week. Members of Maduro’s ruthless regime are banned from entering the European Union (EU). During Senator Scott’s meeting with Interim President Juan Guaido on Saturday, Senator Scott discussed the need for the EU to do more to enforce sanctions against the Maduro regime.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I called on the EU to join the United States and do more to help the Venezuelan people, and I was encouraged when the EU joined as a partner in this worldwide fight against evil. But allowing a Maduro official to enter the EU shows they are not strongly enforcing their own sanctions. More must be done. If we are serious about helping the people of Venezuela and getting Maduro to step aside, the EU needs to do a better job of enforcing their sanctions. And Spain, as a member of the EU, needs to do their part and not allow members of its government to legitimize Maduro’s regime. People are dying. Europe, the United States and freedom-loving nations around the world need to do everything in our power to isolate Maduro in Venezuela and cut off the supply of money from Cuba to Caracas.”

Read more HERE.

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On June 4, 2019, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after President Trump’s Administration announced new restrictions on U.S. travel to Cuba, banning many education and recreational trips.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Cuba continues to be the most powerful force propping up Nicolas Maduro as he starves and kills his own people. The Cuban Regime is a willing and active participant in Maduro’s genocide. The United States is right to take every action possible to cut off ties with Cuba. I applaud President Trump for taking this important step to restrict U.S. travel to Cuba. Money spent in Cuba goes directly to the Castro Regime and helps keep Maduro and his brutal regime in power. Limiting the flow of money to Cuba is critical to freeing Venezuela and protecting the national security of the United States.”

Read more HERE and the Spanish version HERE.

On March 4, 2020 Senators Rick Scott and Ed Markey introduced a bipartisan resolution calling on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to move the 2022 Winter Olympics out of China and rebid it to another country unless Beijing addresses its violation of human rights. This resolution was also sponsored by Senators Jim Inhofe, Dick Durbin, Martha McSally, Doug Jones, Marco Rubio, Tom Cotton, Todd Young, Marsha Blackburn and Mike Braun.

This resolution follows Senator Scott’s continued calls on the IOC to stand for freedom and urge Communist China to stop violating human rights, or find a new home for the 2022 Olympic Games.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communist China should not be allowed to host the 2022 Olympic Games while simultaneously running concentration camps, violating human rights and oppressing the people of Hong Kong. The Olympic Games are an incredible opportunity to allow the world’s best athletes to represent their countries and unite our nations, and should not be hosted by one of the world’s worst human rights abusers. Today, the Senate is sending a clear message to the IOC: stand up for freedom and urge Communist China to do the right thing, or find a new home for the 2022 Olympic Games. It’s not about politics, it’s about human rights.”

Read more HERE.

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