RPOF Newsletter
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GOVERNOR DESANTIS LAUNCHES ‘DON’T TREAD ON FLORIDA’ TOUR
Governor DeSantis will be barnstorming the state in the final weekend before Election Day, carrying the message of freedom, safe communities, parental rights and a thriving economy to every part of the state.
Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, CFO Jimmy Patronis, Agriculture Commissioner nominee Wilton Simpson and First Lady Casey DeSantis will appear at various stops.
Find where Governor DeSantis will be near you: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ron-desantis-17356151521
FLORIDA GOP TURNOUT IS SURGING!
Something amazing happened Wednesday. Republicans passed Democrats in voting in Miami-Dade County — even with several days of early voting remaining, along with election day, typically the biggest GOP advantage.
As CBS Miami put it: “In an extraordinary sign of trouble for Democrats and a good omen for the GOP in Florida ahead of Election Day, the number of registered Republicans voting in Miami-Dade County surpassed Democrats on Wednesday – one day after President Joe Biden visited the area on a campaign swing.”
Read more: https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/republican-turnout-surging-in-traditionally-blue-miami-dade/
FIRST LADY CASEY DESANTIS ANNOUNCES 1.1 MILLION MAMAS FOR DESANTIS!

Join Mamas for DeSantis
HURRICANE IAN UPDATES
GOVERNOR DESANTIS CONTINUES WORKING ON STORM RECOVERY
Despite the ongoing political campaign, Governor DeSantis has never taken his eye off the recovery and restoration efforts required by Hurricane Ian.
For a full rundown of actions taken and resources available for Hurricane Ian recovery in Florida, click here:www.flgov.com
Donate to the Florida Disaster Fund at www.FloridaDisasterFund.org or text “Disaster” ($10) or “Disaster 25” ($25) to 20222.
Information on the First Lady’s Toy Drive can be found at www.FloridaStormRelief.com
WE’RE STRONGER PULLING TOGETHER!
You have the ability to greatly expand the message of the Republican Party by sharing Facebook and Twitter posts. Please follow and retweet us on Twitter @FloridaGOP, and like and share us on Facebook at FloridaGOP. We can win over even more if we all pitch in to reach them with our message.
SENATOR RUBIO GETS SUPPORT AND RESPECT FROM NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT

Senator Marco Rubio spoke to the National Association of Police Organizations Wednesday at the group’s Fall Seminar, thanking them for keeping our communities safe and for supporting his reelection.
Earlier this year, Marco Rubio was endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations, as well as a bipartisan group of 56 of Florida’s 66 elected sheriffs, the 1,000-member Florida Police Chiefs Association, the 30,000-member Florida Police Benevolent Association, and the 24,000-member Florida Fraternal Order of Police.

Rubio Ad: Stop the Radicals. Save America
FLORIDA TAXWATCH AWARDS ATTORNEY GENERAL ASHLEY MOODY ITS TOP HONOR
Florida TaxWatch named Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office the State Agency of the Year and presented the Attorney General with the TaxWatch Productivity Award.

“We strive to serve the public and be good stewards of taxpayer funds,” Attorney General Moody said. “I hope this award reaffirms to all Floridians that we take this role very seriously and will always work to do the most good with the state resources entrusted to our agency.”
Read more here
Watch more here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ojjaom8Z46M
CFO JIMMY PATRONIS RETURNS MORE THAN $35 MILLION IN UNCLAIMED PROPERTY IN OCTOBER
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis announced that more than $35 million in unclaimed property was returned to Floridians in October. Since CFO Patronis took office in 2017, more than $1.8 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to Floridians.

“As Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, it is my mission to return every cent of unclaimed property back to its rightful owner,” CFO Jimmy Patronis said.
Read more:
https://www.myfloridacfo.com/news/pressreleases/details/2022/11/01/cfo-jimmy-patronis-returns-more-than-35-million-in-unclaimed-property-in-october
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR JEANETTE NUÑEZ SHARES FLORIDA’S FREEDOM FIRST SUCCESSES
Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez was on NBC 6 Impact with Jackie Nespral this week making the case that, thanks to Governor DeSantis’ freedom first policies, Florida has the largest-ever budget surplus, which protects Florida taxpayers from Bidenflation. This is the kind of leadership Floridians need for four more years!
Watch here: https://www.nbcmiami.com/on-air/as-seen-on/nbc-6-impact-lt-governor-jeanette-nunez/2895871/
SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
There is one action you can take today to secure the future of our state — VOTE!
Everything is at stake in this election, and we cannot get complacent.
Help us ensure Florida remains the freest state in the nation by committing to vote:https://t.co/U0uoRiUf0O
— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) November 2, 2022
We need to make things in America again! #Sayfie pic.twitter.com/mYbg0GBEUY
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) October 31, 2022
TY, @FloridaTaxWatch, for recognizing our agency and the BILLIONS in recoveries we secured:
✅$3.4 billion by our antitrust division
✅$3.2 billion through our opioid litigation
✅$469 million by our Consumer Protection team
✅$160 million through our Medicaid Fraud Control Unit— AG Ashley Moody (@AGAshleyMoody) November 2, 2022
This was 2 years ago. And to think, Joe Biden campaigned in South Florida today. He may not be able to remember much of anything, but Florida remembers what it was like when gas prices were normal. It was at the same time that we had a functioning federal government. Read 👇 👇 https://t.co/jfR4Ehio7m
— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) November 1, 2022
Our administration has made the largest increase in teacher compensation in Florida’s history.
Meanwhile, Charlie cut education by $300M and picked a radical teachers’ union boss as his running mate who called parents “crazies” for showing up at school board meetings. pic.twitter.com/VQl1bdzA5m
— Jeanette M. Nuñez (@JeanetteNunezFL) November 2, 2022
God bless the great state of Florida. Preserve our freedoms by voting today.🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/42TdlZS8Vg
— Florida GOP (@FloridaGOP) November 2, 2022
The Democrat Machine would love nothing more than to turn Florida into another woke dumpster fire of a state.
We cannot let that happen. Help us keep the Biden-Crist agenda OUT of Florida and cast your vote for Governor @RonDeSantisFL TODAY! 🐊🗳https://t.co/M2RglPreWo pic.twitter.com/ahnSXR4Knj
— Team DeSantis 🐊 (@teamrondesantis) November 2, 2022
Great to be at @EasternShip for a #GettingThingsDone Rally in Panama City! 🇺🇸👷♀️ pic.twitter.com/TerOTwvUCO
— Team Marco (@TeamMarco) October 31, 2022
REMEMBER: Like @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
October 2022 Community Newsletter
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The Clerks Report

What a way to end September! In my 34 years here in Collier County and almost 40 in Florida, this storm was the worst direct hit to our coast that I’ve experienced.
Many of our new residents may not remember that it was just five years ago that Hurricane Irma blew through our community and caused significant damage. And we’ve seen damage from storms like Hurricane Charlie and Hurricane Andrew.
Though we lost power, and our community was challenged, we worked together to rebuild Southwest Florida into the paradise coast that we all know and love.
Read more
Collier County Board of County Commissioners
adopts $1.9 Billion Budget

On September 22, 2022 the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) adopted the $1,959,954,000 (yes, that is billions) Fiscal Year 2023 budget. Adopting the annual budget and the associated tax rates are arguably the most important duties of a County Commissioner.
Learn more
After the Hurricane, Watch Out for Scams

Residents should be alert to scammers offering storm-related repairs or tree removal services, promising emergency grant funds, or alleging charitable intentions in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. Natural disasters create opportunities for fraud by scammers using phone, text, mail, email, and even door-to-door methods to target affected residents.
Learn more
Expanded Legal Self Help Center Now Open

After months of renovation to improve our office and customer service area, the Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller is proud to announce the opening of our expanded and improved Legal Self Help Center located on the 1st Floor of the Courthouse Annex.
Learn more
Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Office recognizes October as
Domestic Violence Awareness Month

For the entire month of October, the Collier County Clerk’s office will be observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a commitment to raising awareness in the community and providing safe, confidential services to those in need. The Clerk’s office has held a long-time partnership with The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, to give victims support in filing protective orders, dissolution of marriage, and other court forms as needed.
Read full Press Release
Clerk Crystal K. Kinzel
encourages residents to register for free
Risk Alert Notification Program

In the first half of 2022, a total of 817 cases of data compromises were recorded with over 53 million affected US individuals. These data compromises vary from data breaches, data exposure, and data leakage which are some of the causes of online identity theft.
Read full Press Release
Called to Service: What to do when you receive a summons for Jury Service

US citizens are obligated to appear for jury duty upon receiving a summons from a court via US Mail. As a juror, you are tasked to determine the facts and provide unbiased views on a criminal or civil case based on the pieces of evidence presented during a trial.
Learn more

We’re hiring!
Visit CollierClerk.com to see available positions.
Facebook
Website
Email
Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller
3315 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102
Naples, Florida 34112 USA
www.CollierClerk.com
Community Relations and Outreach
(239) 252-6879
2022 Declared Republican Candidate on General Election Ballot
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by admin2022 Declared Republican Candidates on 2022 Ballot
General Election – November 8, 2022
Voter Registration Deadline/Book Closing: October 11
Early Voting: October 27 – November 5
Vote-by-Mail Ballot Mailings: September 24 (UOCAVA”military/overseas”)/September 29-October 31 | Ballot Request Deadline: October 29
The General Election ballot will list the winning candidates of the August Primary Election. During this election, voters will have the opportunity to vote for a candidate regardless of their party affiliation.
Click on the Republican Candidate Name below to go to their website (when available)
Federal Offices
US Senate
Running against Democrat Val Demmings
US Congress, District 18
New district that includes a portion of Immokalee, in Collier County, will face write in candidate Leonard Serratore and NPA Keith Hayden
US Congress, District 19
Byron Donalds
Cindy Lyn Banyai is the Democrat.
US Congress, District 25
Mario Diaz-Balart
Democrat is Christine Alexandria Olivo
State Offices
Governor
Will face Democrat Charlie Christ
Lt. Governor
Jeanette Nunez
Attorney General
Ashley Moody Democrat Aramis Ayala
Chief Financial Officer
Jimmy Patronis will face Democrat Adam Hattersley
Commissioner of Agriculture
Wilton Simpson will face Democrat Naomi Esther Blemur
State Attorney, District 20
Amira Fox – Unopposed Winner
Public Defender, District 20
Kathleen Smith – Unopposed Winner
State Representative, District 80
Adam Botana has a Democrat opponent named Mitchel Schlayer
State Representative, District 81
Bob Rommel – Unopposed Winner
State Representative, District 82
Lauren Melo – Unopposed Winner
Collier County
Collier County Commission, District 2
Chris Hall will face Democrat Bebe Kanto
Collier County Commission District 4
Daniel Kowal
Winner, after write in candidate Bill Oppenheimer withdrew.
County Judge Group 3
Winner after Primary win
Collier County School Board District 1
Jerry D. Rutherford
Jory Westberry
These top two Republican Primary winners will face off in the General Election
Collier County School Board District 3
These top two Republica Primary winners will face off in the General Election.
Collier County School Board District 5
These top two Republican Primary winners will face off in the General Election
Collier Mosquito Control District Seat 1
John Johnson
Collier Mosquito Control District Seat 2
There is a candidate that shows in the Supervisor of Elections candidate roster named Eliabeth Yiachos, but that name is not listed in the Collier County Voter rolls. This is the paperwork filed that shows no finances or assets
Collier Mosquito Control District Seat 3
There is a candidate that shows in the supervisor of elections candidate roster name Emily Dalto, but the name “Teixeira Dalto, Emilia Maria” shows in the voter rolls and is registered as a Republican, but never voted and registered to vote in December 20, 2020. This is the paperwork filed that shows no finances or assets.
Greater Naples Fire Seat 1
David Boothby
Mark Cherney
Charlie Cottiers
Christian Tobin was entered and withdrawn.
Greater Naples Fire Seat 3
Brian Cross
William Douglass
Greater Naples Fire Seat 4
Patrick Dearborn
Kevin Gerrity
North Collier Fire District Seat 1
Christopher Crossan
In addition, Anthony Scire has entered the race. He is a No Party Affiliate.
North Collier Fire District Seat 2
Jim Burke
Tyler Hardt
North Collier Fire District Seat 4
Christopher Lombardo
Judges on the Ballot
The judges on the ballot were appointed by Governor Rick Scott and Governor Ron DeSantis, Charlie Crist when he was a Republican, or Jeb Bush. The exception is Judge Stevan Travis Northcut, who was appointed by Governor Lawton Chiles.
Supreme Court: Justice Charles T. Canady
Justice John D. Curiel
Justice Jamie Grosshans
Justice Jorge Labarga
Justice Ricky Polston
District Court of Appeal, 2nd Court of Appeal:
Judge Patricia Joan Kelly
Judge Nely N. Khouzam
Judge Suzanne Y. Labrit
Judge Matt Locas
Judge Robert Morris
Judge Stevan Travis Northcutt
Judge John K. Stargel
Judge Craig C. Vilanti
RPOF Newsletter
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Chairman’s Message
Governor DeSantis Follows Through on Promise to Relocate Illegal Immigrants to Sanctuary Cities
Governor Ron DeSantis’ message to illegal immigrants who are illegally entering our country is clear: Florida is not a sanctuary state, and Florida will gladly facilitate the transport of illegal immigrants to sanctuary jurisdictions. President Biden needs to do his job and secure the border.
Governor DeSantis is making good on his promise to relocate illegal immigrants to places that welcome illegal immigration with open arms, such as sanctuary cities and states, and they can bear the strain on resources and to public safety that these open border policies bring.
Governor DeSantis requested funds in the state budget to transport illegal aliens to sanctuary states. It’s paid for using interest from federal funds. Meanwhile, Biden used our tax dollars to pay contractors to smuggle thousands of illegal immigrants to our cities in the dead of night for months, and the federal government has completely lost control of the southern border.
Florida Ranks Number One in Education Freedom

Governor DeSantis highlighted Florida’s number one ranking in education freedom at the unveiling of The Heritage Foundation’s 2022 Education Freedom Report Card. The report lauds Florida’s dedication to education transparency, regulatory freedom and return on investment, while praising the state’s rejection of critical race theory and championing of school choice and educational savings accounts.
“When other states were locking people down and keeping their kids out of school, we made sure kids were in school because we put their well-being before politics,” Governor DeSantis said. “While states like California, New York, and Illinois that denied in-person education to their children are now suffering from plummeting educational outcomes, Florida’s schoolchildren are thriving because we invest in our students and we empower parents to decide what learning environment is best for their kids.”
Throughout his time in office, Governor DeSantis has made education a top priority. By enshrining parents’ rights, expanding school choice, raising teacher pay, promoting civics education, bolstering workforce education and holding higher education accountable, Florida is leading the way as an educational model for the nation.
Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2022/09/09/governor-ron-desantis-highlights-floridas-number-one-ranking-for-education-freedom/
Florida Public Universities Ranked Among the Nation’s Best

Governor DeSantis announced that Florida public universities earned top spots in multiple categories in U.S. News and World Report’s 2022-2023 Best Colleges rankings.
The University of Florida is ranked number 5;
Florida State University is number 19;
The University of South Florida was ranked among the top 50 public universities in the country at number 42; and
The University of Central Florida and Florida International University came in at 64 and 72 respectively.
As of 2021, Florida has been ranked the number one state for higher education for five consecutive years by U.S. News and World Report.
“Florida schools are some of the best in the nation, and these rankings show that our investments in higher education and our focus on providing an affordable, quality education are paying off,” Governor DeSantis said. “I am especially proud that we have not allowed tuition increases since I have been Governor, making higher education in Florida as affordable as virtually anywhere in the nation.”
Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2022/09/14/florida-public-universities-ranked-among-the-nations-best/
WE’RE STRONGER PULLING TOGETHER!
You have the ability to greatly expand the message of the Republican Party by sharing Facebook and Twitter posts. Please follow and retweet us on Twitter @FloridaGOP, and like and share us on Facebook at FloridaGOP. We can win over even more if we all pitch in to reach them with our message.
FLORIDA
Governor DeSantis Again Thanks Florida’s First Responders with $1,000 Bonus

Governor DeSantis met with members of the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department to deliver $1,000 bonuses that reward our first responders, recognizing them for their dedicated public service.
“Florida supports our first responders because these men and women put on their uniforms every day to serve and protect,” Governor DeSantis said. “These bonuses are a token of our appreciation for the work that they do and the sacrifices they make to keep Florida safe.”
Eligible recipients of the first responder recognition bonus payments are police officers, sheriff’s deputies, paramedics, emergency medical technicians and firefighters employed by local governments throughout the state.
Learn more information about the First Responder Recognition Bonuses: www.FloridaJobs.org/Recognition-and-Recruitment.
Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2022/09/12/governor-ron-desantis-awards-recognition-payments-for-floridas-first-responders/
Governor DeSantis Activates the Florida National Guard to Assist the Department of Corrections
Governor DeSantis activated the Florida National Guard to help the Florida Department of Corrections reduce overtime and provide relief for correctional officers on a temporary basis.
During the 2022 Legislative Session, Governor DeSantis approved record pay increases to recruit and retain corrections officers. These historic pay increases and other incentives have shown early signs of success, with a net gain of nearly 640 officers since the conclusion of the 2022 session, compared to a net loss of more than 465 in the same amount of time prior.
Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2022/09/09/memorandum-executive-order-22-213-activating-florida-national-guard-to-assist-the-department-of-corrections/
Senator Rubio Ad: Val Demings Would be the Most Liberal Florida Senator Ever
Watch and share video below:
Senator Rubio Ad: Getting Things Done
Watch and share video below:
AG Moody Collects Devastating Evidence of Biden’s Plans to Immediately Release Masses of Illegal Immigrants into U.S.

Attorney General Ashley Moody continues to obtain devastating evidence of President Joe Biden’s failed immigration policies. Through aggressive litigation efforts, AG Moody’s office obtained a memo outlining the federal government’s plan to simply mass-release immigrants into the United States once Title 42 is repealed.
During the Attorney General’s Office deposition of U.S. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz, the chief testified that he had never before, during a 31-year career, seen or issued an order like the emergency memo.
“The Biden administration’s failed immigration policies are disastrous. Expecting to be overrun, Biden’s Border Patrol drafted a plan to hunker down and allow inadmissible immigrants to flood into the country,” Attorney General Moody said. “But for the efforts of our office and other responsible-minded, public-safety oriented attorneys general, Title 42 would have been repealed and Biden would have released untold thousands of additional immigrants into the interior of our country — outrageous!”
Read more: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/967FAEA6A500F3DC852588BC00535F64?Open&
Watch deposition comments: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=If6NtwjbtZU
CFO Patronis: “Not On My Watch.”
Releases Bill to Yank Licenses from IRS Vendors Who Discriminate
Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis released draft legislation this week for the upcoming legislative session to take the licenses of IRS vendors who discriminate. The legislation would establish anti-discrimination provisions on state licensed debt collectors.
“With 87,000 new IRS personnel, there is absolutely no doubt that some of those new agents are going to target Floridians based on their political beliefs, and it’s likely they could hire state licensed debt collectors to go after you,” CFO Patronis said. “Not on my watch. If a debt collector wrongly discriminates against, or targets, Floridians based on their political affiliation, ideology, viewpoint or conduct, we’ll yank their license to do business in Florida.”
Read more: https://www.myfloridacfo.com/sitePages/newsroom/pressRelease.aspx?id=6268
LG Nuñez on Newsmax: A Pedophile is a Pedophile
Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Núñez told Newsmax this week that the push to rebrand pedophiles as “minor-attracted persons” is “disgusting” and Florida won’t stand for it.
“A pedophile is a pedophile and they’re a pervert, and so that’s what we need to refer to them as,” she said. “There is no wokeism in our book that is going to allow a pedophile to be cast in a positive light.
Watch here: https://www.newsmax.com/newsmax-tv/jeanette-nunez-florida-pedophiles/2022/09/12/id/1087062/
SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
“Florida backs the blue. It was a no-brainer to move to Florida.” – Former NYPD Officer, Kelsey Artus
When so many states were maligning law enforcement, Florida provided strong support for those who keep our communities safe. pic.twitter.com/NRsC4lfGQ5
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) September 13, 2022
Restricting abortions to the first 4 months is more lenient than virtually every country in Europe
The extremists are people like Congresswoman Val Demings who opposes any restrictions & has voted for taxpayer funded abortion for any reason,at any time,up to the moment of birth
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) September 14, 2022
This week is #NTDAW2022. Florida truck drivers are vital to our thriving economy. We are grateful for the more than 6,400 drivers who have joined our Highway Heroes program and received training on how to spot and report #HumanTrafficking. #ThankATruckerhttps://t.co/FWliL5DCXE pic.twitter.com/AW446G2eQi
— AG Ashley Moody (@AGAshleyMoody) September 12, 2022
Just so we’re clear, the Inflation Reduction Act didn’t reduce inflation. Based on today's CPI report, inflation is UP. However, what Biden's law did do is create an army of 87,000 IRS personnel to go after small businesses in Florida. Apparently, Washington needs more money…
— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) September 13, 2022
Throughout our administration @GovRonDeSantis and I prioritized parents, kept schools open, eliminated common core, secured historic per-student funding, raised teachers' salaries, and expanded school choice.
Freedom and quality education are synonymous with Florida. https://t.co/jSXFwuEdwD
— Jeanette Nuñez (@LtGovNunez) September 9, 2022
Republicans are clearly the voice of reason.
Toddlers should NOT be forced to mask up, especially when studies show it hinders development. Tell the Biden Admin to rescind the mandate! https://t.co/vynlpbYJZz
— Florida GOP (@FloridaGOP) September 13, 2022
By enacting the Parents’ Bill of Rights and curriculum transparency legislation, Governor @RonDeSantisFL has empowered Florida parents to exercise their rights in directing the upbringing and education of their children. pic.twitter.com/n8Cklp3Zf7
— Team DeSantis 🐊 (@teamrondesantis) September 13, 2022
Val Demings is a pro-abortion extremist that supports taxpayer-funded abortions until the moment of birth.https://t.co/I5gMD4RFsY
— Team Marco (@TeamMarco) September 14, 2022
REMEMBER: Like @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
Primary Election Results
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by adminKeeping Florida and Collier County Red – Hats off to the Winners!

Russell Tuff
Chairman, CCCVPAC
Congratulations to the winners of the Primary Election.
Although Countywide turnout was only 29.7%, Republican turnout was 36.4%, beating the Democrat 32.5% turnout. No Party Affiliation and Other only turned out at 12.7%. 35% of the Republican vote came on election day.
With the Primary Election behind us, now is the time to unite. There were many good candidates who put it all on the line, but in the end we can only have one winner in each race, and we are fortunate to have such good candidates. Now is the time for us all to come together to make sure we win every race in November. To not do so is unthinkable.
See below as we highlight the Republican winners from Tuesday’s Primary elections.
The Leftists in our country have inspired a Red Wave of patriots not previously involved in politics. With a united Republican Party, we will be assured of victory in November.
Election Winners
Federal Offices
Our Republican Men’s Club is not allowed to promote Federal candidates, but we are excited that Congressmen Byron Donalds (District 19) and Mario Diaz-Balart (District 26) won their elections handily to take on their Democratic opponent. Also representing a small portion of Immokalee is Scott Franklin who won and is unopposed.
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will be taking on Democrat Val Demmings.
State Offices
Governor Ron DeSantis will take on Democrat Charlie Crist
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody will take on Democrat Aramis Ayala
Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis will take on Democrat Adam Hattersley
Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson will take on Democrat Naomi Ester Blemur.
District 80 State Representative Adam Botana will take on Democrat Mitchel Schlayer
District 81 State Representative Bob Rommell – won with no opposition
District 82 Representative Lauren Melo – won with no opposition
Local County Races

Chris Hall
Collier County Commission District 2- Chris Hall Winner
Chris Hall won with a resounding 50.1% of the vote.
Hall had overwhelming support on Election Day with over 60% of his vote total on election day.
Hall had 5,728 total votes out of a total of 11,438.
He will face Democrat Bebe Kanter in General Election.

Daniel Kowal
Collier County Commission District 4 – Daniel Kowal Winner
Danil Kowal won by achieving 42% of the vote total of 10,402. He received 80% more votes than incumbent Penny Taylors.
Kowal will face write in candidate Bill Oppenheimer in the general election day in November.
He received 57% of the vote on Election Day.
Competing against three other candidates, Kowal’s vote total was 4,373 out of a total of 10,402 votes cast.

Chris Brown
Collier County Judge Group 3 – Chris Brown Winner
Chris Brown won his race with 52.7% of the vote. On election day he garnered 12,934 votes to his opponents 8,023 to put him over the edge.
Brown won with 35,502 votes to 31,823 for his opponent Pamela Barger
Chris Brown Website

Jerry Rutherford and Jory Westberry
Collier County School Board District 1 Run Off Winners
Jerry D. Rutherford and Jory Westberry will advance to the General Election in November.
Rutherford attained 44.6% of the vote. On Primary Election day, Rutherford captured more than the combined vote of his two opponents.
Jory Westberry obtained 33.1% of the vote

Kelly Lichter and Jen Mitchell
Collier County School Board District 3 Run Off Winners
Kelly Lichter and Jen Mitchell will advance to the General Election in November.
Kelly Lichter received 48.6% of the vote, while Jen Mitchell received 38.2% of the vote.
Jen Mitchell captured the most vote by mail ballots, while Kelly Lichter won the Early and Election Day totals to be the top vote getter.

Tim Moshier and Roy Terry
Collier County School Board District 5 Run Off Winners
Tim Moshier and Roy Terry will advance to the runoff in the General Election in November.
Moshier captured 39.6% of the vote, while Roy Terry Captured 27% of the vote totals.
Ed Brandt Appointed to Fill Term on RMCC Board
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by adminDuring the August board meeting of the Republican Men’s Club of Collier County, Ed Brandt was appointed to fill a term for board member Tim West. West had to resign due to other commitments that unexpectedly came up that will require his attention.
You may recognize Brandt as the photographer at the meetings this year. His assistance has been appreciated in assisting in the RMCC efforts to create awareness of our club.
In addition, Ed Brandt registered to run for Collier Mosquito Control District, Seat 2.
Ed Brandt Bio

Ed Brandt
Ed Brandt currently serves as the Pastor for Lely Presbyterian Church, Naples, Florida. An ordained Presbyterian Minister, Ed has served churches in Pennsylvania, Delaware, California, and Michigan ranging in sizes from 50 to 2200. He and his wife Jane moved to Florida following a 32-year career in the National Guard. He retired from the National Guard in May 2020 from his last duty assignment in Arlington, Virginia as the Chief Chaplain, National Guard Bureau, and United States Army Deputy Chief of Chaplains, Army National Guard. He provided religious advice to the Chief, National Guard Bureau and served as liaison to the United States Army Chief of Chaplains. He retired at the rank of Brigadier General.
Prior to deploying to Iraq in 2008, Ed served churches full-time. While in Iraq, he served as a Brigade Chaplain providing pastoral care and worship to over 1200 Soldiers. For his service in Iraq, Ed received the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service. Upon returning home, he continued service as a Chaplain at the National Guard Bureau, Arlington, Virginia, and then as State Chaplain for Delaware. In 2017 he was selected as United States Army Deputy Chief of Chaplains, Army National Guard and in 2018 selected as Chief Chaplain, National Guard Bureau. He was honored to serve as the guest preacher for the 2019 annual Easter Sunrise Service at Arlington National Cemetery. Ed continues to be in high demand as a public speaker.
Ed serves on a number of Non-profit Boards including: ThanksUSA, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships to children of Service Members; Alumni Board of Governors for the University of Findlay, Findlay, Ohio; National Guard Youth Foundation, Washington, D.C.; OneMoreDay, a Suicide Prevention Organization; Chapel of the Four Chaplains, Philadelphia, PA; and is a former member of the Board of Trustees Lancaster Theological Seminary, Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and a former Adjunct Professor for Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C. Ed is a member of the Pelican Bay Rotary Club, Naples, Florida and a member of the Collier County Veterans Council, Naples. He recently spoke at the Naples Memorial Day Event and was the featured speaker at AVOW Armed Forces Day Observance.
Awards and honors include Outstanding Alumni, University of Findlay; and the Moss Award from Lancaster Theological Seminary presented for distinguished service in the practice of specialized ministry. He was one of the Commencement Speakers for the University of Findlay in May 2021.
Ed’s academic degrees include a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, a Doctor of Ministry from Lancaster Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Findlay. He received a certificate from the Homeland Defense Seminar, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts.
He is a lifelong Republican and looks forward to being involved in the community continuing decades of community service in his life.
Ed is married to the former Jane Stewart. Ed is the father of three children and Jane and Ed spend time spoiling their three grandchildren and reside in Naples, Florida with their Akita named Brownie. Ed currently serves as the Pastor for Lely Presbyterian Church, Naples Florida.
Scholarship – Ayden Abreu – National Flight Academy Report
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SW Florida Attendees from left: Daniel Dean, Kelsey Scott, Donovan Sealy, Nate Silva, Maxwell Kalmanek. (not pictured, Jay Athouriste and Yonise Pierre)
By Ayden Abreu
My trip to the National Flight Academy was the experience of a lifetime. The attendees and I were given the opportunity to learn what aviation in the service would be like. Once our flight landed in Pensacola, we headed to the NFA and prepared to live on a simulated carrier. Once all the cadets stepped off the bus and entered the building, we no longer felt as if we were in a compound, but on a ship, as the walls and doors embodied a Naval vessel. We were now aboard the ‘Ambition.’ Organized into a line, the cadets and I were given an ID, bunk room keys and assigned squadrons.
My trip to the National Flight Academy was the experience of a lifetime. The attendees and I were given the opportunity to learn what aviation in the service would be like. Once our flight landed in Pensacola, we headed to the NFA and prepared to live on a simulated carrier. Once all the cadets stepped off the bus and entered the building, we no longer felt as if we were in a compound, but on a ship, as the walls and doors embodied a Naval vessel. We were now aboard the ‘Ambition.’ Organized into a line, the cadets and I were given an ID, bunk room keys and assigned squadrons.

Vertical Smoke Takeoff
Every day, my bunkmates and I would wake up at 6:25- just 5 minutes before Reveille to prepare ourselves and our rooms for inspection. Once the trumpet goes off, game on! The havoc of screaming instructors, slamming on the door and the jostling of bed sheets was a nerve wrecking, yet intriguing experience. After the rooms were inspected, each cadet would rally with his/ her squadron and head to the first activity of the day. The day-to-day activities would consist of simulator flying, survival education, and/or instructional time.

Window View
Day one was made up of learning about the parts of an aircraft and how they reacted with the environment around them. Some of the other class curriculum also taught us how to communicate to Air Traffic Control, how to fly a flight plan, calculate fuel consumption over time, navigation, and of course, how to fly the aircraft. The NFA had constructed an aircraft for the simulators to replicate flying an experimental aircraft. The X-12B Triad was the cargo/ logistical aircraft that all the cadets would be flying in the NFA.
Throughout the week, there were a handful of experiences that stood apart more than others. Such as visiting the history museums that held aircrafts, dating from the First World War, all the way to modern aircrafts. I was marveled to see these war-torn machines up-close and personal. The NFA staff led pairs of squadrons around the museums so we could see all the aircraft and understand the history of each one. As well as being able to see the NC-4 Seaplane. What fascinated me most about the aircraft, it was the first of its kind to travel across the ocean- just completing its flight in 1919. The aircraft is also being indefinitely leased by the Smithsonian.
Although the Naval Aviation Museum was an interesting and enjoyable experience, it was not as incredible and astonishing as watching the Blue Angels fly just a few hundred feet over the crowd at their flight practice. Being able to experience what professionally trained pilots can really do says a lot more about the commitment of Naval pilots and really what all military aviators have. It is fascinating to me how a team can put in the work and accomplish a goal. The- Blue Angel’s goal was to fly as close to each other, in the safest yet most impressive manner to the audience as possible.

Ayden Abreu
On the last day, all the squadrons rallied at the public area of the museum as each of our names were called up to the stage for completing the National Flight Academy’s program. The opportunity to experience a sliver of living as a military aviator inspired me to look to the future and encouraged me to keep moving forward. I was given the opportunity to photograph a handful of these memorable moments, so that I could share them with you.

Ayden Abreu Receiving His Academy Certification
I want to thank everyone that contributed to making this trip of a lifetime possible. Such as my professor and mentor Mr. Alan Davis, Mr. Vincent Keeys from the NAACP, Mr. Rick LoCastro, Mr. Daniel Kowal of the Men’s Republican Committee, and all other individuals that contributed to making this happen. I am grateful for the opportunities as it solidified my vision for the future.
From the desk of Chairman Joe Grutters
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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
Special hotel rate has been extended but they are going fast, register today and get hotel link 24 hours later at special rate of $150.
Get your tickets now for the exciting 2022 Sunshine Summit HERE.

Under the phenomenal leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida leads the nation in freedom and personal liberty. Now is the time to purchase your tickets to two great events that celebrate the freedoms we all cherish: the 2022 Sunshine Summit and Victory Dinner at the Seminole Hardrock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida on July 22-23, 2022.
Governor DeSantis leads an all-star line-up of state and national conservative thought leaders to explore how upholding and respecting the rights guaranteed by our Constitution keeps Florida communities and residents safe and free. Some of the topics of discussion include the Left’s obsession with indoctrinating our children; the push to elect state attorneys who are weak on crime and seek to undermine law enforcement; insights into why a growing number of Florida’s minorities agree that the Democrat party has betrayed their trust; explore what more Florida needs to do to survive Bidenflation; strategize on how can we best defend Florida and the United States of America, and analyze whether our get-out-the vote efforts be enough.
We invite you to join us in a show of support and unity for the party and prove to the patriots in attendance and the rest of the country why Florida is the best state to live, work and raise a family.
If you have a question about the 2022 Sunshine Summit or Victory Dinner, please contact Cheryl Etters at cetters@rpof.org or email SunshineSummit@rpof.org.
We thank you for your support and hope to see you in Hollywood, Florida!
Onward to Victory!
FLORIDA
Supreme Court Approves Governor DeSantis’ Request for a Statewide Grand Jury to Investigate Illegal Immigration Crimes
The Florida Supreme Court late last week approved Governor Ron DeSantis’ request to impanel a statewide grand jury to investigate illegal immigration issues such as the illegal smuggling of children into the state.
Governor DeSantis explained: “The purpose of the grand jury will be to investigate individuals and organizations that are actively working with foreign nationals, drug cartels and coyotes to illegally smuggle minors, some as young as 2 years old, across the border and into Florida.”
In a unanimous order, the Supreme Court said the grand jury will have jurisdiction throughout, “to investigate crime, return indictments, make presentments and otherwise perform all functions of a grand jury with regard to the offenses.” Issues the grand jury could investigate include “parents, guardians or other family members of unaccompanied alien children who have conspired with transnational criminal organizations or other illicit actors to smuggle, and thus endanger, their children.”
WE’RE STRONGER PULLING TOGETHER!
You have the ability to greatly expand the message of the Republican Party by sharing Facebook and Twitter posts. Please follow and retweet us on Twitter @FloridaGOP, and like and share us on Facebook at FloridaGOP. We can win over even more if we all pitch in to reach them with our message.
Governor DeSantis’ Emphasis on Civics Already Paying Off

Governor DeSantis released the results of Florida’s 2022 civics assessments that demonstrate the success of Florida’s approach to educating its students on the history of our country, the exceptional nature of our form of government, and the role they play as citizens of our republic.
He also announced that the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative will expand to all school districts for the upcoming school year, and that 2,500 teachers will complete three-day civics professional development training courses by the end of July.
“While the Biden administration is seeking to award grants to indoctrinate students with ideologies like Critical Race Theory, in Florida we have focused on Civics Excellence, teaching accurate American History without an ideological agenda,” Governor DeSantis said.
Across the board, Florida’s students’ civic literacy has improved year over year.
Nearly three quarters of students scored at or above Level 3 in Civics in 2022, an increase of five percentage points from 2021.
S. History end of course (EOC) assessment performance increased by two percentage points.
From 2021 to 2022, all student subgroups increased or maintained performance at Level 3 and above in social studies. African American students had the largest increases in both social studies and science performance.
Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2022/06/30/governor-ron-desantis-announces-florida-students-elevating-their-excellence-in-civics/
Governor DeSantis Appoints Election Crimes Director
Governor DeSantis announced the appointment of Peter Antonacci as Director of the Office of Election Crimes and Security — the newly created office charged with investigating all election crimes in Florida and ensuring Florida’s elections remain secure. Antonacci has had an extensive career in public service, including experience in election security as a Deputy Attorney General, Statewide Prosecutor, and Broward County Supervisor of Elections.
Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2022/07/06/governor-ron-desantis-announces-the-appointment-of-peter-antonacci-as-director-of-the-office-of-election-crimes-and-security/
Rubio Asks for Investigation of Biden Administration Violating Abortion-Related Hyde Amendment

Senator Marco Rubio joined the Walton Republican Women Federated this week for their monthly BBQ luncheon in Miramar Beach.
Senator Marco Rubio sent a letter to Office of Personnel Management Director Kiran Ahuja regarding the Biden Administration’s potential violation of the Hyde Amendment by giving guidance for federal employees to use sick leave to cross state lines to “access medical care.”
“The Biden Administration’s actions and statements over the last several days are focused on undermining pro-life states and now they are even willing to violate longstanding federal law prohibiting the use of taxpayer monies to fund abortions or abortion services,” Rubio wrote. “The federal government has no business promoting the killing of unborn children. I demand that the agency clarify that the federal government will not provide sick leave for travel related to abortion services.”
Read more: https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D8C15DA3-6DE6-4B81-B9C3-47AA66CA7FE5
AG Moody and FTC Work to Shut Down Suspected COVID-19 Scam
AG Moody and the Federal Trade Commission filed a joint complaint to shut down a grant-writing service that allegedly made false promises of COVID-19 economic relief for minority-owned small businesses.
The complaint filed last week resulted in a federal court issuing a temporary restraining order against Grant Bae and its owner, Traeshonna P. Graham.
“The defendants targeted small, minority-owned businesses with the promise they could help secure COVID-19 relief,” Attorney General Moody said. “Instead of obtaining the promised federal grant funds, the defendants took fees from struggling businesses and left them in even worse financial condition. I am pleased we have shut down this scam and we will continue to litigate this case in an effort to recover lost funds for those harmed.”
Read more: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/C14E190F256F579F85258872004EC444
And more: https://cbs12.com/news/local/ftc-florida-attorney-general-file-complaint-shut-down-covid-19-relief-scam-grant-bae-traeshonna-p-graham
CFO Patronis: Arrest in $970,000 Staged Auto Accident Scheme
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Angela Ippolito Duncan, owner of Ybor Medical Center for allegedly planning and participating in staged car accidents to submit more than $970,000 in fake accident injury automobile insurance claims.
“Scam artists are working every day to drive up your insurance rates to line their own pockets,” CFO Patronis said. “Thankfully my fraud detectives are staying one step ahead of these schemes and were able to successfully shut down this staged accident fraud ring.”
Read more: https://www.myfloridacfo.com/sitePages/newsroom/pressRelease.aspx?id=6220
Lieutenant Governor Nuñez on Fox News: Grand Jury will Help Florida Investigate the Criminal Gangs from Illegal Immigration
Lieutenant Governor Nuñez told Martha MacCallum on Fox News that the Florida Supreme Court granting Governor DeSantis’ petition to impanel a statewide grand jury will give the state a strong weapon in investigating the criminal cartels operating in Florida that have vastly increased during Biden’s open border crisis.
Watch: https://video.foxnews.com/v/6308807012112#sp=show-clips
SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
Unilever’s decision to reverse Ben & Jerry’s discriminatory boycott by allowing their ice cream to be sold in Israel is a step in the right direction. I am disappointed they took a year to stand against BDS.
Florida will continue to maintain a strong relationship with Israel.
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) June 30, 2022
Why is Biden sending more troops,planes & ships to Europe instead of the Pacific?
Russia’s military is in no condition to invade anyone else right now and its China & North Korea who are threatening military aggression.
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 29, 2022
ICYMI: @CBS12: FTC, Florida Attorney General file complaint to shut down COVID-19 relief scamhttps://t.co/cpWwgvMwH3
— AG Ashley Moody (@AGAshleyMoody) July 5, 2022
Hey @GavinNewsom. Scoreboard. pic.twitter.com/garLusHIFL
— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) July 5, 2022
While #Venezuela celebrates its independence today, their fight for freedom against a tyrannical regime continues.
We stand with the people in their struggle for a free and democratic future. 🇺🇸🇻🇪
— Jeanette Nuñez (@LtGovNunez) July 5, 2022
We love our country, the men and women who protect it, and the freedom and liberty it grants. Happy Independence Day! pic.twitter.com/oOTvLjHDXH
— Florida GOP (@FloridaGOP) July 4, 2022
This is exactly why Governor @RonDeSantisFL worked so hard to keep Florida schools open. In Florida, we put students FIRST. https://t.co/WTBkBpNBGx
— Team DeSantis 🐊 (@teamrondesantis) July 6, 2022
Surprise, surprise. Pelosi Puppet Val Demings is fundraising with the Democrat she votes with 100% of the time. pic.twitter.com/6XQATe6H91
— Team Marco (@TeamMarco) June 29, 2022
REMEMBER: Like @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state, and you are integral to making that happen.
Remember to register for the 2022 Sunshine Summit!
Register HERE and visit SunshineSummit.org for updates.
Register for Sunshine Summit
Senator Marco Rubio, Congressman Byron Donalds and Congresswoman Kat Cammack are appearing as featured speakers only and are not soliciting any funds associated with this event. All funds solicited in connection with the 2022 Sunshine Summit and Victory Dinner are being solicited solely by the Republican Party of Florida.
PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP
2022 Primary Election – What you need to know
/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by adminSee the List of Republicans on the Ballot
Check your voter status by clicking here
Things to Do Right Now
Here are a few things you should do right now:
Request a vote-by-mail (VBM) ballot if you will not be in town to vote in person or prefer the convenience of voting from home. You can do it online by answering a few questions and then printing out, signing, and mailing in a form. Or you can request a paper form to fill out from the Supervisor of Elections office by calling (239) 252-8683 or by emailing SupervisorofElections@colliergov.net.
What will be on the ballot?
From the Collier County Supervisor of Elections and Florida Department of State websites, the following offices — if contested — will be on the Collier County primary election ballot:
- U.S. Senate: 1 senator
- U.S. House: representatives for Districts 18, 19, and 26, based on the newly-drawn congressional district in which you live (map here)
- Florida Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer, and Commissioner of Agriculture (elected by all voters statewide)
- State Senate: 1 state senator (all Collier County voters live in the newly-drawn Senate District 28 – map here)
- State House: representatives for Districts 80, 81, and 82, based on the new state House district in which you live (map here)
- County Commission: representatives for Districts 2 and 4, based on the new county commission district in which you live (map here)
- School Board: representatives for Districts 1, 3, and 5 (elected by all voters county-wide)
Other Non-Partisan Races such as Mosquito Control District and Fire Commissioners will be on the November ballot
See the entire list of registered Republican candidates
Judicial Elections
In addition, there will be certain judicial offices on the ballot. Unlike the above positions, the qualifying period for the offices of state attorney, public defender, justices of the Supreme Court, and judges ended on April 29. So we already know which of them will be on the ballot.
Specifically, five incumbent State Supreme Court Justices and eight Second District Court of Appeals judges will be on the ballot for merit retention votes. One Collier County judgeship will also be on the ballot.
Unopposed incumbents who will be considered elected at the General Election are 20th Circuit State Attorney Amira Fox, 20th Circuit Public Defender Kathy Smith, and 20th Circuit Judges Shannon McFee, James Shenko, Nick Thompson, Ramiro Mañalich, Alane Laboda, James Sloan, Kyle Cohen, Lauren Brodie, Robert Branning, and Gilberto Perez.
Details on Voter Schedule
Voter Registration Deadline/Book Closing: July 25
Vote-by-Mail Ballot Mailings: July 9 (UOCAVA)/July 14-August 15 | Ballot Request Deadline: 5 p.m. on August 13
Early Voting: August 13-20 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Election Day: August 23
During the Primary Election, electors will vote for state and federal representatives within their party affiliations. If opposed within their own parties, the Governor, State Cabinet Members, United States Senators, Representatives in Congress, State Representatives, State Senators and County Commissioners will be on the ballot.
The winning candidates of the Primary Election, who see opposition from another party, will then move on to the General Election in November.
Voters may also see non-partisan races including judicial candidates and candidates for school board depending on their jurisdiction.
FLORIDA IS A CLOSED PRIMARY STATE
Florida is a Closed Primary state. This means that only voters who are registered members of a political party may vote for their respective party’s candidates in a Primary Election. Voters without party affiliation are not eligible to vote for party candidates and voters who belong to a minor party can only vote for party candidates if those candidates are on the ballot in accordance with Florida Statute 101.021.
To make changes to their party affiliation, voters must notify the Supervisor of Elections office by completing and signing a new voter registration application form or other signed written notice that contains your date of birth or voter registration number. You cannot change your party at the polling place. To be eligible for a Primary Election, a party change must be made at least 29 days before the Primary Election as addressed in Florida Statute 97.1031.
Universal Primary: a universal primary is a contest in the Primary Election in which all candidates have the same party affiliation, but will not see opposition during the General Election. During a universal primary, all qualified electors may vote regardless of their party affiliation.
