Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up with

Congressman Byron Donalds 

November 15, 2021
 

As our nation continues to live in a post-COVID-19 world that includes access to three vaccines, therapeutics like monoclonal antibodies, and natural immunity from prior infection, we see the growth of another ongoing pandemic: government overreach. This disastrous politized pandemic shuttered businesses, kept our children out of the classroom, and devastated middle America. These same politicians are drunk with power and upping the ante on their reckless and constitutional totalitarianism. Look no further than the lawless actions by President Biden’s egregious and illegal vaccine mandate. My office has heard from countless constituents who fear for their livelihoods and careers as their employer embraces Biden’s mandate and forces employees to take the jab or lose their jobs.  

 

Despite a higher court ruling delaying the administration’s order, Biden and his cohorts in Washington proceed with their lawlessness. This administration’s blatant willingness to ignore the courts is another unconstitutional act by this President and one that shows his careless disregard for our Constitutional Republic. I will continue to do everything in my power to oppose these orders that are forcing people out of a job and on the unemployment line under the government’s control. My stance on the vaccine has never wavered, get vaccinated if you so choose, and if not, you should have the right to choose. I applaud Governor DeSantis and Attorney General Moody for taking charge and challenging this administration’s continued attempt to force the heavy hand of government into the American population’s medical decisions.                   

 

Lastly, the crisis at our southern border continues to unravel, and to date, U.S. Border Patrol agents have apprehended nearly two million illegal immigrants. Another alarming fact on the border is the apprehensions of deadly fentanyl. In 2021, agents have seized more than 11,200 pounds of fentanyl, a 53% increase from last year. Keep in mind; these are apprehensions; while the men and women of the Border Patrol try their best to stop this crisis, the reality is drugs and people are following through the border in areas where the personnel and border wall are not present. Furthermore, Biden and ‘Border Czar’ Harris are spreading the border crisis throughout the country with late-night charter flights inundating American communities with thousands of illegal immigrant minors, including Jacksonville and Tallahassee. Since these revelations, I have led my colleagues to expose this reckless action and demand answers from those perpetuating these radical policies.           

 

For an update on the most pressing legislation on Capitol Hill, events happening in Southwest Florida, and more – continue reading!

 

 
Legislative Updates
 

Socialism is knocking at our door, & Biden’s ‘lack of’ infrastructure bill & tax and spending BBB proposal will unilaterally dismantle the American economy. Low-income families, blue-collar workers, & seniors on fixed incomes are feeling the brunt of Bidenomics.

 

While Americans suffer under the weight of Biden’s policies, and now a 30-year high CPI, this administration continues to act in denial. My full statement is below:

 
President Biden’s federal vaccine mandate is an egregious misuse of power & violates the U.S. Constitution.

 

I’m proud to Co-Sponsor The Freedom From Mandates Act, introduced by my colleague Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) which prohibits the federal govt from coercing Americans into a medical decision against their will. Click the link below for more information on this critical legislation:

 

H.R. 5630 – Freedom From Mandates Act

 
Community Engagement
Last week, I was proud to join VFW Post 10127 in North Fort Myers to personally celebrate & thank a few of our nation’s heroes. The selfless service & sacrifice of our veterans must never be forgotten.

 

To all of those who have served past & present – thank you!

 
 

 
In October, our office opened 157 cases and solved 82 of them. I couldn’t be prouder of the great work of my district staff and all they do to help the people of Southwest Florida.

 

If you need help with a federal agency, please visit my website for more information on how my office can help.

 

Need Help With A Federal Agency?

 
 

 
In The Media

 
 

 
 

 

Last week on ‘Mornings with Maria’ on Fox Business, I joined the program to discuss President Biden’s socialist spending packages, breaking his promises not to raise taxes on the middle class, and how these bills cater to the wealthy elite. Click the link below to watch my interview:

 

Rep. Byron Donalds Joins ‘Mornings with Maria’ on Fox Business

 

 

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

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress

Office Locations
WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE
523 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2536
NAPLES DISTRICT OFFICE
3299 Tamiami Trail East
Suite 105
Naples, FL 34112
(239) 252-6225
LEE COUNTY OFFICE
1039 SE 9th Ave
Suite 308
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 599-6033

RPOF Newsletter – From the desk of Chairman Joe Gruters

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Governor DeSantis, Speaker Chris Sprowls and Senate President Wilton Simpson announced the legislative agenda for the special session of the Florida Legislature that will begin Monday to protect Florida jobs.

“No cop, no firefighter, no nurse, nobody should be losing their job because of these jabs – we must stand up for people and protect their jobs and livelihoods,” Governor DeSantis said. “What the federal government is doing is wrong. It is wrong to kick people out of work; it is wrong to try to micromanage businesses; and it is wrong to deprive key industries of people that we need. Most importantly, what they are doing is unconstitutional and we have a responsibility to stand up for the Constitution and protect Floridians.”

The legislative agenda includes:

Prohibiting private employer COVID-19 vaccine mandates. If employers do have a vaccine policy, they must offer the following exemptions to employees:

  • Employees with health or religious concerns;
  • Pregnant women or women who anticipate pregnancy;
  • Employees who have recovered from COVID-19;
  • Employers must provide all employees the option to choose periodic COVID-19 testing or PPE as an alternative to vaccine requirements at no cost to employees, with test frequency to be determined by the Florida Department of Health.

Employers who violate these employee health protections will be fined $10,000 per employee violation for small businesses of less than 100 employees or $50,000 per employee violation for businesses of more than 100 employees.

Protecting Florida families in schools:

  • Educational institutions may not require students to be COVID-19 vaccinated;
  • School districts may not require students to wear face masks;
  • School districts may not quarantine healthy students;
  • Students and parents may sue violating school districts and recover costs and attorney’s fees.

Speaker Sprowls said: “Authoritarian edicts from the Biden regime stop here. The ‘Keep Florida Free’ agenda represents the strongest response in America against attacks on personal health decisions, livelihoods and liberty.”

Senate President Simpson said: “As a parent and grandparent, I continue to be dismayed at school district bureaucrats who think they know better than parents. Enough is enough. Our legislation to keep Florida free inserts some common-sense and clarity into the chaos we have seen in Washington by giving workers more options to stay safe on the job and honoring the rights and responsibilities of parents.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/08/governor-desantis-joined-by-president-simpson-and-speaker-sprowls-to-announce-legislative-agenda-for-special-session-of-the-florida-legislature/

And here: https://www.flsenate.gov/Media/PressReleases/Show/4054

Florida

Governor DeSantis’ education budget plan for the 2022 legislative session 

Governor DeSantis announced his education budget proposals that will invest record funding in Florida’s public schools. The proposal includes a second consecutive year of $1,000 bonuses for Florida’s teachers and principals; $600 million to raise minimum teacher salaries for the third year in a row from $40,000 to $47,500 over those three years; and the highest per-student funding in Florida’s history at $8,000 per student.

“Since day one, I have been focused on making Florida a leader in education, and I am proud to announce my proposals to invest record funding into our education system over the next year,” Governor DeSantis said. “By continuing to boost teacher pay, give bonuses to principals and teachers, prioritize workforce education, foster a strong civics curriculum, and replace the FSA with progress monitoring, we’re making a significant difference in the lives of our students.”

Here are some of the highlights:

  • A second round of $1,000 bonus checks for 177,000 teachers and principals in Florida. $600 million for teacher pay – a $50 million budget increase over the past year – continuing Florida’s efforts to reach a minimum starting teacher salary of $47,500.
  • An increase in per-student funding to raise this year’s budget to $8,000 per student. This will represent the highest amount of per-student funding in Florida’s history.
  • $421 million for school safety and mental health initiatives. That includes $210 million for the safe schools program – an increase of $30 million over the previous year; $140 million for mental health – a $20 million increase over the previous year; $42 million for school hardening; and $4 million for safety initiatives at Jewish Day Schools.

Governor DeSantis is also proposing three major investments in Florida’s new education programs:

  • Fully eliminate the Florida Standards Assessment and implement progress monitoring in its place, with $15.5 million in recurring funding to provide progress monitoring tools to schools.
  • $500,000 to expand access to the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative into every school district in the 2022-2023 school year, which is in addition to $106 million Governor DeSantis announced earlier this year to provide teacher bonuses for earning a Florida Civics Seal of Excellence.
  • To further efforts to make Florida the number one state for Workforce Education by 2030, $534 million to support workforce education programs is included in the proposed budget. And $100 million is proposed for the Workforce Development Capitalization Grant Program, which will create and expand workforce development programs at Florida’s school districts and state colleges.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/10/governor-desantis-proposes-boosting-teacher-pay-ending-the-fsa-renewing-bonuses-for-principals-and-teachers-and-expanding-workforce-initiatives/

Court victories for parental and workers rights

In yet another victory for parents’ rights, the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings dismissed a case filed by six school districts who have disregarded the will of parents to make decisions for their children.

The Administrative Law Judge ruled that the Florida Department of Health had the legal authority to issue an emergency rule that empowers parents to decide if their children should wear masks at school and ensures healthy students can remain in school. This ruling follows an opinion issued by the First District Court of Appeals on October 29, which stated that School Districts “cannot stand between parents and their lawful right to make decisions on behalf of their children.” The courts are becoming crystal clear that parental rights to make decisions for their children’s health supersede school districts’ policies.

“There is no strong evidence of health benefits for children as a result of mask mandates in schools. The rights of parents continue to be protected in Florida, as we can see by this tremendous decision,” said Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. “Florida will not make decisions out of fear, but rather out of close analysis of the data.”

“When you break the law there are consequences,” said Commissioner Richard Corcoran. “If these districts continue to break the law, we plan to fully hold them accountable.”

Since the ruling Friday, several school districts have withdrawn their mask mandates for children.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/05/the-courts-are-clear-school-districts-must-comply-with-the-law-and-honor-parents-rights/

And here: https://thecapitolist.com/judge-slaps-down-school-board-challenges-to-desantis-ban-on-mask-mandates/

A federal appeals court on Saturday temporarily halted the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate for businesses with 100 or more workers.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted an emergency stay of the requirement by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration that those workers be vaccinated by January 4 or face mask requirements and weekly tests.

Governor DeSantis called a special session of the Florida Legislature starting Monday to pass new laws that would block this unconstitutional overreach by the federal government. (See top story.) This court ruling is a temporary win, but Floridians need laws in place to protect them.

Read more here: https://apnews.com/article/appeals-court-stays-vaccine-mandate-coronavirus-biden-b235b6fa858bd23b02ab5f9c009428db

Florida also filed suit against the Biden administration’s actions.

“We started with 15 days to slow the spread and now it’s get jabbed or lose your job,” Governor DeSantis said. “We’re supposed to be a government of laws, not a government of men. This OSHA rule is 500 pages of a government of bureaucracy, a government that is being run by executive edict, not a government bound by constitutional constraints.”

“The remarkable ease at which this president will abandon the rule of law and separation of powers is astonishing and devastating to the autonomy of American workers,” said Attorney General Ashley Moody. “For this reason, I will take swift legal action to stop this unprecedented overreach by the federal government — to protect Florida and our workers from the unlawful edicts emanating from President Biden and his handlers.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/04/governor-ron-desantis-announces-lawsuit-against-biden-administrations-unconstitutional-osha-employer-vaccine-mandate/

Governor DeSantis announced $481 million for 103 wastewater and springs projects. The projects will improve water quality in water bodies across Florida, reducing total nitrogen loading by a combined 700,000 pounds per year.

“These awards are going to make a big difference for our world-renowned springs and water quality all throughout the state of Florida,” Governor DeSantis said. “Florida’s water resources are what our economy runs on – they are an economic driver, but even apart from that, our environment is really integral to what these communities are all about. We’re blessed to have it and we have a responsibility to leave it better than we found it.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/09/governor-ron-desantis-announces-more-than-481-million-in-awards-to-improve-water-quality-across-the-state/

Governor DeSantis announced the launch of First Lady Casey DeSantis’ statewide anti-drug abuse initiative: The Facts. Your Future. This program directly engages youth in Florida to improve their understanding of the life-altering effects of drug abuse and empowers teens to reach their full potential. Through a series of school assemblies, the program will provide an interactive space for schools to educate their students on the consequential impacts of substance abuse.

“Substance abuse is one the major reasons some of our youth fail to reach their true potential,” Governor DeSantis said. “As the First Lady continues to advocate and support Florida’s youth, this new initiative is another key step to protect and educate our children. We must ensure teens across our state have the tools and knowledge to make good decisions that will positively impact the rest of their lives.”

“The Facts. Your Future empowers Florida students with the facts needed to make informed decisions for their future,” First Lady Casey DeSantis said. “The earlier teens start using drugs, the greater their chances of continuing to use them and developing substance abuse problems later in life.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/05/governor-ron-desantis-announces-launch-of-anti-drug-campaign-to-prevent-substance-abuse-among-florida-youth-spearheaded-by-first-lady-casey-desantis/

​​Washington, D.C.

Val Demings violated federal campaign finance law by fundraising with Terry McAuliffe’s political action committee, “Common Good Virginia,” according to a new complaint filed with the Federal Election Commission by the nonpartisan group Americans for Public Trust.

In October, Val Demings for Senate, a federal campaign committee, sent fundraising solicitations with Common Good Virginia, a non-federal “soft” money PAC.

“These fundraising solicitations, which were paid for by non-federal funds, represent an illegal use of non-federal (or ‘soft’) funds to raise money for a candidate for federal office,” the complaint reads. “As such, Representative Demings’ campaign has accepted an in-kind contribution and thereby violated the federal soft money ban.

“Demings hitched her wagon to one of the biggest opponents of parent involvement in education, and she appears to have broken the law in the process. As Demings said herself, ‘Nobody is above the law.’ Demings and her campaign must comply with any investigation that follows from these claims,” said Elizabeth Gregory, communications director for Marco Rubio for Senate.

ICYMI

Americans have seen enough of the Biden’s unmake America agenda

A USA Today/Suffolk University Poll reveals devastating poll numbers for the Biden/Harris administration. According to reporting from USA Today:

“A year before the 2022 midterm elections, Republicans hold a clear lead on the congressional ballot as President Joe Biden’s approval rating sinks to a new low of 38%.

“A USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll, taken Wednesday through Friday, found that Biden’s support cratered among the independent voters who delivered his margin of victory over President Donald Trump one year ago.”

The poll found that:

  • Nearly half of those surveyed say Biden has done a worse job as president than they expected. Amazingly, Independents, by 7-1 (44%-6%), say he’s done worse than they expected.
  • Nearly two-thirds of Americans, 64%, say they don’t want Biden to run for a second term in 2024. That includes 28% of Democrats.
  • Vice President Kamala Harris’ approval rating has plummeted even further, standing at an embarrassing 28%.
  • Two-thirds of Americans (66%) say the country is on the wrong track; one in five (20%) say it is headed in the right direction.

A new Rasmussen Reports survey found more than half of U.S. voters said recently that they would be less likely to vote for a candidate in their state if that candidate were endorsed by Joe Biden. The survey found that just 27% of respondents reported being more likely to vote for a candidate endorsed by Biden, while 51% reported being less likely to vote for such a candidate.

In fact, Biden’s endorsement would be much less valuable in a state or local election than would be an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, especially with independent voters.

The shocking poll indicates that Biden’s rapidly sinking popularity has now become a political liability for the Democratic Party as a whole and could prove to be a major factor in the upcoming 2022 midterm elections.

Tweets

https://twitter.com/RonDeSantisFL/status/1457735716088205314

https://twitter.com/GovRonDeSantis/status/1457484587169374217

https://twitter.com/marcorubio/status/1458547464647192581

https://twitter.com/FloridaGOP/status/1458439616793559047

https://twitter.com/AGAshleyMoody/status/1458554930055233541

https://twitter.com/JimmyPatronis/status/1458183397055111169

https://twitter.com/teamrondesantis/status/1457819421758607365

https://twitter.com/TeamMarco/status/1458093521362059264?s=20

 

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Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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This week, following the latest Producer Price Index (PPI) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) releases from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Senator Rick Scott again highlighted the need to implement substantive fiscal reforms to end the ongoing inflation crisis fueled by the Biden administration’s reckless tax-and-spend agenda and growing supply chain crisis.

October’s CPI and PPI data shows that there has been a notable increase in inflation every month of Biden’s presidency. Year over year PPI increased 8.6% and CPI increased 6.2% in October, the highest increase of CPI in more than 30 years.

As prices surge higher and gas prices are through the roof, more families on low and fixed-incomes in Florida and across America are being forced to make the impossible choice of either putting a few gallons in the tank or more food on the table. Senator Scott has been fighting against President Biden’s inflation crisis since the start and won’t stop working to stop this reckless agenda.

See more HERE

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

Sen. Rick Scott Recognizes Veterans Day

In honor of Veterans Day, Senator Rick Scott released the following video recognizing and thanking the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As a Navy veteran and the son of a World War II veteran, I know firsthand the sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform and their families. Our veterans are true heroes and it is because of their selfless sacrifice that we are able to enjoy our freedoms. This Veterans Day, let us reflect and honor our American heroes who risk their lives every day to protect our freedoms and our way of life. We owe them endless gratitude for their dedicated service to our great nation. THANK YOU to all those who have served and God bless America.” Watch more in the video HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott Announces Supply Chain Emergency Response Act to Help Alleviate Shipping Bottlenecks

Senator Rick Scott announced his bicameral Supply Chain Emergency Response Act to help alleviate the impacts of President Joe Biden’s disastrous supply chain crisis that is affecting families and small businesses across America. Congressman Carlos Giménez introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. The Supply Chain Emergency Response Act is endorsed by Heritage Action for America.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As empty shelves grow more and more common, prices are surging higher and small businesses can’t access the goods they need to serve their customers. Joe Biden’s supply chain and inflation crises are devastating for so many Americans, but it’s our poorest families, those on low and fixed-incomes like mine growing up, that are hurt the most. Yet, Biden does nothing to help. Unlike the Biden administration, I’m not going to just sit around and play TV commentator. Today, I am proud to partner with my friend and colleague Congressman Giménez in introducing the Supply Chain Emergency Response Act to get products flowing to American families and businesses again. We need to make Washington work for Florida families. Fortunately, Florida’s ports are ready and able to help with this crisis and I hope all of my colleagues work with us to quickly pass this good and urgently needed bill.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Mayorkas Has Lied to Congress & the American People – He Must Resign

In a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Senator Rick Scott again demanded that Secretary Mayorkas resign following him repeatedly lying to both the American people and to Congress while under oath. For months, Secretary Mayorkas has falsely claimed that the southern border is “closed,” despite there being nearly 1.7 million illegal immigrant apprehensions under his failed leadership—the highest number ever on record. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Joe Biden’s Inflation Crisis is Crushing American Families

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the latest Producer Price Index (PPI) release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which showed inflation continued to rise in October increasing 8.6% over the year. This comes one day after the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released a new survey showing Americans’ worries about rising inflation continued to rise for the 12th consecutive month, reaching a new record high. Senator Scott is demanding President Joe Biden address the impact of his reckless spending and unconstitutional mandates which are fueling his inflation crisis and massive supply chain disruptions across America.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I hear it from Florida families every week – they are sick and tired of Joe Biden’s failed policies that are making it harder and harder to put food on the table, gas in the tank and keep a roof over their head. Enough is enough. Joe Biden is a failed president and unfortunately American families are not only seeing his dysfunction, they’re feeling it every day as prices continue to rise. Every month when I see Biden’s new inflation numbers come out, and they’re always worse than the month before, I think about my mom. Growing up, I watched my mom struggle every day just to put food on the table and make ends meet for our family. Now, countless families across America are dealing with that same struggle today all because of Joe Biden’s reckless, socialist policies, like his unconstitutional vaccine mandates, and absent leadership. Nothing Biden and the Democrats are doing helps Florida families and I won’t stop fighting against their disastrous agenda that’s fueling inflation and making life harder for working Americans.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Joe Biden’s Cluelessness Fuels His Raging Inflation Crisis

Following the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Senator Rick Scott released the below statement highlighting the need to implement substantive fiscal reforms to end the ongoing inflation crisis fueled by the Biden administration’s tax-and-spend agenda. October’s CPI data shows that there has been a notable increase in inflation every month of Biden’s presidency. Year over year consumer prices increased 6.2% in October—the highest increase on record since November of 1990.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Every month of Biden’s presidency, inflation has raged higher and prices have increased for hardworking families. His answer? More reckless spending. Gas prices are through the roof, forcing families on low and fixed-income, like mine growing up, to make the impossible choice of either putting a few gallons in the tank or more food on the table. Biden’s answer? Canceling another pipeline. When it comes to helping working American families, President Biden and Democrats in Washington have flown right past sheer incompetence and decided to dive head first into purposeful destruction. You need to look no further than today’s dismal CPI report to see that’s true.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Governors: We Must Hold Biden Accountable, Ensure Transparency on Afghan Resettlements

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter imploring all U.S. Governors to hold President Biden accountable and demand that his administration keep them fully informed on all resettlement operations and vetting intelligence prior to Afghan refugees being resettled in their states. While Governor of Florida, Senator Scott faced a total lack of transparency during the Syrian refugee crisis when the Obama administration repeatedly refused to share information and intelligence regarding refugee resettlements in Florida. As a former governor, Senator Scott is eager to be a partner in Washington for America’s current governors and work together to hold the Biden administration accountable, stop this dangerous secrecy related to refugee resettlements and protect the safety and security of American families. Read more HERE.

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

Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation. This week, following the latest Producer Price Index (PPI) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) releases from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Senator Rick Scott released the below statement highlighting the need to implement substantive fiscal reforms to end the ongoing inflation crisis fueled by the Biden administration’s tax-and-spend agenda. October’s CPI and PPI data shows that there has been a notable increase in inflation every month of Biden’s presidency. Year over year PPI increased 8.6% and CPI increased 6.2% in October, the highest increase on record since November of 1990. Senator Scott is demanding President Joe Biden address the impact of his reckless spending and unconstitutional mandates which are fueling his inflation crisis and massive supply chain disruptions across America. Read more HERE.
WPTV: Sen. Rick Scott holds roundtable meeting with business leaders at Port of Palm Beach

WFLA Radio: Sen. Scott Explains Why He Voted Against Infrastructure Bill

WPLG: Republican Florida leaders slam infrastructure plan

WINK: Senator Rick Scott thanking veterans at a Collier County VFW

Naples Daily News: Collier County honors Veterans Day with ceremonies, salutes and flags

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Sends Letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas Calling on Him to Resign

Telemundo 51: Senador Rick Scott culpa a Biden de los problemas en la cadena de suministros

Miami Diario: Scott responsabiliza a Biden de los problemas en la cadena de suministros

VPI TV: Senador Scott: “A Canciller de la Unión Europea no le importa Venezuela” – Perspectivas
Sen. Rick Scott Recognizes Florida Veterans in Celebration of Veterans Day

In recognition of Veterans Day, Senator Rick Scott joined Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7721 to thank Florida veterans for their service to our nation.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I was glad to join so many American heroes at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7721 in Naples today to recognize their service to our state and nation. I’m a proud Navy veteran and the son of a World War II veteran who was one of the few who did all four combat jumps with the 82nd Airborne. His service and the values he instilled in me inspire me to this day. Our veterans, like my dad, are American heroes who give everything to our nation, making countless sacrifices to protect the freedoms and opportunities of the America we know and love, and ask for nothing in return. Veterans Day serves as an opportunity to reflect and honor those who have served, and say THANK YOU for your service. As United States Senator, I’ll always do everything I can to support and give back to our nation’s veterans.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott, Congressman Carlos Gimenez Present Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery to Miami-Dade Police Lt. Benny Solis

Senator Rick Scott joined Congressman Carlos Gimenez to present the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery to Lieutenant Benny Solis of the Miami-Dade Police Department. In 2019, Lieutenant Solis’ heroic actions and quick thinking distracted an armed, wanted suspect and helped save the lives of his fellow officers and others. Last year, Lieutenant Solis was recognized as the 2020 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Florida Sheriffs Association for his selfless actions.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Every day, law enforcement officers across Florida are placed in dangerous situations where they show unmatched bravery and selflessly put their own lives on the line to save others and protect our communities. Today, I had the honor of recognizing a great example of this bravery in of one of Florida’s own law enforcement officers, Miami-Dade Police Lieutenant Benny Solis and present him with the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery. Lieutenant Solis’ quick thinking and brave actions to diffuse a dangerous situation undoubtedly saved lives. I’m incredibly grateful for the service of Lieutenant Solis and all of our hardworking law enforcement, and will always support their tireless efforts to make our nation the safe America we know and love.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Recognizes 50th Anniversary of Versailles in Miami

Senator Rick Scott recognized the 50th anniversary of Versailles, “The World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant,” in Miami with a resolution he introduced in the United States Senate. Senator Marco Rubio cosponsored the resolution. Over the past 50 years, Versailles has become an icon in South Florida’s Cuban community and remains an invaluable part of the incredible Cuban-American culture in Miami and throughout the state.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I have been honored to visit Versailles many times over the years, but today is particularly special. Fifty years ago, Versailles was founded by Felipe Valls Sr., a Cuban immigrant who, scarred by the oppression of the communist Cuban regime, came to the United States hopeful for a new life. His dreams have certainly been achieved. I am so proud to be in Miami today to present a resolution commending Versailles on its 50th anniversary and decades of hard work and service to the people of Miami and its countless visitors. Versailles is more than just a restaurant, it’s an icon in the Cuban community, an invaluable part of our culture and a true testament that the American dream is alive and well.” Read more HERE and in Spanish HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Holds Roundtable on Biden’s Supply Chain Crisis with Palm Beach Port and Business Leaders

Senator Rick Scott held a roundtable meeting with port, business and retail leaders at the Port of Palm Beach to discuss the Biden administration’s disastrous policies and socialist agenda that have created massive supply chain challenges, as well as discuss what solutions can be implemented to help working families in Florida and across America. Read more HERE.
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Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040
KISSIMMEE 
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 586-7879		 PENSACOLA 
221 Palafox Place, Suite 420
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 760-5151		 MIAMI 
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141
NAPLES
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890		 JACKSONVILLE
400 West Bay Street, Suite 289
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 479-7227		 ORLANDO
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161
  WASHINGTON, D.C.
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274		  
  Fax: (202) 228-4535  

RPOF Newsletter – Chairmans message

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Chairman’s Message

Huge Election Day


Republicans thump Democrats in Florida and nationwide

Voters in Florida and across the nation soundly rejected the freedom-stealing, open-border, America-last agenda of the Democrats and the Biden administration during Tuesday’s off-year elections. Governor DeSantis described Tuesday as a wave building for 2022 that will be bigger than 2010.

Republicans in Florida won several key municipal races across the state, including multiple mayoral contests such as Steve Bovo in Hialeah.

In Virginia, a blue state that went for Biden by 10 points just one year ago, Republican Glenn Youngkin defeated long-time Democrat establishment figure Terry McCauliffe for governor. Republicans swept all the statewide races in Virginia and flipped the state house. And the Republican challenger shockingly came within a whisker of winning the governor’s race in New Jersey, which went for Biden by 16 points.

Republicans also flipped seats in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Texas and New Hampshire.

It was a very good night and portends well for slamming the door on the Democrats’ radical agenda.

 

Election integrity set for the 2022 Legislative Session  

Governor DeSantis announced a new legislative proposal Wednesday for the 2022 session that begins in January that will further strengthen Florida’s election integrity.

“We are excited to say that next legislative session we are proposing another package of election integrity reforms that will make Florida the number one state for elections,” Governor DeSantis said. “I am excited that with this legislation, our state will be able to enforce election violations, combat voter fraud and make sure violators are held accountable. If potential violators know they will be held accountable, they will be much less likely to engage in improper conduct in the first place.”

Governor DeSantis called on the Legislature to take four additional steps to safeguard our elections:

  • Establish an Office of Election Crimes and Security within the Department of State to investigate election crimes and fraud;
  • Elevate the crime of ballot harvesting to a third-degree felony, recognizing that this offense is a serious attack on democracy;
  • Require timelines for supervisors of elections to clean the voter rolls of ineligible voters; and
  • Prohibit unsecure drop box locations in Florida.

 

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/03/governor-ron-desantis-announces-legislative-proposal-to-protect-floridas-election-integrity/

Watch the Governor’s press conference here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=1614182528931181

 

“A recession is when your neighbor loses his job; a depression is when you lose yours; a recovery is when Dr. Fauci loses his.” – Governor DeSantis

Special Session Update:
Protections against vaccine status discrimination

Governor DeSantis announced that the Special Session to provide protections for Floridians who could lose their jobs due to vaccine mandates will begin on November 15, 2021, and go no later than November 19, 2021.

“Your right to earn a living should not be contingent upon COVID shots,” Governor DeSantis said. “We have somehow gone from 15 days to slow the spread to 3 jabs to keep your job. In Florida, we believe that the decision whether or not to get a COVID shot is a choice based on individual circumstances, so we are litigating against the Biden Administration and will be passing legislation in this Special Session to protect Florida jobs and protect parents’ rights when it comes to masking and quarantines.”

He added: “The health, education, and wellbeing of our children are primarily the responsibility of parents. As long as I am Governor, parents in Florida will play a strong role in determining what their kids are learning and how they’re treated in school.”

Here are some of the elements Governor DeSantis is calling on the Legislature to consider in the Special Session:

  • Protect employees against unfair discrimination on the basis of COVID-19 vaccination status and ensure robust enforcement for this protection;
  • Ensure that educational institutions and government entities are prohibited from unfairly discriminating against employees, students, and residents on the basis of COVID-19 vaccination status;
  • Clarify that the Parents’ Bill of Rights, Chapter 1014, Florida Statutes, vests the decision on masking with parents, not government entities, and that schools must comply with Department of Health rules that govern student health, including rules that ensure healthy students can remain in school;
  • Repeal the authority for the State Health Officer to order forced injections or vaccinations under Section 381.00315, Florida Statutes, originally enacted in 2002; and

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/29/governor-ron-desantis-announces-date-of-special-session-to-protect-florida-jobs/

Florida

Less than a week after Governor DeSantis announced Florida is suing the Biden Administration for unlawfully requiring mandatory injections for federal contractors, the Biden Administration quietly updated its guidance.

“The backtracking by the Biden administration demonstrates that Florida has been right to stand up for people’s jobs and against federal overreach,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We are continuing to fight for Floridians. This edict from the Biden Administration is creating chaos for both workers and businesses, as well as putting livelihoods at risk. In Florida, your right to earn a living should not be contingent upon COVID shots. Federal contractors in Florida should suspend their threats of termination over the Biden mandate.”

Governor DeSantis and Attorney General Ashley Moody announced the lawsuit last week against the Biden Administration’s order requiring employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated by December 8, making Florida the first state to bring a comprehensive legal action against the federal contractor vaccine mandate. The lawsuit seeks an immediate end to the unlawful requirement that federal contractors ensure that all employees have received a mandated injection. The lawsuit can be found here.

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Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/02/governor-ron-desantis-continues-fight-against-federal-contractor-mandates-following-biden-backpedaling/

Governor DeSantis announced $6 million for the City of Tavares to build a regional workforce training and innovation center in partnership with Lake Technical College. While Lake Technical College currently can enroll 16 students in its programs for diesel systems technology, automotive services, and automotive collision, this new center will allow the college to triple its enrollment to 48 students. This will help Florida meet the demand of more than 67,000 new openings in these occupations over the next eight years.

Governor DeSantis has been focused on making Florida the best state in the nation for workforce education by 2030. This year, Governor DeSantis has awarded more than $20 million for workforce training initiatives in Florida. While these are creating immediate jobs, they are also creating skilled workers that are combating the nation’s supply chain crisis.

“In Florida, we are stepping up in the midst of the nation’s supply chain woes. Our ports are open and have capacity, we are standing up for businesses, and we are continuing to support the supply chain by training skilled workers across our state,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/29/governor-ron-desantis-announces-6-million-award-for-workforce-education-programs-at-lake-technical-college-through-the-florida-job-growth-grant-fund/

Washington, D.C.

Newsmax reported Senator Marco Rubio’s stinging denunciation of the Biden Administration.

“Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, ridiculed the deviations between then-candidate and now-President Joe Biden, explaining to the National Conservatism Conference on Monday that the reasons for the difference are – if expressed during the campaign – he would not have been elected.

“‘I think it’s telling that the agenda promoted by the candidate Joe Biden is very different from the one that’s being pushed by President Joe Biden,’” Rubio said via a livestream video conference to the three-day gathering in Orlando, Florida.

“‘Candidate Joe Biden, for example, promised a return of competency and professionalism;  President Joe Biden delivered chaos: Historic calamity on the southern border, humiliating and deadly debacle in Afghanistan, stranded cargo ships off the coast of California, and the skyrocketing prices of literally everything.’”

“Rubio was slated to join in person but was affected by the ongoing American Airlines flight cancellations.

“He began declaring Biden is governing differently than he campaigned because he knew from the outset his actual ideas were unpopular with the majority of ordinary Americans – as opposed to those managing society on a day-to-day basis.

“‘The problem is they have power beyond the numbers,’” Rubio said. “‘They happen to be the people who run our schools and our universities, our tech companies, our large corporations, meetings, boards, the entertainment industry; they are the most generous donors and enthusiastic activists in one of our two major political parties.’”

Read more here: https://www.newsmax.com/us/conservative-conference-florida-candidate/2021/11/01/id/1042863/

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Seeing the shocking results in Tuesday’s elections in Virginia, New Jersey, Florida and elsewhere, Senator Marco Rubio tweeted this truism:

“364 days a year a powerful minority tells everyone what they are allowed to believe, do and say. And Election Day is the day the normal majority tells them they are crazy.”

ICYMI

 

The New York Post recently published a column titled:

The country needs a dose of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to battle COVID-19

“Florida has the lowest COVID-19 case rate in the country. They did it without vaccine mandates, without mask mandates in school and with no restrictions on businesses. Life simply went on.

“Over the summer, when Florida was experiencing a spike in cases, the media was wall-to-wall news about the numbers. Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis was a frequent target for the blame. His sensible moves, such as not forcing low-risk kids to wear masks, was treated as akin to murder by the media.

“In August, President Biden criticized DeSantis, although not by name, saying: “Some state officials are passing laws that forbid people from doing the right thing. I say to the governors, please help. If you’re not going to help, get out of the way of the people that are trying to do the right thing.”

“But what DeSantis understood is that there is no absolute “right thing” where COVID-19 is concerned, that we are living in an endemic (no longer a pandemic thanks to vaccines) and that there is very little political action that can be implemented to stop it. At the time of Florida’s spike, the state had an above-average vaccination rate when compared with the rest of the country. They weren’t doing anything differently than places with lower case rates, they were simply at the peak of their seasonal spike.

“Florida is doing better in per-capita cases and deaths from COVID than states that put in universal mask mandates and lockdowns. But you won’t hear that from the media. Now that DeSantis’ strategy has worked, they have quietly moved on without acknowledging their predictions of doom were wrong.

“It’s a lesson that we need to quickly learn. Encouraging vaccination is important, but ultimately COVID will be something we need to handle with less hysteria going forward, and DeSantis has been a model for that.”

Read the entire column here: https://nypost.com/2021/10/28/florida-gov-ron-desantis-has-shown-how-to-handle-covid-19/

Social Media Highlights

 

REMEMBER: @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen.
PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE.WWW.FLORIDA.GOP
 

Governor DeSantis Introduces Election Integrity Plans

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PALM BEACH – Today, Governor DeSantis introduced new policy items he hopes to pass in the upcoming legislative session to further secure Florida’s elections.

“A recession is when your neighbor loses his job; a depression is when you lose yours; a recovery is when Dr. Fauci loses his.”

His proposal outlines 4 primary prongs to help strengthen Florida’s election integrity:

  • Establish an investigative unit to investigate election crimes and reports of fraud;
  • Elevate the crime of ballot harvesting to a third-degree felony;
  • Establish a timeline for local supervisors of elections to clean the voter rolls;
  • Secure locations for Florida’s drop boxes

 

Governor DeSantis also embraced the “Let’s Go Brandon” frenzy, dubbing Joe Biden’s administration the “Brandon administration.”

“If you look at all the things that are going on and you see Big Tech, corporate media. If you look at what’s going on with some of the big corporations with their woke agenda. If you look at the Biden, or Brandon administration in terms of what they’re doing…bottom line is, we’ve got a lot of things that we’re facing. We’ve now seen after Virginia that people are willing to fight back. You know I’m willing to fight back.”

Florida’s DeSantis dubs Biden admin the ‘Brandon administration’

 

“What we need now more than ever, with all the stuff that’s going on, we need people to stand for the right things. They need to stand up and they need to display courage and backbone and not back down in the face of all the things we need to deal with.”

#
PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP
Paid political advertisement paid for by the Republican Party of Florida, 420 East Jefferson St., Tallahassee, Florida 32301.

Republican Party of Florida, 420 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32301.

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review 10/30/21

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

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

See more HERE

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

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

As the rights of parents are under attack by the Biden administration, Senator Rick Scott, joined by Leader Mitch McConnell, U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee Ranking Member Richard Burr and nearly thirty other Republican senators introduced a resolutionsupporting parents’ rights to be fully and actively involved in the education of their children. Recently, Joe Biden and his administration have politicized and weaponized the Justice Department, threatening to use federal law enforcement resources to intimidate and silence parents who speak out to protect their children from harmful curricula like critical race theory that’s being pushed by Biden and the far-left. Biden’s dangerous tactics are a clear violation on parents’ rights of free speech and the right to have a say in their child’s education.

This resolution is also cosponsored by Senators John Barrasso, Marsha Blackburn, John Boozman, Mike Braun, John Cornyn, Tom Cotton, Kevin Cramer, Mike Crapo, Joni Ernst, Deb Fischer, Lindsey Graham, Chuck Grassley, Josh Hawley, John Hoeven, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jim Inhofe, Ron Johnson, John Kennedy, James Lankford, Mike Lee, Cynthia Lummis, Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, James Risch, Marco Rubio, Tim Scott, Thom Tillis, Tommy Tuberville, and Roger Wicker.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Democrats’ war on parents is disgusting. As a proud father of two, and grandfather to seven, it makes me furious to hear people say that the government knows better than a mom or dad when it comes to the education of their child. That’s why today I am proud to have Leader McConnell, Ranking Member Burr and nearly thirty other Republican senators join me in introducing a simple resolution supporting parents’ rights to be engaged and have a say in their child’s education. It’s not controversial or radical to say that we support the right of parents to be the leading voices in the education of their children. And it’s not controversial or radical to expect teachers, schools and school districts to regularly engage parents in constructive and open dialogue about school policies, curriculum, and instructional materials – and to LISTEN to their feedback. Moms and dads know what is best for their children, and it is a great thing when they get involved. We won’t let the Democrats use their radical, socialist agenda to drive parents out of education and replace them with the failed ideas of big government.” Read more HERE.

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

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

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

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

As energy prices across America surge higher, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to request unanimous consent on his Give Americans Stability at Pumps as Rising Inflation Causes Emergencies (GAS PRICE) Act. This simple legislation, cosponsored by Senators Roger Marshall, Cynthia Lummis, Shelley Moore Capito, Ron Johnson, Jerry Moran and Marsha Blackburn, would direct the Energy Information Administration (EIA) to report to Congress any policy or rule set by the Biden administration which raises energy costs for American families. Senate Democrats blocked its passage.

Reports from the EIA have shown that prices on energy, like gasoline, have increased 55% in just one year, and it is predicted that this winter, home heating prices are going to rise by more than 40% for homes that use heating oil, more than 30% for homes using natural gas, and 54% for homes using propane.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Just this week, the South Florida Sun Sentinel ran a story with the headline, ‘Gas Prices hit their highest level since 2014. When will we get a break?’ As gas prices keep rising, the message from Florida couldn’t be more clear. But this is about more than just headlines. These skyrocketing prices are hurting real families who are living paycheck to paycheck, and struggling to keep up. I grew up poor. When my parents’ bills went up, it made it more difficult on my family. When gas prices went up, it meant we had less food to put on the table.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Cynthia Lummis, John Barrasso, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Marsha Blackburn, Mike Rounds and Roger Marshall to introduce the Having Employees Return to Duty (HERD) Act of 2021. This bill would require federal employees to return to their duty station and the hours they were working prior to the COVID-19 pandemic to help citizens across the country who are currently being underserved by federal agencies due to remote work and a backlog of casework issues.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’ve heard from families across Florida who are facing issues due to backlogs at federal agencies. Americans everywhere are expected to go to work each day and are able to do so safely – the federal government shouldn’t be any different. We must get the government back to work for the American people and I hope all of my colleagues will support this good bill.” Read more from Senator Lummis’ office HERE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

National Review: Exclusive: Congressional Republicans Affirm That There Is No International Right to Abortion

Jerusalem Post: GOP bill seeks to stop Jerusalem consulate for Palestinians

Taipei Times: Invite Taiwan to summit: US’ Scott

Breitbart: Report: 129 Republicans Demand 11 Biden Admin Officials Resign

Jerusalem Post: Senate GOP bill seeks to block Jerusalem consulate reopening

WKMG: Senators call for new zip codes for Ocoee, Oakland in bill

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Calls on Airline Industry to Resist Mandatory Vaccinations

Florida Daily: Rick Scott to HHS Inspector General: American Families Demand Answers on COVID-19 Origins

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants to Know if State Department is Investigating Pan American Health Organization

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Introduces the Extending Limits of U.S. Customs Waters Act With Kyrsten Sinema’s Support

Florida Daily: Marco Rubio, Rick Scott Want New Zip Codes in Florida

Florida Daily: Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, Michael Waltz Continue Efforts to Change Water Quality Allocation to the States
Senator Scott has received his COVID-19 vaccine, and he encourages everyone consider doing the same. The COVID-19 vaccine works and is critical to ending the pandemic and saving lives.

For more information and to find out where you can get the shot, visit floridahealthcovid19.gov/vaccines.
TALLAHASSEE
111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 942-8415		 WEST PALM BEACH 
415 Clematis Street, Suite 201
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 514-0189		 TAMPA
801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040
KISSIMMEE 
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 586-7879		 PENSACOLA 
221 Palafox Place, Suite 420
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 760-5151		 MIAMI 
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141
NAPLES
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890		 JACKSONVILLE
400 West Bay Street, Suite 289
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 479-7227		 ORLANDO
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161
  WASHINGTON, D.C.
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274		  
  Fax: (202) 228-4535

RPOF Newsletter – Chairman Joe Gruter’s Message

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Chairman’s Message

Florida job growth soars. Covid cases plummet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/22/floridas-september-job-growth-rate-is-three-times-faster-than-the-nation/

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/25/governor-ron-desantis-highlights-florida-leading-the-nations-job-growth/

Read more: https://news.yahoo.com/florida-now-has-americas-lowest-covid-rate-does-ron-de-santis-deserve-credit-090013615.html

 

FLORIDA

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

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

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

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

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

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/28/governor-ron-desantis-announces-lawsuit-against-biden-administrations-unconstitutional-vaccine-mandates/

And here: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/florida-biden-lawsuit-covid-vaccine-mandates-federal-contractors

Watch the full press conference here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=337652531454633

Read the lawsuit here: https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/047123627394.pdf

 

WASHINGTON, D.C.

With Congress back in session, Val Demings radicalness is impossible to hide. She is in lock-step with the most extremist members of Congress, such as the socialist Squad, and out of touch with Floridians by supporting every penny of the full-fledged $3.5 trillion socialist spending spree.

In joining fellow radicals to push this budget, Demings is supporting 40 separate tax increases that would take $2 trillion out of Americans’ pockets. In addition to tax hikes on Florida families, the socialist spending spree paves the way for the Green New Deal, amnesty for illegal immigrants, and taxpayer-funded abortion.

Demings is trying to unseat Senator Marco Rubio, who released a great ad highlighting how radical his opponent is, voting with the Squad 94 percent of the time.

Watch the Rubio ad here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ccc2oKnGBG8

 

ICYMI

What they’re saying about Governor DeSantis calling for a Special Session

Business owners and industry leaders from around the state applauded Governor DeSantis’ call for a Special Session of the Florida Legislature last week to protect Florida employees from unconstitutional vaccine mandates and vaccine passports.

Here is what they are saying:

Ralph A. Lewis, Co-Owner of Florida’s oldest steakhouse, Okeechobee Steakhouse, said: “Without Governor DeSantis holding his ground and making decisions based on scientific facts, our loss of business would be catastrophic. From the staff of Okeechobee Steakhouse and Okeechobee Prime Meat Market, thank you, Governor DeSantis, for allowing us to keep our jobs.”

Charles Musgrove, Jr., CPA and Founder of CAPSERV360, said: “Thank you to Governor DeSantis for standing in the breach to protect our liberties. I have never been prouder to be a Floridian than over the past 18 months. Your leadership is inspirational for all Americans and an example for all political leaders whether local, state, or federal.”

Nick Sarra, Chief Operations Officer of Saltwater Restaurants, said: “Allowing customers to freely dine without mandated vaccine passports has allowed us to continue to employ hundreds of workers in our nine restaurants across Northwest Florida. Placing our employees on the front line of our customers’ medical decisions is not their responsibility as professionals in the restaurant industry. We are grateful for Governor Ron DeSantis’ strong support of restaurants and our employees.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/22/what-they-are-saying-businesses-applaud-governor-desantis-protecting-floridians-jobs-and-livelihoods/

 

Social Media Highlights

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Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up with

Congressman Byron Donalds

October 25, 2021
 
 

This past week in Congress, instead of working to find solutions for the national labor shortage, supply chain crisis, rising inflation, or the worsening border crisis – Speaker Pelosi instead called members back to Washington, D.C. to unsuccessfully rally support for her radical agenda. 

 

Abiding by his constitutional requirement to testify in front of Congress, Attorney General Merrick Garland appeared in front of the House Judiciary Committee this past week to discuss a wide range of issues. Most notably his weaponizing of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to target concerned parents who oppose the implementation of Critical Race Theory in their child’s curriculum. Attorney General Garland weaponizing the DOJ, an agency intended to serve as a non-partisan agency to seek equality and justice under the law, being used to intimidate law-abiding parents without legal basis will not stand. Parents belong in education, not the FBI. 

 

The Hyde Amendment, an amendment that has had bipartisan support since its inception in 1976, has been cut from Biden’s budget. The Hyde Amendment prohibits federal taxpayer dollars from funding abortions. This legislation has saved over 2.5 million lives from abortion, and today’s progressive Democrat Party wants to end this lifesaving amendment. It’s time to tell the radical Democrats in DC that taxpayer dollars should never fund abortions.

 

Lastly, the crisis occurring at our southern border continues to reach new heights. During the 2021 Fiscal Year, Border Patrol agents have now apprehended 1.7 illegal immigrants. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is now warning Americans that they expect roughly 400,000 illegal border crossings during the month of October. As the severity of this crisis rapidly worsens, our President continues to take another vacation to his Delaware home. Along with his absent leadership on the border crisis, Joe Biden is also attempting to sneak in mass amnesty for up to 10 million illegal immigrants, leaving the American taxpayers with the $100 billion burden. 

 

Every day that the border remains open and vulnerable, our national security is at risk. President Biden, it’s time to Build The Wall! 

 

For a continued update on legislation out of Capitol Hill, the latest on what’s happening on the House floor, and more, keep reading! 

 

 

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Legislative Updates
 
This past week, I spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives of the radical reconciliation package that includes a $100 billion provision that provides a pathway to amnesty for 10 million illegal immigrants.

 

This provision endangers our country, further escalates the border crisis, and fails to protect our national security. Watch my full speech below:

 

 

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This past week, the House Committee on Small Business held a hearing on global supply chains amidst the national worker shortage that our economy is currently facing. In this committee hearing, I discussed the economic consequences that stem from extended federal unemployment benefits and the supply chain crisis that we are currently facing. Watch my remarks below:

 

Rep. Byron Donalds – Supply Chain Labor Shortage

 
On the House floor last week, I spoke on the very real economic dangers that will arise from Biden’s multi-trillion-dollar Build Back Better Act. Watch my full remarks below:

 

 

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In the Media
 
Last week, I had the opportunity join NBC’s Meet the Press Reports with Chuck Todd to discuss the ongoing textbook wars and the dangers of implementing Critical Race Theory in our schools.

 

Watch a segment of the feature interview below:

 

 

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On Saturday, I had the pleasure of joining ‘The Unfilteredwith Dan Bongino’ on Fox News to discuss Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to ban vaccine mandates in Florida, New York’s rising COVID numbers, and Biden’s ongoing border crisis.

 

Watch the interview below:

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

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress
 

Office Locations
 
WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE
523 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2536
NAPLES DISTRICT OFFICE
3299 Tamiami Trail East
Suite 105
Naples, FL 34112
(239) 252-6225
LEE COUNTY OFFICE
1039 SE 9th Ave
Suite 308
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 599-6033