RPOF Newsletter

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Governor’s Budget Puts Freedom First

Governor DeSantis released his Freedom First Budget proposal today, which totals $99.7 billion, with reserves exceeding $15 billion. That puts the budget at $2 billion less than last year’s budget.

The Freedom First Budget focuses on preserving freedom and prosperity for Floridians with record funding for education, environmental resources and law enforcement. The budget also protects freedom and liberty by once again rejecting mandates and lockdowns.

“In Florida, we have put Freedom First – protecting Floridians’ freedom to earn a living, to operate businesses and to choose educational options tailored for their children,” Governor DeSantis said. “As a result of our commitment to freedom, Florida’s economy continues to thrive and Floridians are better able to provide for their families…This budget puts Floridians and their freedoms first, keeps taxes low, and addresses key priorities – all while maintaining record budget reserves.”

Economic Freedom

The Governor’s budget gives Floridians the freedom to use their incomes to provide for their families, not grow government. The Freedom First budget recommends tax holidays, including a Fuel Tax Holiday to provide a reprieve from increasing gas prices and save Florida Families over $1 billion.

Florida’s economy has grown faster than the nation as a result of smart investments and policies that kept Florida open and businesses operating. Investments in rural communities and the tourism industry give Florida communities the freedom to elevate their regions for decades to come. So the Freedom First Budget includes:

  • $105 million, an increase of $100 million over the current year, for the Rural Infrastructure Fund to support local rural infrastructure projects such as roads, storm, wastewater systems, and internet access for rural communities.
  • $100 million for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to support projects that create workforce training opportunities and invest in critical infrastructure.
  • $50 million in recurring funding for Visit Florida, Florida’s tourism marketing agency.

Investments in highways, bridges and ports give Floridians the freedom to open and operate businesses, knowing that their goods will swiftly travel through our ports and on our roads. The budget provides $9.27 billion for the State Transportation Work Program.

The Freedom First Budget invests $25 million to maintain and restore the Freedom Tower, to ensure that the Freedom Tower continues to be a beacon of freedom and serve as a symbol of the democratic values we hold dear.

Education Freedom and Teacher Support

The Governor believes that children have a right to learn in positive learning environments and parental rights need to be preserved in making educational decisions for their children. Governor DeSantis is proposing record funding for K-12 education and prioritizes teachers and students. Included in the Freedom First Budget are:

  • A second round of $1,000 bonus checks for approximately 179,000 teachers and principals in Florida. He is also proposing $600 million – a $50 million budget increase over the past year – for teacher pay, continuing Florida’s efforts to reach a minimum 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.
    To fully eliminate the Florida Standards Assessment and implement progress monitoring in its place, Governor DeSantis is proposing $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.
  • To make Florida the number one state for Workforce Education by 2030, $534 million in funding to support workforce education programs is included in the proposed budget.

For Those Who Protect Our Freedom

Florida supports first responders and service members who protect our freedom. Due to the hard work of Florida’s law enforcement officers, our crime rate decreased last year, marking the 50th consecutive year the state has seen a drop in its crime rate.

While other states want to defund the police, in Florida, our Freedom First Budget backs the blue, and includes:

  • $226.7 million to provide salary increases for those working in public safety – including 25% raises for all veteran state sworn law enforcement and 20% salary increases for entry-level state sworn law enforcement.
  • A $5,000 signing bonus for every recruit who is new to the law enforcement profession in Florida once they complete their training and they officially become a law enforcement officer.
  • Providing the State Officer Certification Exam free of charge to law enforcement officers relocating to Florida and covering the cost of any necessary equivalent training programs for relocating officers, up to $1,000 per officer.
  • Creating a law enforcement academy scholarship program to cover the cost of enrollment for men and women seeking to serve their state and communities through police work.

Florida is also committed to supporting those who serve. Our National Guard has been called upon time and time again during times of emergency, and we must ensure they are ready to serve Floridians. Governor DeSantis is proposing more than $100 million for our National Guard.
The Freedom First Budget also includes $8 million to implement a program to protect against harms from illegal immigration, and $2.4 million in E-Verify enforcement.

Environmental Protection

Florida’s natural resources are the foundation of our state’s communities. The environment drives tourism, affects property values, anchors many local economies and is central to our quality of life. The Freedom First Budget reaffirms Governor DeSantis’ commitment by recommending more than $4.4 billion to protect our environment and natural resources.

The Freedom First Budget proposes more than $980 million to restore the Everglades, fight Red Tide and protect Florida’s water resources. This would bring Florida’s four-year investment to $3 billion, surpassing our goal of $2.5 billion and doubling the investment of the previous four years. The budget also invests over $550 million to increase the resiliency of Florida’s coastal and inland communities and more than $151.7 million to protect our prized properties and waters in Florida.

Health Care Support

The COVID-19 pandemic has continued to have unforeseen consequences for workers. Florida is placing freedom above heavy-handed vaccination mandates and Faucism.

To support health care freedom and protect Floridians as they make their own health care choices, the Freedom First Budget includes:

  • More than $200 million in funding to support direct care workers with pay raises.
  • $100 million – a $37 million increase – for cancer research.
  • $15 million, an increase of $10 million over the current year, in funding for Alzheimer’s Disease research to enhance diagnosis and prevention strategies for those Floridians impacted by this disease.
  • $188.6 million in behavioral health initiatives including mental health and substance abuse services to ensure Floridians get the help that they need.
  • $133 million to provide services to those served by the child welfare system, including foster parent support and adoption subsidies, including.

Read full budget here: http://www.floridaleadsbudget.com/PDFLoader.htm?file=OverView.pdf

Republicans lead on flood resiliency

Governor DeSantis and Republican legislative leaders are proactively pursuing a bold agenda on sea-level rise with the creation of a first-ever statewide plan to protect Florida’s coastal and inland communities.

The Florida Statewide Flooding Resilience Plan announced this week consists of a range of projects that will enhance Florida’s efforts to protect inland waterways, coastlines, shores, and coral reefs — which are invaluable natural defenses against sea-level rise and flooding.

The plan is part of Senate Bill 1954, signed by Governor DeSantis earlier this year, which ensures a coordinated approach to the resiliency of Florida’s coastal and inland regions, and provides a structure for ongoing resilience following the best science and data. This strategy will enhance the protection of inland and coastal resources that act as natural defenses against sea-level rise.

“We have done a lot to support Florida water resources and we know infrastructure for clean and strong waterways is important,” Governor DeSantis said. “We also want to fortify infrastructure to make communities across Florida more resilient. We are a low-lying state, a storm prone state, and a flood prone state.”

In the previous legislative session, Governor DeSantis worked with Speaker Chris Sprowls, President Wilton Simpson and the rest of the Legislature to create a pathway to protect Florida communities and the state’s economic livelihood. Under that legislation, Governor DeSantis is now proposing 76 projects totaling more than $270 million across Florida, which will be matched by local investments as part of a three-year plan to strengthen community-identified vulnerabilities.

“With our ‘Always Ready’ legislation signed into law and the first preliminary plan delivered today, Florida is going to be strategic, proactive and a leader among all other states in our response,” said House Speaker Chris Sprowls.”

“Strategic planning and key investments made today will have a tremendous benefit for future generations of Floridians,” said Senate President Wilton Simpson.

The current 2021-2022 budget includes $640 million — the most significant investment in the state’s history — to ensure Florida’s communities are prepared to deal with the impacts of sea-level rise, intensified storms, and flooding.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/12/08/governor-ron-desantis-announces-first-ever-statewide-flooding-resilience-plan/

The complete list of projects is here:https://protectingfloridatogether.gov/sites/default/files/documents/RF%20statewide%20plan%20PFT[2].pdf

Governor DeSantis blasts businesses with double standard on masking

Governor DeSantis criticized businesses earlier this week for requiring staff to wear masks while patrons move about mask-free, saying that it created a symbolic “two-tiered society” where the “servant class” goes around with their faces covered while the served class does not.

“Let these folks breathe,” Governor DeSantis said. “Let them make their own decisions on this because I think it’s terribly uncomfortable that they’re in this for so many hours a day and I don’t think it’s proven to make a difference.”

The Governor has been consistent in opposing mask mandates, including those that are not equally applied, along with vaccine mandates.

“I think it’s like a two-tiered society,” DeSantis said. “They’re trying to have a servant class that has to always do all this. But yet the other class, they can lecture you about wearing masks, but then they don’t wear masks themselves. That’s wrong.”

Read more here: https://floridapolitics.com/archives/478334-let-these-folks-breathe-gov-desantis-urges-businesses-to-unmask-employees/

 

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Florida

Governor’s plan for increasing cancer research

Governor DeSantis is recommending $100 million for cancer research and care in next year’s budget, an increase of $37 million, or nearly 60%, over prior year funding. The funding will be used to forward cancer care and research at three cancer institutes in Florida — Moffitt Cancer Center, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and University of Florida Health Cancer Center.

First Lady Casey DeSantis announced Governor DeSantis’ recommendation this week at a roundtable at Moffitt.

“Florida offers some of the best cancer care and research in the nation, and I’m proud that we are proposing historic investments in our leading cancer centers,” First Lady Casey DeSantis said. “The Governor and I are committed to helping cancer patients through innovative research and high-quality care. While we increase this important funding, I also urge Floridians to go through appropriate cancer screenings. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in our state and now is not the time to delay care.”

First Lady DeSantis was joined by Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo and representatives from the center.

“Florida’s cancer institutes are critical in providing treatment that saves the lives of patients with cancer,” said Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. “This funding will also continue supporting advancements in cancer research and treatments that can potentially lead to new cures.”

This funding will greatly benefit Florida’s three homegrown cancer centers — Moffitt, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami and UF Health Cancer Center. It will enable these institutions to recruit the best and brightest from around the world.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/12/08/first-lady-casey-desantis-announces-100-million-proposal-for-cancer-research-and-care-in-florida/

View the full roundtable https://rumble.com/vqdy1t-first-lady-casey-desantis-announces-100-million-in-cancer-research-funding.html

Governor proposes creation of Florida State Guard

Governor DeSantis announced more than $100 million in funding proposals last week to support the Florida’s National Guard and establish the Florida State Guard, a civilian volunteer force that will assist the National Guard in state emergencies.

The Governor’s budget proposal includes:

  • $87.5 million to expand the existing readiness center in Miramar and to establish three new armories in Homestead, Gainesville and Malabar;
  • $8.9 million for existing armory maintenance;
  • $2.2 million for a new headquarters for the National Guard Counter Drug Program;
  • $5.1 million to support Florida National Guardsmen seeking higher-education degrees; and
  • $3.5 million to establish the Florida State Guard.

“We are proud of our veterans and active-duty military members and proud of what our communities do to support them,” Governor DeSantis said. “Florida is one of the most veteran friendly states and I think there are very few places that you would rather be on duty than in the state of Florida. As a veteran, I really appreciate what everyone who wears the uniform does in our state and am excited about these proposals – they will go a long way and have a meaningful impact.”

The establishment of the Florida State Guard will support emergency responses from hurricanes, natural disasters and other state emergencies. The $3.5 million to establish the Florida State Guard will enable civilians to be trained in the best emergency response techniques. Florida will now become the 23rd state with a state guard recognized by the federal government.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/12/02/governor-ron-desantis-announces-military-budget-proposal-to-guard-floridas-future/

​​Senator Marco Rubio

Marco Rubio’s stand against Chinese slavery

Spectator World recently ran an article on Senator Marco Rubio’s unflinching stand against the Chinese Communist Party’s slave labor and genocide against the Uighurs. It came to a head when Senator Rubio wanted to amend a bill to include banning imports from Xinjiang, where the genocide is taking place. It has unanimous support in the Senate, but Majority Leader Schumer took it out on a ginned up technicality. So Rubio scotched a vote on the broader bill.

Here’s an excerpt:

Rubio notes that the Xinjiang proposal has unanimous support in the Senate and suggests that the revenue-raising complaint, the so-called blue slip objection, is applied unevenly. “It cannot mean it applies when I’m not for the policy and it doesn’t apply when I’m for it,” said Rubio last night.

Schumer has been caught flatfooted yet again — and handled it badly. Rubio is taking a stand against slave labor and genocide. The Senate majority leader would be wise not to call that “sad” or “absurd.”

Read the entire article here: https://spectatorworld.com/newsletter/marco-rubios-stand-against-chinese-slavery/

Tweets

https://twitter.com/GovRonDeSantis/status/1467881570270916610

https://twitter.com/AGAshleyMoody/status/1468636247811842060

https://twitter.com/JimmyPatronis/status/1468312517311148037

https://twitter.com/marcorubio/status/1467826021919604750

https://twitter.com/FloridaGOP/status/1467168747534393344

https://twitter.com/teamrondesantis/status/1466895381690728450\

https://twitter.com/TeamMarco/status/1467932948930379776?s=20

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
 

Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up

with Congressman Byron Donalds

December 6, 2021
 

Last week the United States House of Representatives was in session as lawmakers scrambled to keep the government open following years of fiscal irresponsibility, especially in this Congress.   

 

Like most of you, before I entered Congress, I watched in frustration as the headlines would warn of a government shutdown. Years and years of fiscal negligence on both sides of the aisle have led to the doomsday scenario that members could solve if they passed a balanced budget. Unfortunately, the Democrats in charge on Capitol Hill want to continue kicking the can down the road and, even worse, bloat their funding bill with partisan policies like increasing the funding for refugee resettlement and preventing appropriate safeguards for the massive influx of refugees. I didn’t get sent to Congress to follow the status quo, which is why I voted NO on this Continuing Resolution. It is time we bring fiscal structure and stability to Capitol Hill.      

Last Monday, the Supreme Court heard the opening arguments for the Dobbs v. Jackson case. This case has the potential to change federal law on the books regarding abortion, tilting in favor of America’s unborn children. As you know, I am a fervent fighter for the life of the unborn, and I will always stand for pro-life policies and commit to being a voice for the voiceless.        

 

Finally, the November jobs report came out last week, and the data was not pretty. Anyone not living under a rock is well aware of the dire economic conditions occurring under the Biden-Harris administration. Every American feels the pain of their policies at the pump, Publix, and pretty much every aspect of daily life. The Democrats in control of Washington, D.C. are financially illiterate, and their America last domestic agenda is holding America’s great resurgence back.   

 

Continue reading for more information on this week’s legislative updates, community engagement, and must-see media interviews.

 

 
Remembering Senator Bob Dole
Erika and I send our deepest condolences to the family of Bob Dole. Senator Dole lived a remarkable life that shaped our nation for generations to come. America is better today because of the service and dedication of proud patriots like him.

 

May he Rest In Peace.

 
 

 
Legislative Updates
While Democrats continue to look for the root causes of the disastrous economy & continue to blame the ongoing COVID pandemic, all roads lead back to the economic illiteracy of Democrats in power.

 

Read my full statement on the abysmal Nov jobs report & the overall failing American economy.

 
 

 
Community Engagement
At the beginning of last week, I had a great meeting with faculty members of the Florida Gulf Coast University Department of Rehabilitation where I had the opportunity to tour their facility, discuss the importance of patient access, and the critical role Physical Therapists play in our healthcare system.

 

Go Eagles!

 
 

 
In the Media
Last week, I sat down with Elizabeth MacDonald, host of ‘The Evening Edit‘ on Fox Business to discuss the rampant fraud in U.S. jobless benefits, 40% of which has ended up in the hands of the Chinese and Russians.

 

Democrats in Congress are hellbent on dishing out money without proper oversight to ensure U.S. taxpayer dollars ends up in the right hands.

 

 

 
 

 
ICYMI: This past week, I joined Laura Ingraham on Fox New’s ‘Ingraham Angle’ to discuss a recently passed bill in the House that would spend $400M for a national vaccine database.

 

Watch the interview below:

 

 

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Last week, I had the pleasure of having a conversation on Fox Across America with Jimmy Failla to discuss the nation’s leading headlines.

 

Listen to the full conversation below:

Rep. Byron Donalds On Inflation and Why He’s Still Got The Most Swag In Congress
 

 
 

 

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 Joe Gruters

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Paid political advertisement paid for by the Republican Party of Florida, 420 East Jefferson St., Tallahassee, Florida 32301.

Chairman’s Message


The Florida Legislature’s Special Session was short but powerful, enshrining in state law freedoms for Florida employees and parents.

Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, the Republican Legislature went into the Session with the clear goal of standing for workers and parents’ rights. The rapid success of these new laws is exactly what robust, principled and effective leadership looks like.

The legislation signed by Governor DeSantis is the strongest pro-freedom, anti-mandate action taken by any state in the nation.

“I told Floridians that we would protect their jobs and today we made that the law,” Governor DeSantis said. “Nobody should lose their job due to heavy-handed COVID mandates and we had a responsibility to protect the livelihoods of the people of Florida. I’m thankful to the Florida Legislature for joining me in standing up for freedom.”

Here are the elements of the legislation protecting employees:

  • Private employer vaccine mandates are prohibited.
  • Employees can choose from numerous exemptions, including health or religious concerns; pregnancy or anticipated future pregnancy; and past recovery from COVID-19.
  • Employees can choose to opt for periodic testing or PPE as an exemption.
  • Prohibits employers from passing along the costs of testing and PPE to employees.
  • Employers who violate these employee health protections will be fined. For businesses with 99 employees or less, the fine is $10,000 per employee violation. For businesses with 100 or more employees, the fine is $50,000 per employee violation.
  • Government entities may not require COVID-19 vaccinations of anyone, including employees.
  • $5 million for the Attorney General to investigate complaints.

And here are the elements of the legislation protecting families:

  • 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.

The Governor also signed legislation that would allow for removing Florida businesses from the onerous control of an ever expanding OSHA, and create a Florida equivalent administration to ensure workplace safety without the federal overreach.

Republican leadership in the Legislature was unified and every Republican in both chambers supported the legislation.

House Speaker Chris Sprowls: ​​”We have passed the smartest, strongest legislation in America to combat the Biden Administration’s unlawful vaccine mandate. We are proud to stand alongside every Florida parent and worker and say that forced masking of our kids in schools and forced vaccinations to keep your job stops here in Florida.”

Senate President Wilton Simpson: “Today we are sending a clear message that Florida stands for freedom. To our health care workers, law enforcement, first responders, farmers, truckers, and every other worker who never got a day off and couldn’t work from home during the pandemic – thank you for getting us through this crisis. Thank you for putting your family at risk. You stood with us when we needed you most, and we are proud to stand with you now.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/18/governor-ron-desantis-signs-legislation-to-protect-florida-jobs/

Also at the signing event, Attorney General Ashley Moody announced that Florida is suing the Biden administration over the unlawful CDC vaccine mandate that threatens to exacerbate the health care worker shortage. The unlawful mandate comes as the nation is already experiencing what some are calling the worst health care labor crisis in memory.

Attorney General Moody filed the complaint for Temporary Restraining Order in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida in Pensacola.

“Governor DeSantis has shown exemplary leadership throughout the pandemic, and I am proud to stand with him as we challenge unlawful vaccine mandates forced on Floridians by the president and his power-hungry bureaucrats,” Attorney General Moody said. “I will always fight for freedom, Florida’s sovereignty and the autonomy of American workers.”

Read more on the lawsuit here: ​​http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/C9F27051EC65B86D852587910059F8C1

​​

Florida

The Environmental Governor continues to comes through

Governor DeSantis traveled to Naples and Miami Tuesday to lay out his environmental budget proposals for the legislative session, including more than $960 million for Everglades restoration and the protection of water resources, and more than $550 million to ensure that communities are prepared to deal with the impacts of sea level rise, intensified storms and flooding.

The proposed $960 million investment will bring the total four-year investment for Everglades restoration and water resource protection to over $3 billion, more than doubling investments from the previous four years and surpassing Governor DeSantis’ ambitious goal of $2.5 billion. The proposed $550 million investment for resilience will build on the historic funding already received this year. This would bring the total state investment in resiliency to more than $1 billion over two years.

“When I took office, I outlined a bold vision to protect Florida’s environment, and we have not only kept the promises we made, we’ve exceeded them,” Governor DeSantis said. “We are excited to announce this historic support for Florida’s environment, Everglades restoration, and our water resources. We have seen great results so far, but we are not yet at the finish line. It’s nice to see so many coming together to support these initiatives. We will be pushing hard to continue the momentum this legislative session.”

The $960 million in Everglades restoration and water protection include:

  • $660 million for Everglades restoration, including the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, the EAA Reservoir Project, and the Lake Okeechobee Watershed Restoration Project;
  • $175 million for targeted water quality improvements;
  • $50 million for projects to restore Florida’s world-renowned springs;
  • $40 million for the Alternative Water Supply Grant Program;
  • $35 million for increased water quality monitoring and to combat harmful algal blooms including blue-green algae and red tide;
  • $3 million to remove invasive Burmese pythons.

The $550 million for community resilience includes $500 million for projects to make communities more resilient to sea level rise, intensified storms, and flooding; and more than $50 million to close the gap in resiliency planning and to protect our state’s coral reefs.

Environmental groups are praising the Governor’s actions.

“Because of Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida’s one-of-a-kind environment and water resources will have the funding to be protected and restored,” said Eric Eikenberg, Chief Executive Officer, Everglades Foundation.

“The Everglades is a national treasure, and the entire country is behind the movement to protect it,” said Capt. Daniel Andrews, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Captains For Clean Water. “With this record funding, Governor DeSantis is going far above the commitment he made when he took office to restore and protect the Everglades and Florida’s water resources.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/16/governor-ron-desantis-announces-budget-proposals-for-everglades-restoration-the-protection-of-water-resources-and-the-resilient-florida-program/

And here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/16/what-they-are-saying-governor-ron-desantis-announces-budget-proposals-for-everglades-restoration-the-protection-of-water-resources-and-the-resilient-florida-program/

Preserving Freedom Tower

Governor DeSantis proposed a $25 million preserve, refurbish and enhance the Freedom Tower in Miami.

For nearly 100 years, the tower has been a symbol of freedom and democracy, becoming an integral part of the Miami skyline and Miami history. From 1962 to 1974, the Freedom Tower became one of the most recognizable historic buildings in Florida — the place where Cuban refugees would be taken for assistance after fleeing the communist regime and landing in Florida.

It is worth noting that Governor DeSantis made this announcement at the same time as the people in Cuba continue to fight against the totalitarian communist regime. Over the weekend, Cuban Americans in Miami rallied in support of the Cuban people while the oppressive Cuban dictatorship continued to crack down on protestors on the island.

“After the Communist Regime took over in Cuba, hundreds of thousands of people fled and came to Florida to have a chance at freedom,” Governor DeSantis said. “Now it is our responsibility to carry on that legacy. We will continue to make sure the Freedom Tower remains one of the premier symbols of freedom and liberty in our nation.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/15/governor-desantis-announces-25-million-budget-proposal-for-the-freedom-tower/

Florida committed to Correctional Officers

Governor DeSantis and the Florida Department of Corrections announced unprecedented incentives for new correctional officer hires, including hiring bonuses up to $5,000.

“As so many cities and states choose to disrespect, degrade and defund the work of law enforcement, we want Florida to continue valuing our men and women of law enforcement today, tomorrow and for generations to come,” Governor DeSantis said.

Effective immediately, here are the new incentives:

  • $3,000 new hire bonus for all new correctional officers;
  • $1,000 hiring bonus for correctional officers to join high vacancy institutions;
  • $1,000 hiring bonus for certified correctional officer applicants.

Beginning January 2022, state correctional officers starting salary will be raised to $38,750, an increase of 16%. This shows our state’s permanent commitment to all law enforcement.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/17/governor-ron-desantis-and-florida-department-of-corrections-announce-increased-hiring-bonuses-additional-incentives-for-correctional-officers/

Additional workforce training for veterans and spouses

Governor DeSantis announced $8.6 million to workforce development boards across the state to expand career and workforce training opportunities for military veterans and spouses seeking employment. The Governor’s announcement comes as Paychecks for Patriots Career Fairs for veterans and military families are underway across the state.

“We owe the freedoms we enjoy as Americans to our military veterans, and I am focused on ensuring Florida is the best state in the nation for those who have served to find great jobs, start or grow businesses and support their families,” said Governor DeSantis. “Business is booming in Florida, and employers are looking for the leadership skills, training and teamwork military veterans bring to the workforce.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/11/governor-desantis-announces-8-6-million-to-expand-career-and-workforce-training-opportunities-for-military-veterans-and-spouses/

Read more about Paychecks for Patriots here: https://floridajobs.org/paychecks-for-patriots ​​

Senator Marco Rubio

Senator Marco Rubio has been a strong and consistent advocate for veterans and veteran care. For Veterans’ Day, Rubio put out an ad

“They had a job to do, and they did it. No matter how they felt about it, no matter what they believed about it beforehand or after,” he says in a clip from one of the many events he has been part of in support of veterans.

Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyrZ5ZuoxrI

Attorney General Ashley Moody

Moody leads the charge against robocall scammers

Attorney General Ashley Moody continues to lead the fight to protect Floridians from robo scammers who have found workarounds to bypass anti-robocall tech.

Moody is the leader of a letter from 50 state attorneys generals calling on the Federal Communications Commission‘s to implement stricter processes on companies to curtail the calls. In particular, Moody noted that bad actors are exploiting legitimate phone numbers to circumvent previously implemented anti-robocall technology.

“Working with the FCC, we have been successful in reducing the number of scam robocalls targeting Americans,” Moody said. “Unfortunately, in recent months, scammers have found ways to circumvent the technology created to protect our citizens from fraudulent robocall messages.”

Read more here: https://thecapitolist.com/ashley-moody-leads-effort-to-stop-robocallers-from-abusing-phone-numbers/

ICYMI

Florida’s outstanding financial condition

The state of Florida has earned the highest possible financial rating from Standard and Poor, higher than the United States’ rating.

S&P confirmed late last week that Florida’s AAA Stable rating on Florida’s General Obligation bonds, the highest rating available, showed that Florida revealed a rating higher than the nation’s and h higher than other big states, such as California and New York.

Here it is from the S&P report: “Florida’s GO bonds are eligible to be rated above the sovereign because we believe the state can maintain better credit characteristics than the U.S. in a stress scenario.”

“Florida’s economy is strong because we have kept the state open, maintained a positive economic climate, taxed lightly and spent wisely,” Governor DeSantis said. “Florida is yet again outpacing the nation, and the state is well-positioned to weather future economic challenges.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/11/12/sp-announces-floridas-aaa-credit-rating-ranks-higher-than-the-nation/

 

Tweets

https://twitter.com/GovRonDeSantis/status/1461022432295362565

https://twitter.com/marcorubio/status/1460972510326009865

https://twitter.com/AGAshleyMoody/status/1460358644499992584

https://twitter.com/JimmyPatronis/status/1460358531442479111

https://twitter.com/teamrondesantis/status/1459250556489326596

https://twitter.com/TeamMarco/status/1461077685094940677

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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

 

 

” src=”blob:https://collierrepublicanmensclub.com/21903ae5-905c-4252-9e18-9455842f0a48″ alt=” ” border=”0″ class=”Apple-web-attachment Singleton” style=”width: 3.1822in; height: 1.7916in; opacity: 1;”>
 

 
 

 

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

 

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

 
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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.
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 – 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.
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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.”

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