Senator Rick Scott Weekly Update
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Supporting Governor Ron DeSantis on Nikki Fired Silly Accusations
Statement by RPOF Executive Director Helen Aguirre Ferre
Re: Letter from Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried to Governor Ron DeSantis related to the distribution of the COVID vaccine
Tallahassee, FL—”It’s nice to see that Commissioner Nikki Fried is taking time out of her vacation to send out an ill-informed, irresponsible letter on social media that prioritizes politics over helping Floridians who are interested in the vaccine. Frankly, she should be embarrassed to have signed this letter (let’s be honest – it was auto-penned).
“Either the Commissioner is asleep at the switch or she is intentionally sharing misinformation.
“Here are corrections to some of the most egregious lies in her letter:
- Commissioner Fried incorrectly states that Florida has received over 1.2 million doses of the vaccine. However, this number includes projected vaccine deliveries in the future and is not the actual number of doses that have been sent to Florida. Florida continues to work with county health departments to ensure that shipments are utilized as quickly as possible.
- In a letter dated December 30th, Commissioner Fried cites that yesterday the state had a 22.75% positivity rate, when in fact the positivity rate was 8.72%. Commissioner Fried is intentionally citing an obvious data outlier from December 28th, as pointed out in a press release issued by the Florida Department of Health (link here). Citing obvious data outliers is dangerous and inflammatory.
- Commissioner Fried’s insinuation that the Governor is not properly utilizing the Florida National Guard is ridiculous. In fact, the Governor mobilized the Florida National Guard weeks ago to form strike teams with the Florida Department of Health to begin vaccinating residents of long-term care facilities, making Florida the first state in the nation to begin vaccinating long-term care residents. Since March, the Governor has mobilized the Florida National Guard to coordinate multiple facets of our state’s response to the COVID-19 public health emergency, and they continue to operate state supported testing sites.
Just this morning, Governor DeSantis held a press conference at Kings Point in Delray Beach to provide an update regarding Week Three of Florida’s vaccine distribution plan and to kick off the vaccinations for 300 senior citizens 65 and over at Kings Point. At the event, the Governor was joined by Palm Beach County Mayor and Democrat Dave Kerner, Dr. Alina Alonso from the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County, and staff and administrators from Kings Point, a community for seniors. Today’s event was a great example of the ongoing collaborative effort between the state of Florida, county health departments and community partners.
Since day one, all Commissioner Fried has done is politicized the pandemic. If Commissioner Fried actually cared about what is happening, she would take a lesson on leadership from Governor DeSantis to help unify and coordinate resources to achieve results for Floridians. She is clearly only interested in being a partisan hack– Floridians deserve better.
If Commissioner Fried is still confused and wants a briefing, she should call DEM Director Moskowitz– or Mayor Kerner who attended this morning’s 9 am press conference with the Governor – instead of rubber stamping a letter at 3pm which was written by her political team.
Rick Scott Fights for Religious Freedom
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Diaz-Balart Secures Critical Funding in FY2021 Bill
Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after the House passage of FY2021 funding bill.
“The FY2021 funding bill includes big wins for our nation and for Florida. This bill prioritizes funding to enhance our infrastructure, support our military and law enforcement, and strengthen our national security. In addition, school safety remains a top priority, Everglades Restoration receives a significant influx of funding, and programs that our farmers and growers rely on will continue. It also supports critical housing programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Homeless Assistance Grants.
“Attached to this bill are several legislative priorities, including an end to surprise billing— patients will now know the real cost of a scheduled procedure before it takes place. Additionally, this bill includes the final version of WRDA 2020, thereby ensuring the Moore Haven Lock and Dam is renamed in honor of fallen FWC Officer Julian Keen, Jr.
“We have already seen Florida capitalize on the programs these bills fund, and with its passage today, our state will continue to benefit from them moving forward.”
Congressman Diaz-Balart, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, was successful in including the following items in the 2021 appropriations omnibus.
Parting Shots
Jim Carter
President, Men’s Republican Club
Moving Forward As my last message to you as President, I want to thank you for all your support and dedication as Constitutional conservatives who believe in our great Republic, the United States Of America.
Our job is never done. Like you, I’m devastated by what happened to our President, Donald Trump. It’s now evident major election fraud took place in several key states. Dominion voting systems is a major problem.
Key Democrats are at the heart of the matter, along with the main stream media and social net works (Facebook. Google, etc.) who act like none of these problems exist. The chief strategist is Geoge Soros who created the Open Society Foundation. The connections between this organization and Dominion are like Who’s Who in the Democratic Party. The Pelosi’s, Fienstein, Emhoff (Harris’s husband), The Clinton’s and of course Biden, the King of Identity politics. Look at his proposed cabinet.
This all screams for National Election Reform. We must eliminate mail in voting. Not absentee voting, which has a verification process. The other is a disaster. What is even more appalling is Republican controlled legislatures and Judges who fail to take action. It’s my opinion, fear and self preservation are becoming more important than taking corrective action. I hope I’m wrong.
As I write this I have no idea what will happen in Georgia. I’m optimistic we will hold the line. If we don’t it will be a rough two years until 2022. Here, we can take back both the House and Senate. Yes, by then the Country will be enraged by Draconian politics at all levels of government.
During this period Florida will emerge as the model for Republican politics. We will have to double down in our efforts to beat back the radical left. Our job will be to re-elect Governor DeSantis and Senator Rubio along with more Republicans to U.S. House and Florida State legislature.
Also, Attorney General and all District and City attorney positions. These are a MAJOR target of the left. Buckle up, get ready, never lose hope. I’m never giving into identity politics. It’s the ultimate action of stupidity.
Elect and appoint individual’s based on knowledge, skills and ability. Not gender, skin color , sexual preference to name a few. I’ve never seen those as important in a decision making matrix. Let’s make 2021 a great year.
Senator Rick Scott Week in Review
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December 11 – State Representative Bob Rommel
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Merry Christmas from Kathleen Passidomo
| This year delivered many challenges to our state and our nation, but hope is on the horizon. The FDA last Friday granted approval for a COVID-19 vaccine to be administered in the United States. On Monday, December 14, a nurse in Tampa received the first COVID-19 vaccine in Florida after Governor Ron DeSantis accepted the shipment. 100,000 doses of the vaccine are expected to arrive in Florida this week, and will be administered to the workers on the front line, as well as Florida’s most vulnerable citizens.
While this is a great stride forward in our fight against COVID-19, the vast majority of us remain at risk until the vaccine is widely available. Continue to follow CDC guidelines, practice social distancing, wear a mask and wash your hands. It is our personal responsibility to keep ourselves and others safe by taking simple steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. I hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season. May 2021 bring you good health and great joy. |
| COVID-19 Update: Florida Hospitalizations & Case Data
This month, Florida became the third state to exceed 1 million cases. As of December 17, there have been 1,155,335 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 20,294 in Collier County, 2,897 in Hendry County and 35,353 in Lee County. As of Tuesday, December 15, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 9.28%. Data reported to the Florida Department of Health (DOH) shows there has been a steady decline in the number of reported Florida resident deaths who were previously diagnosed with COVID-19. To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit DOH’s COVID-19 webpage. For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website. If you are experiencing symptoms, please contact your local County Health Department. |
| Local COVID-19 Hospitalizations
As of December 17, 12,370 hospital beds remain available across Florida, representing 19.91% of total capacity. Collier County has 13.4% availability, Hendry County has 44.83% availability, and Lee County has 10.93% availability. For real-time information on Florida’s local hospital bed availability and capacity, visit the Agency for Health Care Administration’s website. |
| Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on COVID-19 Vaccine Plan
On December 10, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his plan to distribute Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in Florida. “Our top priority is residents of long-term care facilities. They are at the greatest risk and this vaccine could have a positive impact, not just protecting them from COVID, but allowing them to return to a more normal life,” said Governor DeSantis. Elderly residents and individuals considered high-risk who suffer from multiple medical or health conditions will be next in line for the vaccine. Florida anticipates additional vaccine options as other companies await approval from the FDA. Click here to learn more about the Governor’s vaccine distribution plan. |
| Electoral College Meets
On Monday, December 14, I was proud to serve as one of Florida’s 29 electors and cast a vote on behalf of Florida. It was a historic moment and an important part of our nation’s democratic process. It was an honor to represent our state. |
| Florida Senate Committees Announced
Earlier this month, Senate President Wilton Simpson announced his leadership appointments for his 2020-2022 term. This upcoming legislative session, I am honored to serve as Chair to the Senate Rules Committee. In my new position as Chair, I will work to ensure we produce and advance policies that help Florida recover and rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic. Other chair positions appointed by Senate President Simpson are: Agriculture Appropriations Banking and Insurance Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Commerce and Tourism Community Affairs Criminal Justice Education Environment and Natural Resources Ethics and Elections Finance and Tax Governmental Oversight and Accountability Health Policy Judiciary Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security Regulated Industries Rules Transportation |
| Traveling? Remain Healthy This Holiday Season
Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. If you must travel this holiday season, the CDC recommends the following steps to best protect yourself and others: · Check travel restrictions before you go. · Check CDC’s Domestic Travel Guidance and consider testing before and after you travel. · Get your flu shot before you travel. · Always wear a mask in public settings and on public transportation. · Stay at least six feet apart from anyone who is not in your household. · Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer. · Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose and mouth. · Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer. · If driving, pack your food and limit stops. · Know when to delay your travel. |
| Tips to Host a Healthy Holiday Gathering
If you choose to host loved ones in your home, the CDC recommends the following steps to make holiday celebrations safer. · Set expectations with guests ahead of celebrating together. · Limit the number of guests. · Have a small, outdoor celebration with family and friends who live in your community, weather-permitting. · Have extra unused masks available for your guests and encourage everyone to wear them. · Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use. · If celebrating indoors, bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors, if possible. · Have a separate space for guests to wash their hands or provide hand sanitizer. · Cancel your gathering if you or someone who lives with you is sick or has been near someone who thinks they have COVID-19. · It’s okay if you decide to postpone or cancel your gathering. Do what’s best for you. |
| December Festivities in Southwest Florida
As we finish out a very challenging year, we turn our attention to the excitement of the holidays and all the festivities that come with the season. WINK News and the Naples Daily News have both provided a list of local holiday events for you and your family to plan ahead and safely participate in this year. Visit the WINK News website or the Naples Daily News for a list of upcoming events. |
| Protect Yourself from “Porch Pirates” This Holiday Season
With the increased number of packages being dropped off at doorsteps and left on porches, the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office offered up some safety tips to prevent you from being a target of a home-delivery theft this year. Here are some tips to protect yourself from holiday “Porch Pirates:” · Be sure to make note of your packages’ tracking numbers and monitor delivery while in transit. Plan to be home during that time, if possible. · Require that someone sign for packages. · Try to make arrangements with your shippers to leave packages out of sight. · Establish a relationship with your U.S. Postal Service worker and service-delivery employees. This can be helpful when problems need to be solved. · Look into locking mailboxes with baffle doors that accept small packages. · Have packages delivered to your workplace or other safer locations. · Make arrangements for your neighbor to keep an eye out for your packages. · Install security cameras. · Rent a box or locker at your local post office or UPS store. · Insure valuable items. · If your uninsured packages are stolen, ask for a replacement by the shipper. In some cases, they may offer this for free. · Report stolen packages to law enforcement so they are better able to work on catching thieves, who are often targeting multiple homes. · Keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles that might appear to be following delivery trucks or lingering too long in front of homes. |
| Holiday Collection & Charity Drive Opportunities
This year has been challenging for all, which is why this holiday season holds great significance to give back to others who may need a boost in spirits this December. Here are some opportunities to contribute locally and help others have a joyful end to the year. Cape Coral Fire Department Toy Drive Lee County Domestic Animal Services Gift Giving Tree USPS’ ‘Operation Santa’ Toys for Tots Operation Christmas Care Operation Christmas Child Be a Santa to a Senior |
| Southwest Florida COVID-19 Testing Locations
Many testing locations offer free testing. Find the most up-to-date information on services offered, appointments and locations at the links below. |
| Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from my family to yours.
Sincerely, Kathleen C. Passidomo Senate Majority Leader |
President’s Message – Annual Meeting of Republican Men’s Club Dear members
Jim Carter
President, Men’s Republican Club
Our club was officially chartered in April of 2003. Two years prior I stated this club with Lou Vlasho, a Naples Restauranteur, who had founded a similar club in Ohio, prior to moving to Naples.
Early in our discussion we we were joined by several others, including Wayne Smith who played a major role in developing our club. I had the honor of serving as our first President.
Through the years we’ve had our ups and downs. A core of dedicated members kept us active in Republican politics. In 2012 Charlie Sues asked me to rejoin the Board to fulfill an unexpired term of a member who left the area. We had about 35 members. I was asked to take over programming. Soon after our president resigned over a job conflict. I was elected President. The rest is history.
Over the last Eight years we’ve rebuilt the Board, expanded our scholarship program, developed the Annual Salute to Veterans into a major Naples event and brought national and international speakers to our membership. This Board is getting us through COVID-19 and will continue to provide the leadership that takes us forward into 2021.
Today we have over 120 members. Our membership includes many of our elected officials both local, state and newly elected congressman Byron Donald’s. We have provided a great deal of leadership to the CCREC and always have been a major forum for Republican candidates.
This meeting has particular significance as three (3) new members will be elected to your Board of Directors. We have five (5) candidates for Three (3) positions. All are very qualified to join the other six (6) in moving us forward.
You need to read the bios and be present to vote. These candidates are our future.
I know all of us stepping down have found this a very rewarding experience. Chad, John and I will continue to be involved and do everything we can to support our club. It will be my pleasure to introduce your new President and officers at the January meeting.
Being a Republican
Jim Carter
President, Men’s Republican Club
Why we are Republicans First, we understand what it means to be an American. It’s our core values given to us by our Founding Fathers. No matter what happens in any election cycle these will always be our guiding principles :
“ We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice to insure domestic tranquility, to provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our prosperity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for The United States of America “
Freedom fighters have never been a majority. Our beliefs are less government, lower taxes and more freedom. This is why we have been such a successful Nation. Those who stand tall in the darkest of times provide all of us the strength and motivation to never give up on the American dream.
Churchill said “never, never, never give up” FDR said “ the only thing we have to fear is fear itself” These words will always be true.
Donald Trump has inspired freedom loving Americans. He taught us to believe in America and ourselves again. Not since President Regan have we seen so much passion for America.
What all the above teaches us is America, the melting pot of the world, is the last great bastion of freedom.
Where else could you arrive penniless and achieve success beyond your wildest dreams?
Today, as always, we have external enemy’s. However, the greatest threats are with in our boarders. These destructive forces are imbedded in our government, corporations, educational systems and media conglomerates.
If we are to stay free, we will once again have to stand tall. Our job as Republicans never ends. Every election cycle provides new challenges. We can as Churchill said “never, never, never” give up.