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Dear Fellow Floridian,

We cannot afford to sugarcoat the truth: the threat of foreign terror attacks on U.S. soil is skyrocketing under the failed leadership of President Joe Biden. This week, during a Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing on Threats to the Homeland, I fought to get answers from Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FBI Director Christopher Wray on the imminent threat of terror attacks on U.S. soil. We know that President Biden’s wide open southern border has put families in every community at greater risk of danger, and after Iran-backed Hamas terrorists killed thousands in Israel, including at least 33 Americans, and still hold hundreds hostage, terror threats are escalating even higher.

I’m gravely concerned that the Biden administration is missing the clear signs of danger and that the risk of a FOREIGN terror attack on American soil coordinated or orchestrated by a foreign terror organization is higher than it has been in decades. Even more concerning was Director Wray’s silence and non-answers when I asked if America is safer under President Biden. Secretary Mayorkas and Director Wray both admitted that the threats facing our country right now are especially concerning. My question is this: how are the American people supposed to have confidence in this president to keep us safe and lead if his own officials do not? This is something that every family in Florida ought to be demanding answers and action to fix.

I have been sounding the alarm on Joe Biden’s weak appeasement policies since he took office and calling him out for refusing to stand up to dangerous regimes in Iran, Communist China, Venezuela and around the world. This week, Wray and Mayorkas finally admitted what every family in America is feeling. Terror threats have elevated under Joe Biden and it’s time to be concerned.

NOW is the time to secure our border, stop appeasing ruthless dictators around the world and stand strong against the threats facing our country. Our kids and grandkids’ safety and the future of our great country is too important to wait a second longer, and I won’t stop holding this administration accountable to do so. Watch the full exchange HERE.

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Ted Cruz & Colleagues Introduce Bill to Use Funds Seized from Corrupt Venezuelan Individuals for the Venezuelan People

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement urging his Senate colleagues to immediately act on aid for Israel and vote on it separately from any other issues. Last week, President Biden proposed a massive $106 billion spending package that linked aid for Israel and Ukraine together, along with a deeply flawed and reckless spending proposal that would only exacerbate the raging border crisis that the president’s failed policies have created.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It has been 17 days since Iran-backed Hamas terrorists launched their savagely brutal attack on Israel, killing more than 1,400 innocent people, including at least 33 Americans, and took Americans and hundreds of others hostage in Gaza. The Senate needs to vote on aid for Israel now – by itself. Everyone in Washington knows that what the president has proposed will never pass in the House. It is unserious and needs to be discarded and moved on from. Americans should be disgusted that President Biden and Washington’s ruling class continue to use crisis after crisis to push massive spending packages for issues that have no business being voted on together. There is overwhelming bipartisan support for Israel and we can get an aid package passed in the Senate quickly. The same cannot be said about Biden’s asks on Ukraine aid, which is far broader than just lethal aid to defeat Putin, or his horrific idea to give billions to bail out sanctuary cities and push policies that actually make the raging national security crisis on the border even worse. Needlessly delaying this action in search of some doomed grand bargain only hurts the United States, our ally Israel and the urgent mission to rescue the Americans being held hostage in Gaza by Iran-backed Hamas.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott to POTUS: Recognize María Corina Machado, Don’t Trust Maduro to Uphold His Election Agreement

Following reports of the suspension of “all effects” of the Venezuelan primaries by Nicolás Maduro’s illegitimate Supreme Court after opposition candidate María Corina Machado’s successful primary, Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to immediately revise the conditions of sanctions relief that the administration has recently offered to the Maduro regime and recognize the María Corina Machado as the legitimate opposition leader. Senator Scott is supporting Venezuelan opposition conditions to be met by the Maduro regime—and since they were not fulfilled, Senator Scott is urging President Biden to consider reimplementing severe sanctions.

Read the full letter HERERead more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Todd Young Urging President Biden to Address Rise in Terrorists Crossing Southern Border

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) and their colleagues in sending a letter to President Joe Biden expressing deep concern about the rise in terrorists crossing the southern border and asking for plans to bolster border and internal security measures. In addition to Senators Scott and Young, Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined the letter.

In the letter, the senators wrote, “Our Southern border is a matter of deep national concern and insecurity. With rising violence and economic crises around the world pushing many people towards our borders, the record levels of illegal crossings and the spike in Border Patrol apprehensions of individuals matching the U.S. terror watchlist are alarming. In fiscal year 2023 alone, 169 migrants with positive terrorism watchlist matches were apprehended along our Southern border.  This represents a tenfold increase from the figures reported in fiscal year 2021. Although the exact affiliations and identities of these individuals remain classified, the marked increase is alarming. Even if these apprehensions represent a minority, the potential devastation from a single individual with malign intentions cannot be overstated.”

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE. 

Statement from Sen. Rick Scott on the Passing of Ambassador Mel Sembler

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the passing of Ambassador Mel Sembler.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Ann and I are devastated to learn of the passing of our dear friend, Mel Sembler, who is now reunited with the love of his life, Betty, who we lost last year. I was just with Mel on his birthday earlier this year. As always, he was a beam of positivity and I am so grateful for the time we spent together that day and on countless occasions over the many years of our friendship. Mel was a once in a generation leader, and we need more Americans like him. He lived the American Dream, building a business from the ground up and showing what is truly possible in our great nation when you work hard and pour your heart into everything you do. But Mel wasn’t just a businessman, he believed in building a better America. If something mattered to Mel, he made sure you knew about it and he showed you its importance by dedicating all of his time and energy into the causes he believed in. He spent decades of his life fighting to support Israel and America’s Jewish communities. He was the voice for Israel that we need now more than ever. He also fought tirelessly to keep drugs off our streets and keep our families safe. While advancing these causes and countless others, he served our nation as U.S. Ambassador to Italy and U.S. Ambassador to Australia and Nauru working with three presidential administrations to advance the interests of the United States around the world. It is impossible to capture all the good that Mel did for Florida and the United States, but I know this: Florida and America are better today because of Mel Sembler. His hard work has had a positive impact on countless Americans and his legacy will be felt in Florida and across our country for generations to come. We join all who knew and loved Mel in praying for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as they mourn the loss and celebrate the incredible life of this great Floridian and American.”

Read more HERE. 

Sens. Rick Scott, Marsha Blackburn & Colleagues to Sen. Schumer: Reject Biden Request for Gaza Humanitarian Aid That Hamas Will Steal

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marsha Blackburn in leading their Senate Republican colleagues in a letter to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) urging him to reject President Biden’s request for up to $9 billion in humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

Read the full letter HERERead more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Urging Accountability From Powell Missing Goal of Reducing the Fed’s Balance Sheet

Ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee meeting, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Chair of the Federal Reserve Jerome Powell urging accountability regarding his failure to meet his target of reducing the Fed’s balance sheet. Earlier this year, Senator Scott sent a similar letter to Chair Powell, but has not yet received a response. Senator Scott has been adamant about holding the Fed accountable to their goals of reducing the balance sheet since his election to the Senate. Unfortunately, inflation continues to skyrocket and meanwhile, the Fed has made nearly zero progress.

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott: I Won’t Stop Fighting for Florida Farmers & Pass the Block Grant Assistance Act

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor ahead of a vote on his bipartisan, bicameral Block Grant Assistance Act, urging his colleagues to support this needed legislation. This bill, which was passed by the House of Representatives earlier this year, provides the authority needed for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to issue block grants to Florida’s growers and all U.S. agriculture producers devastated by recent natural disasters.

Senator Scott’s Block Grant Assistance Act has been endorsed by AmericanHort, North American Blueberry Council, International Fresh Produce Association, Florida Farm Bureau, Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, Florida Citrus Mutual, Feeding Florida, Florida Strawberry Growers Association, Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscapers Association and the Florida Tomato Exchange.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As we work to get the agriculture community back on their feet from the natural disasters, I won’t stop fighting to make sure that the federal government keeps showing up. Following natural disasters in prior years, USDA has administered block grants to give states more flexibility to meet the needs of their growers and producers, but additional congressional action is needed to do that for farmers fighting now to recover from recent storms. After refusing to take action to help this community for 14 MONTHS, Biden’s Agriculture Department waited until this bill was coming up for a vote to open a ‘portal’ for growers and ranchers to apply for assistance.

“Here’s the thing: my constituents don’t trust this process or this administration, and I sure don’t either. And, the assistance being offered is anything close to what’s needed for our farmers to actually recover. The House previously passed the Block Grant Assistance Act, but today the Senate Democrats again failed to advance this urgently needed bill and I can’t understand why anyone voted against it. This bill helps farmers all across the country, but let me speak for Florida: we’ve been waiting for more than a year for our farmers to get desperately needed disaster aid. Folks around the country that put food on our tables and create jobs in our states are hurting, and I won’t stop fighting to get this bill passed for them.”

See more from Senator Scott’s speech HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio & Colleagues Introduce Bill to Prevent Foreign Terrorist Sympathizers from Entering or Remaining in the U.S.

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marco Rubio and their colleagues to introduce the Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act. Following the October 7th terrorist attacks in Israel, pro-Hamas demonstrations swept across the U.S., including by foreign nationals. Under federal law, individuals who endorse or espouse terrorist activity are inadmissible. Current law explicitly states that members of certain groups, including the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), are not permitted in the U.S. However, the PLO is not the only group that should be banned in our nation.

This bill would expand current U.S. law to prohibit members, officers, officials, representatives, and spokesmen of Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Palestine Islamic Jihad from entering, or remaining in, the U.S. and would also apply to aliens who endorse or espouse terrorist activities conducted by any of these U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO). Senators Scott and Rubio are joined by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Ted Budd (R-NC) in introducing the legislation.

Senator Rick Scott said, “We’ve seen the complete evil and destruction displayed by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists in Israel over the past few weeks – killing thousands of people, beheading babies, raping young women. Our Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act makes it clear that terrorists, or those who have supported or encouraged terrorist activities, aren’t welcome on U.S. soil. The United States is facing more and more threats from around the world from evil regimes and those who want to destroy our way of life, and protecting our nation’s homeland and Americans’ safety should be a top priority.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott & Colleagues Pass Bipartisan Senate Resolution Congratulating Coco Gauff on Historic U.S. Open Tennis Title

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Jon Ossoff, Marco Rubio and Raphael Warnock in passing their bipartisan U.S. Senate Resolution congratulating Coco Gauff on her historic U.S. Open Tennis title. The U.S. Senate passed the resolution unanimously. Coco Gauff grew up in Delray Beach and won her first Grand Slam title this September, becoming the youngest American to win a Grand Slam title since Serena Williams won the U.S. Open in 1999.

The senators wrote, “Coco Gauff is an inspiration to millions of young girls and boys across the country with her passion for the sport, faith and victories. Resolved, that the Senate congratulates Coco Gauff for her inspiring victory at this year’s US Open Tennis Championships.”

Read more HER E.

Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Name Puerto Rico CBP Office After Fallen Agent

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Jon Ossoff, Marco Rubio and Raphael Warnock in passing their bipartisan U.S. Senate Resolution congratulating Coco Gauff on her historic U.S. Open Tennis title. The U.S. Senate passed the resolution unanimously. Coco Gauff grew up in Delray Beach and won her first Grand Slam title this September, becoming the youngest American to win a Grand Slam title since Serena Williams won the U.S. Open in 1999.

The senators wrote, “Coco Gauff is an inspiration to millions of young girls and boys across the country with her passion for the sport, faith and victories. Resolved, that the Senate congratulates Coco Gauff for her inspiring victory at this year’s US Open Tennis Championships.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Save the Sunshine: Sen. Rick Scott Renews Call to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent

Senator Rick and Marco Rubio reintroduced the bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act, to end the twice-yearly time change and make Daylight Saving Time the national year-round standard. In 2018, as Governor of Florida, Senator Scott signed legislation which, pending federal approval, would exempt Florida from the time change practice and allow the state to remain on Daylight Saving Time year round. In March 2022, the Senate unanimously passed the Sunshine Protection Act. The legislation went to the House where it awaited action and failed to pass by the end of the 117th Congress—Senator Scott and Rubio are urging their colleagues to get it over the finish line this year.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Permanent daylight saving time means more time in the sunshine and that’s something everybody should support. I constantly hear from Floridians on this – changing the clock twice a year is outdated, confusing and completely unnecessary. When I was governor of Florida, I was proud to sign a bill into law that will stop the clocks on the state level, but we need federal action. I’m proud to fight alongside Senator Rubio to pass our bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act and make a permanent change that benefits families in Florida and across the nation. It’s time to get this bill across the finish line and on the president’s desk.”

Read more HERE.

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. Earlier this week, ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee meeting, Senator Scott sent a letter to Chair of the Federal Reserve Jerome Powell urging accountability regarding his failure to meet his target of reducing the Fed’s balance sheet. Earlier this year, Senator Scott sent a similar letter to Chair Powell, but has not yet received a response. Senator Scott has been adamant about holding the Fed accountable to their goals of reducing the balance sheet since his election to the Senate. Unfortunately, inflation continues to skyrocket and meanwhile, the Fed has made nearly zero progress. Read more in Reuters HERE and the full letter HERE.

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sen. Rick Scott Grills DHS Sec. Mayorkas, FBI Director Wray on Risk of Terrorist Attacks on U.S. Soil

During a Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing on Threats to the Homeland, Senator Rick Scott grilled Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FBI Director Christopher Wray on the imminent threat of terror attacks on U.S. soil after Iran-backed Hamas terrorists killed thousands in Israel, including at least 33 Americans, and still hold hundreds hostage. Senator Scott remains gravely concerned that the Biden administration is missing the clear signs of danger and that the risk of a terror attack on American soil coordinated or orchestrated by a foreign terror organization is higher than it has been in decades.

In his response to Senator Scott, Director Wray said, “We went through a period where the traditional-structured Foreign Terrorist Organization threat in the U.S. subsided some in favor of this inspired, ISIS-inspired let’s say, attack … to be clear that threat has not gone away. What has now increased is the greater possibility of one of these Foreign Terrorist Organizations directing an attack in the United States…”

“…It is a time to be concerned. We are in a dangerous period.”

“…The terror threats have elevated” since Joe Biden took office.

See more from Senator Scott’s questioning with Director Wray HERE.

Fox News: WATCH: FBI director goes silent when asked if country ‘safer’ under Biden

Newsweek: Is America Safer Under Joe Biden? FBI Director Can’t Say It Is

Townhall: ‘Wake Up, It Is a Time to Be Concerned’: FBI Director Wray Issues Stark Warning at Committee Hearing

Florida’s Voice: Rick Scott says Israel ceasefire calls ‘insane and dangerous’

WJNOSenator Scott Asks To Reject Biden’s Request For Aid to Gaza

Florida Daily: Rick Scott, Jared Moskowitz Want U.S. Department of Education to Crack Down on Antisemitism 

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Joins GOP Call Urging Biden to Address Rise in Terrorists Crossing Southern Border 

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Takes Aim at Fed Reserve Chair Jay Powell

The Floridian: Scott Highlights Terrorists at Border, Demands Security

Fox 13 Tampa Bay: Senator Rick Scott says Israel and Ukraine funding should be separate

 

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Senator Scott’s Team in Orlando

This week, Senator Scott’s team attended the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando’s 2023 Hispanic Economic Impact Summit.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Groveland

Senator Scott’s team also attended the 21st Year Anniversary service and celebration of Hope International Church.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Jacksonville

Another event Senator Scott’s team attended was the stand for Israel press conference alongside local, state and federal elected officials.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Panama City

Senator Scott’s team also attended the Eastern Ship Building Christening and Launch of ARGUS

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Update on Salute to Veterans

Vice Admiral (Ret) Sean Pybus United States Navy, SEAL

6th Annual Salute to Veterans Luncheon

Friday, November 3rd, 2023
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Naples Hilton
5111 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34103

Join us for a patriotic luncheon honoring our veterans and supporting local veteran services organizations.

Keynote Speaker: Vice Admiral (Ret) Sean Pybus, United States Navy, SEAL

Also featuring:

  • Invocation by Major Chad Czeschke, Florida National Guard
  • Pledge of Allegiance by Gold Star Mom Kim Hayes
  • National Anthem by Danielle Tompkins
  • Setups for Freedom Waters Foundation, Golden Paws, and Warrior Homes (formerly Wounded Warriors of Collier County)
  • US Navy and Marine Recruiters on site
  • Palmette Ridge HS JROTC presenting the flags
  • Welcome Video from Congressman Byron Donalds
  • All Sing God Bless America
  • This event is a must-attend for all patriots!

Tickets are on sale now. – Click Here for Tickets and Sponsorship Packages

Proceeds from the luncheon support scholarships and veteran services donations in the community.

We thank our sponsors for their generous support:

  • Naples Hilton
  • Life in Naples Magazine
  • TechTrueUp
  • Devoe Cadillac
  • VFW
  • Alamo Gun Range

Table and Patriot Sponsors:

  • Melissa Blazier
  • Erick Carter
  • Tim Guerrette
  • Pete Koenig
  • Mike Nadolski
  • Charles Jarrett
  • Tim West
  • Freedom Waters Foundation for Veterans
  • Dennis Parker
  • Glen Howell
  • Day Adjusting & Consulting
  • Jordan Tompkins
  • Matthew Sandher
  • Affordable Landscaping Service & Design
  • Ed McSorley.

Don’t miss this opportunity to show your appreciation for our veterans and support local veteran services organizations.

Sign up today!

 

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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Dear Fellow Floridian,

Since the horrific Iran-backed Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel that took the lives of more than 1,400 innocent Israelis and others, including 32 Americans, I have been in constant communication and meetings with Jewish and community leaders in Florida. As I have told them, my focus is on keeping Jewish Floridians safe, ensuring that America fully supports Israel to destroy Hamas and bringing home every hostage being held in Gaza.

Let me be clear: Iran-backed Hamas terrorists have already killed at least 32 Americans and AMERICAN LIVES ARE STILL AT STAKE. I was glad to hear that two American hostages have been released today, but more must be done. Instead of offering humanitarian aid to Hamas-controlled Gaza knowing it will only fuel more terror and death by Hamas, I urge President Biden to immediately address the nation to make clear that he has an immediate and actionable plan to get every American home.

As the fight in Israel continues, I’ve been meeting with Jewish and community leaders back home in Florida. Following my meeting last Friday in Aventura, I again met with Rabbis and Jewish leaders and hosted a roundtable yesterday at the Chabad of Central Boca Raton to stand in solidarity with Israel and Florida’s Jewish community. Before I left Washington yesterday, I also met with a young woman named Natalie, who survived Hamas’ brutal attack at the music festival in Southern Israel. Her story must be heard and we must do everything we can to support Israel with whatever it needs, including munitions for its Iron Dome, to defend itself and destroy evil Hamas.

But supporting Israel’s fight to destroy Iran-backed Hamas takes more than just weapons. It’s also making sure no American taxpayer dollars are being used to help these terrorist organizations in the first place. It’s why I introduced my Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act earlier this Congress following Biden’s State Department’s admission in 2021 that American taxpayer dollars for humanitarian aid in Gaza could potentially fund Iran-backed Hamas terrorists. Just as they did in 2021, Senate Democrats again blocked the passage of this bill THIS WEEK. Watch my full speech HERE. 

It’s a disgusting admission of where Democrats really stand, and I plan to fight like hell to stop them from helping Hamas or sending a single taxpayer dollar to these evil terrorists.

The most important thing for America and Florida to do right now is STAND WITH ISRAEL and get Americans being held hostage in Gaza home safely. End of story.

Read more HERE.

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

 

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

 

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Sen. Rick Scott to Biden: Bring All American Hostages Home Now

Following President Biden’s address to the nation last night, and news of two American hostages being released into Egypt, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement demanding that President Biden focus solely on immediately executing a plan to get Americans held hostage by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists home to the United States, and providing Israel everything it needs to destroy Hamas terrorists. Since the October 7th attack on Israel, Iran-backed Hamas terrorists have taken the lives of more than 1,400 Israelis and others, including at least 32 Americans.

Senator Rick Scott said, “President Biden’s address to the nation from the Oval Office mentioned Ukraine 23 times, but hostages only twice. In his 15 minute speech, President Biden spent only 15 seconds discussing American hostages and 0 seconds on an actionable plan to get them home safely. Biden claimed that getting hostages home is his top priority, but that’s hard to believe when it was just 2.1% of this speech. Let me be clear: Iran-backed Hamas terrorists have already killed at least 32 Americans and AMERICAN LIVES ARE STILL AT STAKE. I was glad to hear that two American hostages have been released into Egypt today, but more must be done. Instead of offering humanitarian aid to Hamas-controlled Gaza knowing it will only fuel more terror and death by Hamas, I urge President Biden to immediately address the nation to make clear that he has an immediate and actionable plan to get every American home.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott & Colleagues: We Stand With Israel, Demand Immediate Rescue of American Hostages

As President Biden commits that the U.S. will provide $100 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza and the West Bank, Senator Rick Scott spoke at a press conference in support of Israel and to demand immediate action to protect U.S. tax dollars from benefitting Iran-backed Hamas terrorists which are currently holding American hostages. Later today at 4:50 p.m., Senator Scott will be on the Senate floor asking that the Senate immediately pass his Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act to ensure no American taxpayer dollars will be authorized to the territory of Gaza until the president certifies to Congress that these funds can be spent without benefitting terrorist organizations and that there are no hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza.

Senator Rick Scott said, “This morning, President Biden announced $100 million in U.S. aid for Gaza and the West Bank, and I am here to ensure not a single penny is a donation to the despicable Iran-backed Hamas terrorists responsible for the torture and death of more than 1,400 in Israel, including at least 31 Americans. Today, I’ll be asking the Senate to pass my Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act to make sure the president certifies that no hostages are being held by terrorists in Gaza and that not a single dollar of U.S. taxpayer money is going to Hamas before any humanitarian aid for Gaza is authorized. HAMAS HAS KILLED AT LEAST 31 AMERICANS AND IS CURRENTLY HOLDING AMERICAN HOSTAGES. We’ve seen complete terror and devastation unleashed on Israel by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists. Innocent families were murdered in their homes. Babies were beheaded. Children were burned alive. Teenage girls were raped and then burned alive. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. We must pass my Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act TODAY.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sens. Joni Ernst & Cory Booker: President Biden Must Do Everything in His Power to Rescue American Hostages

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) in leading 46 bipartisan colleagues to demand President Biden continue putting his full attention on the freeing of American hostages that were taken by Hamas during the terrorist organization’s October 7th attacks on Israel and supporting Israel’s efforts to dismantle the threat of Hamas.

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Demands that Biden Permanently Rescind $6 Billion Payment to Hamas-Supporting Iranian Regime

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Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and their Republican colleagues at a press conference to support Israel and demand that President Biden immediately and permanently rescind the $6 billion payment he previously authorized to Iran. On October 9th, two days after the attack by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists began in Israel, Senator Scott joined Senator Blackburn in leading 18 of their Senate Republican colleagues in calling on President Biden and the State Department to immediately rescind the waivers that allowed Iranian funds to be converted and moved to more accessible bank accounts, as well as work with Qatar to immediately freeze the accounts containing these funds.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The terror and devastation unleashed on Israel by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists has rightly horrified the world. More than 1,400 innocent people, including at least 30 Americans, were brutally murdered. Not since the Holocaust has the world witnessed such a brutal attack on the Jewish people. The most important thing for America to do right now is to STAND WITH ISRAEL. It was foolish for the U.S. to ever move this money, and now we need to formally rescind these funds so they never get to the evil Iranian regime and make clear that the United States of America WILL NEVER tolerate terrorism and anyone that supports it. Anyone who says Iran couldn’t use this $6 BILLION to support terrorism is lying to you. It’s time to take these funds off the table for good, slam Iran with the most severe sanctions imaginable and hold this evil regime accountable for the terror it has unleashed on the world.”

Read more HERE. 

 

Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio & Colleagues: Ban Oil and Natural Gas Imports From Venezuela and Iran

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marco Rubio and their colleagues in reintroducing the Preempting Misguided Appeasement and Financing of Destabilizing Regimes Act to prohibit the importation of Venezuelan and Iranian crude oil, petroleum, petroleum products, and liquefied natural gas into the United States following reports from earlier this week that indicated that the Biden Administration had agreed to lift sectoral sanctions on the Maduro regime’s petroleum industry.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It is about time we strengthen our oil and natural gas sanctions against genocidal regimes like Iran and Venezuela, and I applaud the previous administration for leading the charge in this fight. It’s a no-brainer. The current administration is turning to genocidal regimes, like Maduro in Venezuela and Iran, in an attempt to bring in more oil, when Biden should put America first and build up our own energy independence. The U.S. cannot depend on one murderous dictator over another, we must depend on ourselves.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott: Reported Biden-Maduro Deal Disastrous for Freedom & Democracy in Venezuela

Following reporting about a new deal between the Biden administration and Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro to ease oil sanctions on the Maduro regime, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The reported deal that President Biden is offering to Nicolás Maduro is horrific for the United States and the people of Venezuela. Once again, this president has run into the arms of a ruthless, murdering dictator and done exactly what they wanted. Maduro works with Iran, Russia, Middle East extremist terror groups, Communist China and Cuba. All evil regimes that hate America. He, just like his comrades in those countries, is a genocidal tyrant and a liar. Yet, this is who Joe Biden has decided to trust. Lifting U.S. sanctions and allowing money to flow into Venezuela because you’re counting on the word of a mad dictator is the most moronic thing I could have imagined from this president. Maduro should never be allowed to run for office again. He’s only held onto power through sham elections and brutal oppression and now, he’s getting access to tons of cash to fund his regime thanks to the weakness of Joe Biden. We must be clear: when you give thugs like Maduro access to capital like this, it further destabilizes the region, as he will only enrich himself and continue to steal the Venezuelan people’s natural resources and silence opposition. If Biden thinks that he has solved the Venezuela problem with this ridiculous deal, he is dead wrong. The fight for freedom and democracy in Venezuela took a massive step backward today, but we will continue working alongside the freedom-loving Venezuelan people to bring democracy back to their country.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Sens. Rick Scott, Marsha Blackburn and Colleagues Introduce Bill to End U.S. Aid to U.N. in Hamas-Controlled Gaza

Ahead of President Biden’s trip to Israel, Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) in introducing legislation to halt all funding for the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Iran-backed Hamas terrorists have a long history of stealing U.N. resources to support its attacks on Israel. Joining Senators Scott and Blackburn are Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah).

Senator Rick Scott said, “I have long opposed American taxpayer funds going to the UN, which gives a global stage to the world’s worst human rights abusers and terror sponsors, was a puppet for Communist China as it worked to cover-up COVID origins, and has for years supported Iran-backed Hamas terrorism through its Agency for Palestine Refugees. America did the right thing under President Trump to stop U.S. funding for the UNRWA. We must pass this good bill to hold Iran accountable, stop Biden’s appeasement and halt this funding once again.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott & Tim Scott Lead Colleagues in Bill to Freeze $6 Billion to Iran, Probe Additional Iranian Assets

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), along with Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), to introduce the Revoke Iranian Funding Act to rescind the general licenses that enabled the release of the $6 billion to Iran and prevent the Iranian regime from accessing and using the funds held in Qatar to finance terrorist attacks against Israel or any other nation. In addition, the bill directs the Treasury Secretary to study all high-value Iranian assets around the world that are currently blocked by U.S. sanctions and provide that information to Congress, ensuring Congress has the information necessary to enact further targeted legislation, if necessary.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It was foolish for the Biden administration to ever move this money, and now we need to make sure these funds never get to the evil Iranian regime and make clear that the United States of America will never play nice with terrorists. Anyone who says the Iranians and their terrorist proxies couldn’t use this $6 billion to support terrorism is lying to you. It’s time to take these funds off the table for good, slam Iran with the most severe sanctions imaginable and hold this evil regime accountable for the terror it has unleashed on the world.”

Read more HERE. 

Senate Democrats Protect Hamas, Block Sen. Rick Scott’s Bill to Prevent U.S. Tax Dollars From Funding Iran-Backed Terrorists

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to request unanimous consent of his Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas ActThis legislation will ensure no American taxpayer dollars will be authorized to the territory of Gaza until the president certifies to Congress that these funds can be spent without benefitting terrorist organizations and that there are no hostages being held by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists in Gaza. Senator Scott reintroduced this bill earlier this Congress following Biden’s State Department’s admission in 2021 that American taxpayer dollars for humanitarian aid in Gaza could potentially fund Iran-backed Hamas terrorists. Just as they did in 2021, Senate Democrats again blocked the passage of this bill today.

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Meets with Jewish Leaders, Hosts Roundtable on Standing with Israel in Boca Raton

Senator Rick Scott met with Jewish and community leaders and hosted a roundtable at the Chabad of Central Boca Raton to stand in solidarity with Israel and Florida’s Jewish community following the horrendous attacks from Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists that have taken the lives of more than 1,400 innocent Israelis and people, including 32 Americans.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Since the horrific Iran-backed Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, that took the lives of more than 1,400 innocent Israelis and others, including 32 Americans, I have been in constant communication with Jewish and community leaders in Florida. My focus right now is on keeping Jewish Floridians safe, ensuring that America gives its full support to Israel to destroy Hamas and bringing home every hostage being held in Gaza. Earlier today, I met with a young woman named Natalie who survived Hamas’ brutal attack at the music festival in Southern Israel. Her story, just like those I have heard here today, makes it abundantly clear we cannot give up the fight, and we must continue urging the Biden administration to support Israel with whatever it needs, including munitions for its Iron Dome, to defend itself and destroy evil Hamas. The most important thing for America, and Florida, to do right now is STAND WITH ISRAEL.”

Read more HERE. 

Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio & Colleagues Demand Biden Expand Border Wall Construction

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio led their colleagues in sending a letter to President Joe Biden encouraging the administration to resume and expand construction of the border wall. The letter requests that the Biden administration resubmit its supplemental funding request to include specific resources for border construction following years of inaction, and amid a crisis at our southern border, the administration indicating it will proceed with the construction of approximately 20 miles of the border wall. In August, the administration sought funding from Congress to address the migration crisis on the border, but did not request resources to construct a border wall. The senators believe if the administration wants to actually combat illegal immigration, it must resubmit the August request with a specific request to expand border wall construction.

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE.

Senators Rick Scott & Roger Marshall Demand Any Aid Package to Israel Not be Jammed With More Ukraine Funding

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. in leading a letter to Senate Leadership requesting any federal assistance to Israel not be leveraged for more Ukraine funding. It has been reported that President Biden plans to pair tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine with any new request for federal assistance for Israel.

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE.

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Fox News:  Iran needs to be held accountable, Hamas needs to be obliterated: Sen. Rick Scott

Real Clear Politics: Sen. Rick Scott: I Will Do Everything I Can To Prevent Jack Lew From Becoming Ambassador to Israel, He Is An Appeaser 

Newsmax:  Sen. Rick Scott to Newsmax: US Must ‘Hold Iran Accountable’ 

CBS News Miami: “It’s crazy,” Sen. Rick Scott balks at giving $100 million in aid to people of Gaza

CBS News Miami: Jewish group rallies in Coral Gables, calling for Israel to call off attacks in Gaza

Florida’s VoiceScott, Rubio file to ban natural gas, oil imports from Venezuela and Iran 

Florida Daily: Rick Scott on Hamas Terrorism: ‘We Know Iran is Behind These Brutal Attacks’

Florida Daily:  Marco Rubio, Rick Scott Want to Prohibit Importing Oil, Natural Gas From Iran and Venezuela

NBC Miami: ‘You may not do this in our name’: 4 in custody as Jewish demonstrators rally in support of Gaza

The Floridian Press: Scott Addresses ‘Bidenflation’ and White House Failures

The Floridian Press: Scott Leads Senate Republicans Asking Biden to Rescind $6 Billion Iran Hostage Deal

Hernando Sun: Sen. Scott Pushes for Probe of Alleged Iranian Spy Ring

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Senator Scott in Aventura

Senator Rick Scott met with Jewish and community leaders and hosted a press conference at the Turnberry Jewish Center & Tauber Academy in Aventura to stand in solidarity with Israel and Florida’s Jewish community following the horrendous attacks from Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists that have taken the lives of more than 1,300 Israelis and at least 27 Americans. Senator Scott was joined by Consul General of Israel to Florida Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, Rabbi Mark Rosenberg, Rabbi Jonathan Berkun and other Jewish and community leaders.

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Senator Scott in Boca Raton

Senator Rick Scott met with Jewish and community leaders and hosted a roundtable at the Chabad of Central Boca Raton to stand in solidarity with Israel and Florida’s Jewish community following the horrendous attacks from Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Leesburg

Senator Scott’s team toured the Christian Care Center campus to learn about their services to the community.

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Senator Scott’s Team in  Kissimmee

Senator Scott’s team attended the Osceola County Communicators Network Meeting.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Orlando

Additionally, Senator Scott’s team attended the Orlando Jewish Unity Day-Stand With Israel Memorial, Prayer, and Solidarity Ceremony.

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The Democrat Party Left Us – We’re Now Republican

Karen and Joe lived in a peaceful community, and they were both passionate about politics and had always considered themselves Democrats. They believed in social justice, environmental conservation, and equal rights. But as the years went by, they noticed changes within the Democratic Party that left them feeling uneasy and uncertain.

Their story begins with a conversation at their favorite coffee shop. Joe sipped his coffee and looked at Karen, concern in his eyes. “Karen, have you noticed how much the Democratic Party has changed in recent years? It’s become so radical, and some of their policies seem extreme.”

Karen nodded, her brow furrowed. “I know what you mean, Joe. I used to be so proud to call myself a Democrat, but now it feels like the party has shifted too far to the left. I don’t even recognize it anymore.”

Their concerns weren’t born out of disagreement with core values but from a sense that the party they had once aligned with had moved away from its original principles of unity, compromise, and representation of diverse perspectives.

One evening, they decided to attend a local Republican Club meeting, driven by their curiosity to explore alternative viewpoints. The atmosphere was different from what they had expected.

Instead of hostility or exclusion, they found a diverse group of people willing to engage in respectful and open conversations.

As they attended more meetings and met with local Republican members, they discovered a range of perspectives and policies that resonated with their values. They learned about conservative approaches to issues like economic growth, limited government, and personal freedom, which seemed to offer a different path toward achieving the goals they had once held dear.

Their journey wasn’t about abandoning their principles but finding a political home that still upheld those values while offering a more moderate and balanced approach. They met Republicans who were deeply concerned about the direction of the country and who wanted to work together with those from other backgrounds to address challenges.

Over time, Karen and Joe officially switched their party affiliation to the Republican Party. They were greeted with open arms, and the local party members were genuinely excited to welcome them into the fold. The experience was a stark contrast to the divisive and polarizing political climate they had encountered before.

Karen and Joe found that they weren’t alone in their decision to switch parties. Many others in their community and across the country were experiencing a similar shift, searching for a party that embraced diverse perspectives and encouraged open dialogue.

Their journey was a reminder that the strength of a political party lay in its ability to adapt, listen to its members, and provide a platform for all voices. It showed that, regardless of one’s political affiliation, it was crucial to engage in constructive conversations and seek common ground for the betterment of the nation.

Karen and Joe’s story serves as a persuasive reminder for Republicans to continue reaching out to individuals who may be disenchanted with their current political home. It underscores the importance of building a party that is welcoming, inclusive, and open to those seeking a more moderate and balanced approach to addressing the country’s challenges.

Senator Passidomo Oct 19 Update

Words

This week, members of the Florida Legislature convened in Tallahassee for legislative committee hearings.

On Wednesday, I hosted a joint press conference with Speaker Paul Renner (R-Palm Coast) condemning the atrocities committed by Hamas and showing Florida’s strong support for the people of Israel.  We were joined by members of the Florida Senate and Florida House of Representatives.

“We are always proud to stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters and to speak out against not only the horrific terror attacks in Israel, but also the all-too-frequent acts of anti-Semitism and hatred we see here in our own country,” I said from the podium.  “We condemn these acts, and we pray for Israeli victory, and for peace.”

Speaker Renner and I issued a joint proclamation on behalf of our respective chambers that officially supports Israel’s right to defend itself, condemns the barbaric attacks by Hamas, and demands the immediate end to any direct or indirect financial support directed to Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran.  A copy of this proclamation will be presented to the President of the United States, each member of the Florida delegation to the United States Congress and the Ambassador of the State of Israel to the United States.

Florida has made it clear that we stand proudly with our brothers and sisters in Israel, we recognize their right to exist as a sovereign state, and we support their right to defend themselves from any and all threats.

 

Senator Ben Albritton Selected as Next Senate President

The Senate Republican Caucus selected on Tuesday Senator Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula) as Senate President-Designate to lead the chamber through the 2024-2026 term.  Senator Albritton was nominated by Senators Ed Hooper (R-Clearwater) and Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) and was elected by a unanimous vote of his Republican Colleagues.

I was proud to support my friend and colleague to be our next Senate President.  I have the unique privilege and opportunity to serve two more years in the Senate after my term as President comes to an end.  I know Senator Albritton will bring to this role a curious mind and boundless creativity.  I am confident he will lead this chamber with the same passion and energy that he has invested during his 13 years as a legislator. >> Watch My Remarks

In his speech, delivered after his election, the newly named President-Designate Albritton highlighted his roots in Florida’s Heartland, his love for his wife and family, his support for Florida agriculture and his vision of what Florida’s future can be.

Discussing his upbringing on his family’s citrus farm in Wauchula, President-Designate Albritton stated, “We made a conscious decision to protect our groves from the threats that came our way. That’s not dissimilar from the work we do here in the Florida Senate. We make a conscious decision to protect our state and our constituents from the threats that face our families, our homes, our schools and our economy.”

Looking toward his tenure as Senate President, President-Designate Albritton displayed his excitement to work with his fellow Senators and our colleagues across the Rotunda, led by Speaker-Designate Daniel Perez, as they look to meet the challenges of our time and deliver results for Floridians in every corner of the state.

 

Connecting Floridians through Key Investments in Broadband

The Florida Department of Commerce joined on Wednesday the Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism, chaired by Senator Jay Trumbull (R-Panama City), to provide an update on broadband initiatives across the state.

The Department of Commerce highlighted the critical nature of broadband in regard to Florida’s economy as it plays a key role in economic development – impacting workforce, infrastructure, housing and finance.

Through various important programs, the State of Florida is working to expand broadband services to Floridians across the state. The Department of Commerce highlighted the state’s recent investments to bring high-speed broadband to unserved and underserved homes, businesses and communities. With over 151 active projects in 60 counties, for a total investments of over $473 million, Florida is bringing high-speed internet to more than 309,000 homes and businesses.

Florida’s investments in broadband help to address a specific need across the entire state, but specifically rural Florida. With the expansion of Florida’s current broadband infrastructure, rural communities will be more connected than ever, improving quality of life and stimulating economic development, and providing new opportunities in healthcare and education.

 

Florida Leads the Way in Supporting Families and Communities

The Florida Department of Children and Families appeared on Wednesday before the Senate Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, chaired by Senator Ileana Garcia (R-Miami), to provide a presentation on the new Office of Community Services.

The Office of Community Services includes a variety of programs focused on care, prevention, and concentrated services to result in positive long-term outcomes for Florida’s most vulnerable children, adults and families.  Initiatives include prevention measures relating specifically to human trafficking, domestic violence, continuing care, and homelessness.

Through these critical programs, Florida continues the effort to increase vital services to support and protect our most vulnerable populations across the state.

 

The Florida Legislature will convene again in November for additional committee hearings.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office any time that I can be of assistance.

Respectfully,

Kathleen C. Passidomo

Senate President
State Senator, District 28

Florida GOP Announces Republican Gains for September

With all the chaos occurring across the world and the focus on the back & forth of the Speakers race back home, I have some great news to share about the Republican Party back here in Florida.

Little background…On August 1st, the Florida Democrat Party launched and hyped a $1 Million statewide voter registration effort.

We had been curious how their efforts would impact the state voter registration numbers and with the state releasing the official numbers today, I will share there was an impact on voter registration… As The REPUBLICAN PARTY continued to EXPAND our voter registration lead by adding another 37,588 to our margin from September 1st to September 30th. Embarrassing for the Democrats, but well deserved considering just how vile and radical the Democrat Party has become. Read below for the full story of where Florida is trending!

-Christian Ziegler
Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida

Florida GOP’s Voter Registration Surge Dominates, Leaving Democrats in the Dust!

In under five years, the political landscape of Florida has been transformed. In September alone, the Republican Party of Florida added another 37,588 to our voter registration advantage, bringing our lead over Democrats to 626,518 as of September 30. This isn’t just a shift; it’s a seismic movement. Florida doesn’t merely lean red; it radiates a deep, darker red.

STATEMENT BY FLORIDAGOP CHAIRMAN CHRISTIAN ZIEGLER:

“It’s evident that the Democrat Party is on the path to extinction in our state, and their recent initiatives, such as the ‘Take Back Florida’ campaign, seem more like a $1 million can of snake oil sold to their donors, rather than genuine outreach.

Despite the noise, the clear message is that Floridians cannot distance themselves fast enough from the radical Democrat Party. Why? Well, it turns out that allowing the invasion of our country from the south while indoctrinating, sexualizing & mutilating children as prominent members of their party carry Hamas’ water just isn’t popular in our state, and the monumental swing of 956,946 voter registrations toward the GOP since 2016 proves that.

This shift in voter registration is good news not just for us today but for my daughters’ generation as we further continue to establish a sanctuary of sanity and freedom here in Florida. With that said – while the momentum is no doubt on our side, there’s no room for complacency, and The Republican Party cannot relax until every Democrat is out of office and no Democrat considers running for office in Florida.” – Christian Ziegler, FloridaGOP Chairman.

Sen. Rick Scott – Come Visit Us at Mobile Office Hours!

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Come Visit Us at Mobile Office Hours!

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Southwest Florida:

 

Next week, the staff of Senator Rick Scott will be holding Mobile Office Hours to assist Floridians with federal services, including help with federal agencies and veterans’ resources. See some of the tools and resources Senator Rick Scott’s Office offers HERE.

Next week’s Mobile Office Hours will be on:

Thursday, October 19, 2023

at the following location:

Ken & Susan Meyer Center for Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs

10:00AM – 1:00PM

Ken & Susan Meyer Center for Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs

3645 Gateway Lane

Naples, FL 34109

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President’s October Message – Love One Another

Russell Tuff
President
Collier County Republican Men’s Club

Salute, Connect and Love One Another

It’s finally here! Our next meeting on November 3 will be a luncheon, and it is our 6th Annual Salute to Veterans. This is our major fundraising event of the year.

While we always have an outstanding and inspiring speaker at our monthly meetings, this annual event also provides the funding for our veteran services donations and our scholarships. Please plan to attend, and I promise you’ll go home feeling proud to be an American, and you will be contributing to the future greatness of our community and country.

Learn more here.

It’s New

Hopefully you can make it on Tuesday October 10 to our first ever early evening social event that we’re calling “The Right Connections.” This event was originally scheduled in September, but was canceled due to Hurricane Idalia.

In addition to our regular breakfast meetings, many members have expressed an interest in meeting later in the day in order to have a better chance to socialize than is possible when one must leave to meet the challenges of the day after a breakfast meeting.  Learn more here.

To fill that niche, the Republican Men’s Club will be hosting a social at South Street Oven at Immokalee Road and Collier Blvd.

Promoting Republican Values

I am deeply concerned about the internal divisions within the Republican Party and our failure to uphold the Judeo-Christian values we often speak of. When any of us find ourselves criticizing fellow Republicans, we should instead strive to follow the commandment to “love one another” and remember the words from Corinthians: “If I don’t have love, I am but a clanging cymbal.”

Name calling such as “RINO’s” and other names because our fellow Republicans may hold minor differences in opinion, leaves openings for more policies by the Democrats, who seem to be able to overcome their differences and move even more to the
Left.

To achieve our goals in a Democrat-controlled Senate and White House, we must point out the shortcomings of the Democrat’s policies and highlight the benefits of implementing Republican values. We should focus on winning over the undecided 10% of voters through a message of love rather than belittling them. We already have the “right” leaning voters in our camp. We now have to get the moderates, and those more left leaning that have had enough of the destruction being promoted, such as men competing in women’s sports, boys in girl’s bathrooms, our overwhelmed borders, and Bidenflation causing $700 additional monthly expenses to the average household. I could go on and on.

This approach is essential for reclaiming our country and living in accordance with the cherished values we hold dear.

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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Dear Fellow Floridian,

Each quarter, I am grateful for the opportunity to support the incredible organizations serving our state and community by donating my Senate salary.

This quarter, Ann and I have the privilege of supporting the work of Second Harvest of the Big Bend, Citrus County Family Resource Center and the Cedar Key Food Pantry, and all these organizations have done for their communities and families after Hurricane Idalia.

After any major storm like Idalia, you see devastation and destruction, but among the stories of heartbreak, you see incredible acts of heroism, love and selflessness. That’s what makes Floridians so resilient, and these organizations and their volunteers are the perfect example of that. Despite facing impacts to their own homes and belongings, they jumped into action to open their doors and serve others in need. I have seen the good that their work has done firsthand during my visits to impacted communities after the storm.

I’m not done fighting to get those impacted by Ian and Idalia the relief they need to recover, starting with my Federal Disaster Responsibility Act, which ensures FEMA’s disaster relief fund is fully funded and our farmers get the block grants they deserve.

One note on the ongoing funding fight in Washington. We need to end the shutdown hostage taking. That’s why I’m fighting to pass the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, which would make sure the government never shuts down again, and No Budget, No Pay, requiring Congress to pass an annual budget & meet appropriations bill deadlines or forgo their taxpayer-funded salaries until the job is done.

When I came to Washington, I was hired by Florida families to make Washington work for them, and that’s exactly what I intend to do.

Read more about my fight to help Florida families recover HERE.

 

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

 

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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

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Sen. Rick Scott Discusses Fight for Florida Ag During Roundtable with Sen. John Boozman & Ag Comm. Wilton Simpson

Senator Rick Scott hosted a roundtable to discuss issues facing Florida’s agriculture industry and his priorities for the upcoming Farm Bill. Senator John Boozman, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Florida farmers joined Senator Scott for the discussion at Parkesdale Farm in Dover, Florida.

For nearly a year, Senator Scott has been fighting to deliver resources to Florida’s growers and ranchers by getting his bipartisan Block Grant Assistance Act to President Biden’s desk. This urgently needed legislation provides authority for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to issue block grants to Florida’s growers and all U.S. agriculture producers devastated by recent natural disasters. Following the devastating landfall of major Category 3 Hurricane Idalia, Senator Scott introduced his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act, which includes the Block Grant Assistance Act, to fully fund FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund and deliver support to America’s growers and ranchers.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Today, I was proud to welcome Senator Boozman to the Sunshine State so he could hear directly from Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and our state’s hardworking growers about what they need to succeed. As the Senate considers the upcoming Farm Bill, I am focused on helping our growers and ranchers by cutting red tape, encouraging buy-America requirements, and strengthening disaster relief aid so folks can recover from natural disasters that have impacted Florida’s farmland. Today’s roundtable made clear that while Florida’s agriculture industry is known around the world, things are tough for hardworking families in our state right now. Our growers and ranchers keep food on our tables and drive our economy forward – we must make sure that they have the resources needed to recover from the many challenges they’ve recently faced and thrive in the years ahead. That’s why I’ll be fighting hard to deliver for our growers in the Farm Bill and to make sure Congress finally passes my Federal Disaster Responsibility Act.”  

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: Rumored Disaster Aid in CR isn’t Enough, Senate Must Pass My Disaster Relief Bill

After months of fighting to secure disaster relief funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), Senator Rick Scott released the following statement demanding passage of his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act. This bill would fund FEMA’s DRF with $16.5 billion in addition to any funding the DRF receives in a continuing resolution, and deliver urgently needed disaster aid to America’s growers and ranchers. Reporting from earlier this month suggested that the continuing resolution being crafted behind closed doors by Senate leadership would provide $20 billion for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, $16 billion less than the agency has said it needs for disaster response and recovery efforts.

Last week, Democrat Senator Sheldon Whitehouse blocked Senator Scott’s request on the Senate floor to schedule a vote on his bill because it didn’t have Ukraine aid. With Senator Whitehouse’s objection, Senate Democrats denied the Senate an opportunity to vote on and pass this bill.

Senator Rick Scott said, “For months, Senate Democrats have stood in the way of my commonsense legislation to make sure that FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund is fully funded and American growers and ranchers can access the block grants they need to recover from natural disasters. Democrats said no to this proposal again last week when I asked on the Senate floor for a simple vote on this bill. Here’s the deal—Florida families aren’t taking no for an answer and neither am I. I’ve heard rumors that the continuing resolution will have $20 billion for the Disaster Relief Fund. That’s $16 billion less than what FEMA has told us it needs to be whole and continue showing up for disasters. That’s why my bill would authorize additional funding—on top of whatever funding is in the CR—so we can deliver urgently needed supplemental disaster funding for families in Florida, California, Hawaii and other states recently impacted by disasters, as well as block grants for American farmers. FEMA said it needs $36 billion and anything less than that is simply inadequate and will cause more pain for hardworking Americans. I will not yield to more Washington dysfunction. I will raise hell until the Senate does right by American families and puts Americans above foreign aid and votes on my commonsense disaster relief bill.”

Read more HERE.

Following Bipartisan Push from Senators Rick Scott & Jacky Rosen, Israel Admitted to Visa Waiver Program

Senators Rick Scott and Jacky Rosen applauded the announcement of Israel’s inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program following their bipartisan push. The Visa Waiver Program allows individuals from participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Today’s announcement of Israel’s admittance into the Visa Waiver Program is great news and the product of months of strong, bipartisan support for Israel in Congress. I have been proud to work alongside Senator Jacky Rosen to urge the Department of State and Department of Homeland Security to take this action, which further strengthens the bond between the United States and our great ally, Israel, through increased tourism and business travel. Every step toward increased partnership between the American and Israeli people only reinforces the special relationship between our nations. I look forward to seeing the positive cultural and economic outcomes this development will bring.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Leads Reintroduction of Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act

Senator Rick Scott was joined by Senators Tom Cotton, Thom Tillis, James Risch, Mike Crapo, Ron Johnson, Josh Hawley, Ted Cruz and Eric Schmitt to reintroduce the Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act to reduce burdensome government regulations and more efficiently dispose of outdated, duplicative or unnecessary agency regulations. This legislation will create a mechanism to eliminate multiple regulations originating from federal executive branch agencies in a joint resolution.

The Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act is endorsed by Heritage Action, FreedomWorks, Americans for Prosperity, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the National Taxpayers Union, the R Street Institute and the Competitive Enterprise Institute.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Washington’s complete dysfunction is on full display. Everywhere you look you see a confusing web of outdated regulations, duplicative processes and burdensome red tape within our federal agencies, some of which haven’t been reviewed or used by these agencies for decades. It’s inefficient and a complete waste of tax dollars. Our Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act will streamline the federal government to make it work better for the American people. We did this in Florida when I was governor, cutting more than 5,000 burdensome regulations, and businesses thrived. With Joe Biden and Democrats’ overreaching and inflation-fueling policies hurting American families, it’s about time we bring this commonsense approach nationwide.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Donates Quarterly Salary to Organizations Helping Floridians Impacted by Hurricane Idalia

Senator Rick Scott and Mrs. Ann Scott announced that the senator is donating his quarterly Senate salary to Second Harvest of the Big Bend, the Citrus County Family Resource Center and the Cedar Key Food Pantry. These organizations have played major roles in their communities to support families and businesses following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Idalia. Senator Scott has donated his Senate salary every quarter since taking office in 2019.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Ann and I are grateful for the opportunity to support the work of Second Harvest of the Big Bend, Citrus County Family Resource Center and the Cedar Key Food Pantry and all these organizations have done for their communities and families after Hurricane Idalia. After any major storm like Idalia, you see devastation and destruction, but among the stories of heartbreak, you see incredible acts of heroism, love and selflessness. That’s what makes Floridians so resilient and these organizations and their volunteers are the perfect example of that. Despite facing impacts to their own homes and belongings, they jumped into action to open their doors and serve others in need. I have seen the good that their work has done firsthand during my visits to impacted communities after the storm. As I fight to make sure the federal government continues to show up until the job is done, these organizations are having a direct positive impact for Floridians every day and we are so grateful for their work.”

Read more HERE. 

On Hurricane Ian Anniversary, Sen. Rick Scott Demands Relief for Florida Families, Farmers

On the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian, Senator Rick Scott released the following video sharing an update and demanding the passage of his Federal Disaster Responsibility ActThis urgently-needed bill, which Senator Scott announced just days after Hurricane Idalia made its catastrophic landfall in Florida’s Big Bend, includes key authorizations and funding to make sure the federal government is a reliable partner to those fighting to recover from natural disasters.

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Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Leads Colleagues on Bill to Keep Border Agents Paid During Government Shutdowns

As the border crisis continues to rage out of control and the federal government approaches a possible shutdown, Senator Rick Scott led his colleagues in introducing the Keep Our Border Agents Paid Act. This bill would ensure U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and contractors are paid in the unfortunate case of a government shutdown. This legislation is cosponsored by Senators Jim Risch, Tim Scott, Roger Wicker, Dan Sullivan and Ron Johnson, and endorsed by the National Border Patrol Council. Read more from Fox News HERE.

Senator Rick Scott is also a cosponsor of the Pay Our Military Act and the Pay Our Coast Guard Act to ensure the military and Coast Guard are paid as well in the event of a government shutdown. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats blocked both efforts to ensure these members are paid for their work and held harmless.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I have been to the southern border three times since President Biden took office, and the crisis is worse each time I visit. Failed leadership created this crisis and we cannot allow the border to go unchecked, and our border patrol agents to go unpaid, due to a failure of Washington to fund government.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Leads Colleagues in Demanding Mayorkas Rescind Appointments of Known Disinformation Spreaders to Intelligence Group

Senators Rick Scott, Rand Paul, Ron Johnson and Roger Marshall, all members of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging him to immediately rescind the appointments of James Clapper, John Brennan and Paul Kolbe to the newly formed Homeland Intelligence Experts Group. The senators are also demanding answers on how these appointment decisions were made. These individuals are known purveyors of disinformation who asserted, without evidence, that the abandoned laptop of Joe Biden’s son and the voluminous records of incriminating information it contained were “Russian disinformation.”

Read the full letter HERE.Read more HERE. 

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, Senator Rick Scott hosted a roundtable discussion with Florida farmers who are feeling the pain of Washington’s dysfunction and reckless spending spree amid rising inflation and the failure of the federal government to provide block grants to Florida’s growers and all U.S. agriculture producers devastated by recent natural disasters. Senator Scott recently spoke on the Senate floor calling for passage of his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act, which includes his Block Grant Assistance Act, but Senate Democrats blocked it.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I was with Florida farmers earlier this week and they’re all feeling the pain of Washington’s reckless spending spree. Instead of fighting inflation and providing crucial disaster block grants to these folks, Democrats are leaving our farmers out to dry as they face soaring costs. While Senate Democrats While have been happy to green light TRILLIONS in reckless spending, their refusal to stand with American farmers makes you mad. It’s CRAZY and a slap in the face to these hardworking Americans who put food on our tables and keep America’s economy moving. Our farmers, growers and ranchers deserve better than to be used as a political pawn to get aid for a foreign cause. It’s past time to put the folks fueling our economy and feeding our families first. We must pass my Federal Disaster Responsibility Act NOW!”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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10 Tampa Bay: Sen. Rick Scott Continues Fight to Deliver Disaster Relief for Florida Ag Community

Senator Rick Scott hosted a roundtable in Dover to discuss issues facing Florida’s agriculture industry, his priorities for the upcoming Farm Bill and the urgent need for Congress to pass his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act and deliver federal disaster aid following major Hurricanes Ian and Idalia. Senator John Boozman, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Florida farmers joined Senator Scott for the discussion at Parkesdale Farm.

For nearly a year, Senator Scott has been fighting to deliver resources to Florida’s growers and ranchers by getting his bipartisan Block Grant Assistance Act to President Biden’s desk. This urgently needed legislation provides authority for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to issue block grants to Florida’s growers and all U.S. agriculture producers devastated by recent natural disasters. Following the devastating landfall of major Category 3 Hurricane Idalia, Senator Scott introduced his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act, which includes the Block Grant Assistance Act, to fully fund FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund and deliver support to America’s growers and ranchers.

Watch more HERE 

Fox News: Senator Rick Scott to roll out measure to ‘keep our border agents paid’ during possible government shutdown

Florida’s Voice: Patronis, Scott plan to host roundtable to combat Biden’s IRS

Florida’s Voice: Commissioner Simpson works with Rick Scott on passing pro-farmer legislation

Florida Daily: Rick Scott, Jackie Rosen Helped Get White House to Include Israel in Visa Waiver Program

The Floridian: Scott Celebrates Israel’s Inclusion to the Visa Waiver Program

The Floridian: Scott Reintroduces Bill to Cut Down on Govt. Agency Regulations

The Floridian: With the Farm Bill Looming, Scott Addresses Florida’s Agriculture Problems

The Floridian: Florida Congressional Delegation Remembers Dianne Feinstein

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Senator Scott in Plant City

Senator Scott stopped by Johnson BBQ to hear Owen Johnson’s story of how his business started and continues to grow 60 years later.

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Senator Scott in Dover

Senator Scott hosted a roundtable to discuss issues facing Florida’s agriculture industry and his priorities for the upcoming Farm Bill. Senator John Boozman, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Florida farmers joined Senator Scott for the discussion at Parkesdale Farm.

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Senator Scott in Marianna

Senator Scott also had the privilege of visiting Jackson County Sheriff Donnie Edenfield and meeting with local law enforcement officers to thank them for all they do to keep the community safe.

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Senator Scott in Jackson County

Senator Scott also joined Jackson County officials for the dedication of Governor Rick Scott Drive and to thank them for the honor.

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Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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Dear Fellow Floridian,

As I travel the state to talk to Florida families, inflation is the number one thing that comes up.

The unfortunate reality is that Bidenomics in action means another month of rising inflationthat continues to hurt Floridians. Recently, I heard from a first responder in Southwest Florida who told me, ‘… gas money to and from work is outrageous, and the cost of food has increased substantially. All of this makes it unaffordable to both live and work in Southwest Florida. I am unable to buy a home in the community that I serve…’ I also heard from an 82-year-old Floridian struggling in retirement because of Biden’s skyrocketing inflation crisis. As someone on a fixed income, who saved their whole life for retirement, she can barely make ends meet while already on a frugal budget. She wrote, ‘We elderly do not expect to live high on the hog. We are from the generation that learned to be frugal, but we can’t even afford do that now.’

On top of soaring prices from Biden’s inflation crisis, countless Florida families recovering from Hurricane Ian and Idalia are now facing other challenges as they recover and rebuild.

It’s heartbreaking to hear this from any Floridian and especially infuriating to hear it from someone who is putting their safety at risk to serve others or a family working to recover from devastating hurricanes.

Florida families need relief from Democrats’ spending spree and sky rocketing inflation and they need it NOW. As Congress considers yet another spending package, I’ll be fighting like hell to force Washington back to fiscal sanity and ensure Floridians get theresources they need from their federal government to recover.

To read more about my fight to Make Washington Work for you, click HERE. For a robust guide of the federal resources available to Floridians recovering from Hurricane Idalia, click HERE.

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

P.S. Sunday, September 17th, is the LAST DAY to apply for a U.S. Military Service Academy Nomination this year. Click HERE to apply. 

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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

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Sen. Rick Scott: We Will Never Forget

On the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement and video to remember and honor the Americans lost on that tragic day in 2001.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It has been 22 years since the devastating terrorist attack that shook the United States. I was in New York City on September 11, 2001, and saw the terror and devastation inflicted on our nation. The tragedy continues each and every day for the survivors, first responders and families of the victims. As we remember the lives we lost too soon during that horrific act of terror, I wish to extend my condolences and prayers for those mourning the loss of their loved ones this Patriot Day. The United States will always stand for freedom, democracy and opportunity. That will never be taken from us, and we will never forget.”

Watch the full video HERE.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING… Sen. Rick Scott’s Disaster Relief Bill Garners Support From Florida’s Sheriffs, Counties & Leaders

Earlier this month, following the devastating landfall of major Category 3 Hurricane Idalia, Senator Rick Scott introduced his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act to provide emergency relief for natural disasters, deliver support to America’s growers and ranchers and authorize tax cuts for disaster losses. Senator Marco Rubio joined as a cosponsor of the bill and Congresswoman Kat Cammack is leading the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Senator Scott’s proposal has been endorsed by Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Wilton Simpson, the Florida Association of Counties, and the Florida Sheriffs Association.

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Wilton Simpson said, “Florida’s agriculture community suffered more than a billion dollars in damage and losses during last year’s hurricane season, and they are now recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Idalia. I applaud Senator Scott, Senator Rubio, and Representative Cammack for bringing forward this critical piece of legislation that puts hardworking Americans first. The Federal Disaster Responsibility Act will ensure the final passage of the Block Grant Assistance Act, which will give the support and relief needed for our agricultural industry to recover from devastating natural disasters. It will also secure an expanded version of the Hurricane Tax Relief Act, that will provide disaster-loss tax relief to families impacted by hurricanes.”

Florida Sheriffs Association President and Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper said, “Senator Rick Scott and Florida’s leaders are commonly the first to act when it comes to responding to natural disasters because they know the impact of the devastation all too well. The Federal Disaster Responsibility Act will ensure that we are addressing disaster relief and recovery efforts so that essential resources are available to respond, recover, and rebuild.”

In a letter from the Florida Association of Counties, President Bill Truex wrote, “On behalf of the Florida Association of Counties representing Florida’s elected county commissioners, I am writing in support of the Federal Disaster Responsibility Act, which you and Senator Rubio have introduced in the U.S. Senate. We understand that Congresswoman Kat Cammack recently introduced the companion measure (H.R. 5343) in the U.S. House of Representatives…

“The substance and timing of the proposed legislation is critical to Florida. It ensures storm victims receive disaster relief. Additionally, the $16.5 billion included in the bill, which exceeds the Biden Administration’s request by $500 million, guarantees resources will be available for continued hurricane response, recovery, and rebuilding activities in our affected local communities. Moreover, in light of the agriculture losses from Hurricane Ian – estimated at $1.03 billion by the University of Florida – this legislation provides needed relief to a critical sector of Florida’s economy.

“In addition, we appreciate the language in Section 5 that limits the application of mandatory easements for shore protection projects when storm rehabilitation efforts are required. This important modification will ensure coastal communities, not only Florida but around the nation, can restore beaches ravaged by natural disasters with federal participation, move projects forward without delay, and provide needed protection before the next disaster.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio & Rep. Neal Dunn Introduce Bill to Honor Former FSU Coach Bobby Bowden

Senator Rick Scott announced the introduction of legislation in the U.S. Senate to award the late Florida State University (FSU) Football Coach Bobby Bowden, a legend and leader who passed away in 2021, with a Congressional Gold Medal for his contributions on and off the gridiron. Coach Bowden served as head coach of the FSU football team from 1976 to 2009. Coach Bowden’s teams at FSU won two national championships (1993 and 1999) and 12 Atlantic Coast Conference titles. Bowden posted a 316-97-4 record in his 34 years at FSU and was also widely revered for his humanitarian contributions. In 2011, he was awarded the ‘‘Children’s Champion Award for Leadership Development’’ by the Children’s Hunger Fund, and in 2004, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes organization began presenting an annual ‘‘The National Bobby Bowden Award’’ to a football player for their philanthropic work. Senator Marco Rubio is a cosponsor of the bill and Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. is leading the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

The Congressional Gold Medal seeks to honor those, individually or as a group, “who have performed an achievement that has an impact on American history and culture that is likely to be recognized as a major achievement in the recipient’s field long after the achievement.” It is Congress’ highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions.

Senator Rick Scott said, “While Coach Bobby Bowden was a legend on the football field, it is the generations of students, athletes and countless others he led and served off the field, that will forever define his greatness as an extraordinary leader, Floridian and American. Coach Bowden will be forever a Seminole, forever a Floridian, and with this legislation forever honored and recognized by the United States Congress for his lifetime of service and leadership.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott on 0.6% Rise in Inflation Last Month: Bidenomics is Forcing Retirees Back into the Workforce

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 reckless tax-and-spend agenda. August’s CPI data shows that there has been a significant rise in inflation during Biden’s presidency, with CPI increasing 0.6% last month and 3.7% over the year in August 2023. Since Biden took office, inflation is up 17.3%. If inflation continued to increase at this monthly rate, CPI would be at 7.4% annualized.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Bidenomics in action means another month of rising inflation that continues to hurt Floridians. As I travel the state to talk to Floridians, inflation is the number one thing that comes up. I recently heard from an 82-year-old Floridian struggling in retirement because of Biden’s skyrocketing inflation crisis. As someone on a fixed income, who saved their whole life for retirement, she can barely make ends meet while already on a frugal budget. She wrote, ‘We elderly do not expect to live high on the hog. We are from the generation that learned to be frugal, but we can’t even afford do that now.’ It’s real people like this Floridian who are struggling that I wish the president would listen to and care about. As Congress considers yet another spending package, I’ll be fighting like hell to force Washington back to fiscal sanity. Since 2019, our population has grown just 1.8% but the budget is up 55%. That’s unsustainable, fueling inflation and must end NOW.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Rand Paul in Requesting Information on CIA Whistleblower Allegations Concerning COVID-19 Origins Investigation

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Rand Paul, Lindsey Graham and Ron Johnson in sending a letter to the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), William J. Burns, requesting information on the recent whistleblower allegations related to the CIA’s investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

According to a letter from the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic (Select Subcommittee) and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), a recent whistleblower testimony made by a senior-level CIA Officer contends that the Agency paid off six analysts that determined COVID-19 likely originated from a lab leak. The letter states that the CIA assigned seven officers with significant scientific expertise to a COVID Discovery Team. After their review, six of the seven members believed the intelligence and science available were sufficient to make a low-confidence assessment that COVID-19 originated from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. The letter asserts that the six members were given a significant monetary incentive to change their position, leading to the CIA’s public determination of uncertainty on COVID-19 origins.

“These allegations are deeply concerning and raise serious questions about the Agency’s investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the senators wrote. “For this reason, we request you provide our offices with the following information no later than September 25, 2023.” 

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott on PPI Inflation Report: Bidenomics is Ruining Floridians’ American Dream

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. Since Joe Biden became president, PPI has risen 17.6%.

Senator Rick Scott said, “With PPI inflation now up 17.6% since Joe Biden took office, small businesses across Florida have only one choice: raise prices or go under. That means that hardworking Florida families are continuing to suffer from high prices everywhere they go: the gas pump, the grocery store and their favorite local shop. It’s destroying their budgets and savings and making the American Dream nearly impossible to reach. I recently heard from a first responder in Southwest Florida who told me, ‘… gas money to and from work is outrageous, and the cost of food has increased substantially. All of this makes it unaffordable to both live and work in Southwest Florida. I am unable to buy a home in the community that I serve…’ It’s heartbreaking to hear this from any Floridian and especially infuriating to hear it from someone who is putting their safety at risk to serve others. As we work on government funding bills for the coming fiscal year, we have an opportunity to stop Washington’s reckless spending that keeps fueling inflation. I’m hell bent on getting that done and forcing Washington to finally work for Florida families.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott Celebrates Third Anniversary of Abraham Accords

On the third anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords, Senator Rick Scott shared his Fox News op-ed, originally published on July 14, emphasizing the importance of Israel as America’s ally in the Middle East and the significance of the Accords in fostering peace throughout the region and beyond. Earlier this year, Senator Scott visited Israel, Bahrain and the UAE where he met with leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In his op-ed, Senator Scott praises the progress achieved under the Abraham Accords and stresses the need for U.S. policy to be rooted in America’s security interests. Read more about Senator Scott’s visit to Israel HERE.

Read more HERE. 

VIDEO RELEASE Sen. Rick Scott Celebrates Florida’s Hispanic Communities During Hispanic Heritage Month

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In recognition and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Senator Rick Scott released a video featuring Hispanic leaders and entrepreneurs from Florida’s Puerto Rican, Cuban, Venezuelan, Colombian, and Nicaraguan communities. In the video, Senator Scott highlights and celebrates the incredible people, stories, and contributions of the Hispanic community that have shaped Florida’s history and helped to make the Sunshine State an incredible melting pot and the best place in the nation to live, work and raise a family.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As we mark the first day of this special month, I want to highlight some of the many Hispanic Floridians, who with their hard work and dedication, have helped make Florida the best place in the country to live, work and visit. Their contributions have become icons in Florida, and everyone should know the story behind them. Thank you to the Puerto Ricans, Cubans, Colombians, Venezuelans, Nicaraguans, and the entire Hispanic community in Florida for demonstrating with actions the importance of fighting for freedom and democracy, for never resting until you achieve your dreams and for enriching our state with your wonderful culture. ¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana!”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Sen. Rick Scott & Colleagues to President Biden: Deny Evil Regimes’ Visa Requests for UN General Assembly

Senator Rick Scott led two letters with his colleagues to President Biden demanding that his administration deny visas for Cuban dictator Miguel Díaz-Canel, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and their staff to attend the United Nations General Assembly in September.

Read more HERE.

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 following the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) releasing Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) numbers for August, which showed inflation continued to rise. Since Joe Biden became president, CPI has risen 17.3% and PPI has risen 17.6%.

Earlier this week, following the latest CPI announcement by the BLS, Senator Scott released the following statement.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Bidenomics in action means another month of rising inflation that continues to hurt Floridians. As I travel the state to talk to Floridians, inflation is the number one thing that comes up. I recently heard from an 82-year-old Floridian struggling in retirement because of Biden’s skyrocketing inflation crisis. As someone on a fixed income, who saved their whole life for retirement, she can barely make ends meet while already on a frugal budget. She wrote, ‘We elderly do not expect to live high on the hog. We are from the generation that learned to be frugal, but we can’t even afford do that now.’ It’s real people like this Floridian who are struggling that I wish the president would listen to and care about. As Congress considers yet another spending package, I’ll be fighting like hell to force Washington back to fiscal sanity. Since 2019, our population has grown just 1.8% but the budget is up 55%. That’s unsustainable, fueling inflation and must end NOW.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sen. Rick Scott in the Palm Beach Post: Replenish FEMA but don’t tie that to Ukraine Aid

Following the Palm Beach Post’s September 6th opinion piece that advocated for pairing Ukraine funding with disaster funding following the landfall of Major Category 3 Hurricane Idalia in Florida, Senator Rick Scott responded with a letter to the editor reiterating his call to keep the two separate and the need for Congress to immediately pass his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act.

Last week, Senator Scott introduced his Federal Disaster Responsibility Act to provide emergency relief for natural disasters, following the devastating landfall of major Category 3 Hurricane Idalia in Florida’s Big Bend. This bill will ensure Florida families, agricultural communities and all Americans facing hardships following natural disasters are taken care of. Senator Marco Rubio joined as a cosponsor of the bill and Congresswoman Kat Cammack is leading the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

In the letter to the editor, Senator Rick Scott wrote:

“I’m glad to see the Editorial Board agree (Sept. 6) that Washington needs to stop playing politics and pass a bill that fully funds FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) now – something I discussed personally with President Biden when I met him in Live Oak last weekend. I, along with Senator Marco Rubio, have been fighting to get this done for months – long before Hurricane Idalia devastated the Big Bend as a major Category 3 storm – but it’s even more important now. However, the Editorial Board is mistaken in its assumption that it would be easier and better if every other member of Congress just passed President Biden’s funding proposal, including the $40 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine he is requesting. Not true at all.

“While the president’s proposal is far from being widely embraced and accepted in Congress, every major provision of our Federal Disaster Responsibility Act has been previously passed by Congress in response to a hurricane. The president’s proposal funds FEMA’s DRF at $16 billion, which is $500 million less than the $16.5 billion that our bill authorizes, and it does not include the other, critically important measures contained in our Federal Disaster Responsibility Act. After Hurricanes Irma and Michael, Congress gave growers access to block grants to make sure our agriculture industry had the resources needed to recover. Doing this again in our bill by passing the Block Grant Assistance Act would help growers in Florida, Georgia, California and Illinois. The president’s proposal does not include this.

“Unlike the president’s proposal, our bill would also pass the Hurricane Tax Relief Act, providing tax cuts for losses suffered in disasters. This would apply across the nation and include relief for taxpayers in New York, Hawaii, California, Illinois, Florida and others. Congress previously extended this tax relief following storms like Hurricanes Irma, Wilma, Dorian, and Michael. Finally, unlike the president’s proposal, our Federal Disaster Responsibility Act commits necessary funds and resources to America’s military installations to fully rebuild and recover from hurricane damage.

Funding for Ukraine should NEVER be paired with disaster relief for American families. We need to put American families first and immediately pass the Federal Disaster Responsibility Act.”

Read the letter to the editor in the Palm Beach Post HERE.

NBC: Sen. Rick Scott: Americans ‘will never forgive’ Biden if he pardons Hunter

Newsmax: Rick Scott Pushing to Shift Pharmaceutical Production Away From China

Daily Caller: GOP Senator Teams Up With Elizabeth Warren To Sound The Alarm On ‘Compromised’ Fed Official

The Hill: Rick Scott marks ‘Bald is Beautiful Day’ by welcoming Mike Lee into the club

Breitbart: Rick Scott: ‘Unbelievable’ Senate Democrats Holding Disaster Relief Hostage for Ukraine Aid

Okeechobee News: Scott asks officials, public to speak out against hate

The Floridian: Scott Demands Answers on CIA Bribing Agents Over COVID Origin

The Floridian: Rubio and Scott File Bill to Expand Florida’s Miccosukee Reserved Area

Florida Daily: Wilton Simpson Backs Rick Scott’s, Kat Cammack’s Disaster Relief Proposal

Florida Daily: Florida Congressional Republicans: Proposed Critical Habit for Rice’s Whale Must Not Impact Gulf Testing and Training Range

Florida Daily: Rick Scott, Neal Dunn Want to Honor Bobby Bowden With Congressional Gold Medal 

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Senator Scott’s Team in Naples

Senator Scott’s team attended the Collier County Sheriff’s Office 9/11 Memorial Ceremony in Naples.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Orlando

Senator Scott’s team also attended the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida iLatina Leadership Summit Gala in Orlando.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Bradenton

Another event Senator Scott’s team attended was the Tribute to Heroes Memorial Ceremony in Bradenton.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Miami

Senator Scott’s team also celebrated with Israel’s Consul General and South Florida Elected Officials for the kickoff of Rosh Hashanah.

 

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