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,

Rick Scott

United States Senator

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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.

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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 HERE. Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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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 HERE. Read more HERE. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 117^th 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.

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

Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation. 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.

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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’

WJNO: Senator 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

 

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.

Senator Scott’s Team in Groveland

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

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.

Senator Scott’s Team in Panama City

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

TALLAHASSEE 111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208 Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 942-8415 WEST PALM BEACH  415 Clematis Street, Suite 201 West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Phone: (561) 514-0189 TAMPA 801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421 Tampa, FL 33602 Phone: (813) 225-7040 KISSIMMEE  1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300 Kissimmee, FL 34741 Phone: (407) 586-7879 PENSACOLA  221 Palafox Place, Suite 420 Pensacola, FL 32502 Phone: (850) 760-5151 MIAMI  901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505 Miami, FL 33134 Phone: (786) 501-7141 NAPLES 3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106 Naples, FL 34112 Phone: (239) 231-7890 JACKSONVILLE 400 West Bay Street, Suite 289 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Phone: (904) 479-7227 ORLANDO 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410 Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: (407) 872-7161   WASHINGTON, D.C. 110 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: (202) 224-5274   Fax: (202) 228-4535

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,

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.

 

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 7^th 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 7^th 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

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 Act. This 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 Voice: Scott, 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

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.

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.

Senator Scott’s Team in Leesburg

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

Senator Scott’s Team in  Kissimmee

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

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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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

Come Visit Us at Mobile Office Hours!

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