Campaign Chair March Report

/0 Comments/in /by

Mike Lyster
Chairman Campaign Committee

The campaign committee has suspended their ground program to comply with President Trump’s directions and direction from the RPOF Trump Victory Team.

The good news, is we are continuing in the digital world and with phone banking. This is an area where the Trump/Republican technical and data sources are far superior to the Democrat party.

We encourage you to help us in our efforts and sign up for training. You can be helpful in numerous methods available.

We will continue to adjust our ground game in order to make the best use of the time available.

Sufficient funding will play a big role in this 2020 campaign due to the shortened timeline for engaging our audience. Please consider donating in order to properly fund the next step in the campaign.

2020 Campaign Committee
Mike Lyster

Chairman’s Message March 2020

/0 Comments/in /by

Russell Tuff
Collier County Republican Chairman

As a community and as the Republican Party, we have listened to and are following the directions given to us by our President Donald J. Trump to not hold our gatherings with more than 10 people and remain 6 ft apart if gathering.

It is a time to remember and keep in touch with our own members. Let them know we are thinking of them and caring for them. It is time to pray for each other, our nation and God’s worldly community.

If you have fellow CCREC members you are thinking about, please reach out to contact them and let them know we are thinking of them.
If you don’t know how to contact them, please email me chairman@colliergop.org and I will provide their contact information.

Below you will find updates on our plans to move forward as a community and as the local Republican Party.

Trump Victory Training – Sign Up Now

/0 Comments/in /by

In 2016, we saw the greatest grassroots movement this country has ever seen. Together, we elected President Donald J. Trump and put AMERICA FIRST. Now, we need your help to KEEP AMERICA GREAT.

Once again, this campaign will be powered by grassroots supporters like YOU who will help us fight back against the radical socialist Democrats who want to rollback our America First agenda. We cannot win this election without your help. Together, we can make history again.

Will you join our movement and sign up to volunteer today?

Fill out my online form.

Diaz-Balart Tests Positive for Coronavirus

/0 Comments/in /by

WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– In an abundance of caution, after votes on Friday, March 13th, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart decided to self-quarantine in Washington, D.C, and not return to South Florida because of his wife Tia’s pre-existing conditions that put her at exceptionally high risk.  On Saturday evening, Congressman Diaz-Balart developed symptoms, including a fever and a headache.  Just a short while ago, he was notified that he has tested positive for COVID-19. While in quarantine Diaz-Balart has been working from his apartment in Washington, DC. The Congressman said in a statement:

“I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better.  However, it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus.  We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times.”

Where Does The Money Go?

/0 Comments/in /by

Jan Face Glassman
Collier County State Committtewoman

As Republicans, we are fiscally conservative in both business and our personal lives. We minimize expenses in order to maximize available funds to spend.

It should come as no surprise that your Collier County Republican Executive Committee functions just like any other conservative business. As with any organization, it is important to understand how the funds are being used that you are asked to donate.

Legal Rights and Authority

  • The Collier County Republican Executive Committee is THE county organization that exists under the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) and the Republican National Committee (RNC). As such, the CCREC is regulated by the state and must file all required financial documents.
  • The CCREC is THE organization in Collier County that raises the funds for the general election campaign to elect all Republican candidates from the President down to every local official.

Where the Funds Go

These funds are used to rent office space, to purchase supplies, to fund campaign collateral such as palm cards, bumper stickers, and lawn signs, and to promote the candidates and our Party. No funds are used to pay any expenses incurred personally by the CCREC Board. The Chairman, State Committeewoman, and State Committeeman pay all of their own expenses to attend RPOF quarterly meetings, which are held at different locations around Florida. The Board, just like all our members, purchases their own tickets to attend CCREC events to raise the funds to support our election efforts. The entire body has to approve any expenditures over $1,000.

Local Clubs and Charters Subject to Reporting

The local chartered Republican Clubs and Women’s Federated Clubs play a critical function in engaging Republicans and helping to recruit volunteers. There are four local clubs that are chartered under the CCREC and RPOF:

  • Collier Men’s Republican Club
  • Naples Republican Club
  • Republican Club of South Collier County
  • Republican Next Generation club.

In addition, there are two women’s Republican clubs that are part of the Florida Federation of Republican Women and the National Federation of Republican Women:

  • Republican Women of Southwest Florida Federated
  • Women’s Republican Club of Naples Federated.

Finally, there is the National Hispanic Republican Coalition of Lee and Collier County, which is chartered under the RNC.

These 7 clubs work cooperatively with the CCREC to form our strong Collier County Republican Team. While each club is limited to spending $500 per election cycle, so most donate their $500 to the CCREC for campaign activities, these clubs serve a major function in getting Republicans involved.

As members of these clubs become more active, they often join the CCREC as Precinct Committeemen and Committeewomen. Many club members also actively volunteer their time at headquarters during the election period. These clubs do charge dues and do hold their own events. The majority hold monthly meetings with excellent speakers.

As with any organization to which you donate, it is important to understand a club’s use of funds, in addition to the $500 donation made to the CCREC for campaign activities.

Each Club has a unique local-community focus for funds raised that helps raise awareness of our Republican values to a broader audience.

  • The Men’s Club holds an Annual Salute to Veterans with funds raised going to scholarships for high school and college students who are active supporters of Republican values.
  • The Republican Women of Southwest Florida Federated focus their support on K-12 educational and on Veterans’ 501 c-3 organizations.
  • The Holiday Luncheon of Women’s Republican Club of Naples Federated is their annual fundraiser with funds going to various local charities.
  • The Republican Club of South Collier County has grown over the past year covering the expense of events and is now in a position to determine for what local charities they will use additional funds raised.

The Naples Republican Club operates on a basis of covering any speakers’ travel expenses and the cost of the meals served at the event.

In addition to the causes supported, there may be other operating expenses covered.. As a member, you should feel comfortable asking about any expenses.

When spending money to attend an event, It is important to understand where the money raised goes.

There are other great local, non-political organizations who bring in nationally recognized Republican speakers such as the Parkinson’s Association, the Cato Institute and the Heritage Foundation. It is fairly easy to understand where the funds raised at these go.

However, other events sponsored by other organizations may not be as clear cut. It is your right to ask if you are not sure where the proceeds from an event or a club membership are being spent.

You should never assume that you know nor should you be denied an explanation when you ask ‘where does the money go?’ It is your hard-earned money; you are a Republican; and you are fiscally conservative. The last thing you want to do is to waste money on any event or group that is not using those funds to meet your objectives.

In this election year, it is important to remember that the CCREC is the ONLY political organization in Collier County that can legally fund the local election activities, to once again turn out a record Republican vote in Collier County to re-elect President Trump, to win Congressional District 19 and 25, and to elect our County Commissioners and all County seats down the ticket.

There may be many organizations selling Trump material, only items purchased or donated through Trump Victory Team (RPOF) and Collier Republican Executive goes to the campaign.

Legislative Update – March 8, 2020

/0 Comments/in /by

Today marks Day 55 of the annual 60-day legislative session. The Florida Senate and Florida House of Representatives have reached an agreement on budget allocations, and yesterday we began conference committees to negotiate differentiations between the two chambers’ budgets for Florida’s Fiscal Year 2020-2021.

I serve on the Senate Appropriations Conference Committee on Health and Human Services, and we are meeting through the weekend until we reach agreement. Once the budget is finalized, it must be printed and provided to each member of the House and Senate for review for a minimum of 72 hours before we can vote on the budget on the floor.

Once the budget is passed, which is likely to occur after Day 60 this Friday, we can declare Sine Die and officially end the 2020 legislative session.

March 3:  Celebrating 175 Years of Statehood

On Tuesday, March 3rd, we celebrated the anniversary of Florida’s statehood. This year marks 175 years since Florida joined the United States of America.

 ICYMI: Update on COVID-19

Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management to activate to Level II to coordinate the state’s response to COVID-19 and provide critical support to the Florida Department of Health and county health departments.

DOH also announced yesterday a new presumptive positive case in Lee County.  The individual is isolated and receiving the necessary care. For the total case count, visit http://FloridaHealth.gov/COVID-19.

On Friday, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) released that two individuals have died and two new presumptive positive cases were confirmed in Broward County.

On March 1,  Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-51, declaring a public health emergency for the state of Florida following health officials learning of two presumptive (now confirmed) positive cases of COVID-19.

In conference calls with state officials, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) strongly recommended that citizens seeking testing should visit with their County Health Departments instead of going to the emergency room.

They urged individuals to call ahead to allow the facility to make the necessary preparations. This is an important step to prevent further spread of the virus among both the general public and the health care workers at the facility.

Below is a list of the local County Health Departments in District 28.

Local County Health Department Offices

Collier County

·         Immokalee Office: 239-252-7300

·         Naples Main Office: 239-252-8200

Hendry County

·         Clewiston: 863-983-1408

·         LaBelle: 863-674-4041

Lee County

·         Main Office-Michigan Clinic: 239-332-9501

·         Pondella Clinic: 239-461-6100 (for appointment)

·         WIC-Bonita Springs: 239-344-2000 (for appointment)

·          WIC-Lehigh Acres: 239-344-2000 (for appointment)

The Florida Department of Health has also opened a COVID-19 Call Center at 1-866-779-6121.  Agents will answer questions Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Questions may also be emailed to covid-19@flhealth.gov.

Email responses will be sent during call center hours.

Click Here To Read My COVID-19 Newsletter

Guardianship Legislation Unanimously Passes Senate

On Thursday, the Senate voted unanimously in support of my guardianship reform legislation.

This legislation seeks to reform the state’s guardianship program to better protect elderly individuals who are no longer able to care for themselves.

SB 994 adds additional factors for a court to consider when appointing a guardian, revises the requirements for a petition for the appointment of a guardian and prohibits a guardian from consenting to or signing a “Do Not Resuscitate” order or taking other serious actions on behalf of a ward without court approval.

What happened last summer in Orlando is unforgivable.  The accused took advantage of a senior when he needed care and protection.

Because of cases like these, Representative Colleen Burton and I introduced the measure this session to protect the rights and lives of seniors under the care of professional guardians.  Our vulnerable seniors need to know they can find care and justice here in Florida.

The bill is expected to be considered in the House of Representatives next week.

Senate Approves “Clean Waterways Act”

The Florida Senate approved Senate Bill 712: Environmental Resource Management, by Senator Debbie Mayfield.

This bill, known as the “Clean Waterways Act,” takes action based on the recommendation of the Blue-Green Algae Task Force in order to stop excess pollution and restore our waterways.

This legislation fights many sources of environmental pollution by transforming policy related to septic tanks, biosolids, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, and agriculture.  The Florida Senate is committed to improving Florida’s water quality in order to protect and preserve our unique environment for generations to come.

Senate Celebrates National Guard Day, Approves Legislation to Support Active Military and Veterans

The Florida Senate celebrated Florida National Guard Day at the Capitol by considering and approving several measures designed to solidify Florida’s reputation as the friendliest state in the nation for active-duty military, veterans and their families.

Senate Bill 294: Crimes Against Veterans

Senate Bill 294, by Senator Tom Wright, creates the “Florida Veterans Protection Act.”

This measure fights back against scammers who target our veterans by amending the “White Collar Crime Victim Protection Act” to increase criminal penalties for persons who victimize 10 or more veterans in attempts to obtain or successfully obtain $50,000 or more through their criminal actions.

House Bill 171: Postsecondary Education for Certain Military Personnel

House Bill 171, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Tom Lee, promotes uniformity in the application of military training and education toward postsecondary credit or career education hours by public postsecondary educational institutions. Additionally,  it establishes a fee waiver for active-duty members and honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

Senate Bill 662: Education and the Military

Senate Bill 662, by Senator Tom Wright, gives greater flexibility to students from military families who are transitioning to new schools.

The legislation considers a student a resident of the school district at the point in time when the parent is transferred or pending transfer to a military installation within the state rather than within the district, for purposes of enrollment and preferential treatment in special programs.

House Joint Resolution 877: Ad Valorem Tax Discount for Spouses of Certain Deceased Veterans

House Joint Resolution 877, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Tom Wright, proposes an amendment to the Florida Constitution to allow the homestead property tax discount for disabled veterans to transfer to a veteran’s surviving spouse upon the death of the veteran.

This is provided that the veteran had received the discount.  The discount is available for veterans aged 65 or older who have permanent, combat-related disabilities.

HB 879, the implementing legislation for HJR 877, also passed the Florida Senate.

Senate Bill 7010: Open Government Sunset Review

Senate Bill 7010,  presented by Military and Veterans Affairs and Space Chair Tom Wright, saves from repeal the current exemption for the contact information of servicemembers and their families.

Specifically, the exemption would protect from public inspection and copying identification and location information of current or former active-duty servicemembers.

The bill stipulates they must have served after September 11, 2001, for the United States Armed Forces, a reserve component of the Armed Forces or the National Guard.

House Bill 197: Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

House Bill 197, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Aaron Bean, amends child welfare statutes to protect the rights of a parent, custodian or legal guardian who, because of his or her military service, must be absent from his or her child or from child-welfare-related court proceedings.

Ethics and Elections Committee Holds Final Confirmation Meeting of Session

On Monday, the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee met for their final meeting of the 2020 Legislative Session for appointment confirmations.

The committee confirmed Mr. Ryan Petty to the State Board of Education and Drew Bartlett as the Executive Director of the South Florida Water Management District.

Ryan Petty, of Parkland, is the senior vice president of business-to-business products for Cable & Wireless Communications. In honor of his daughter, Alaina – who was killed in 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School – he has worked to improve school safety in Broward County and across the country.

In 2018, Mr. Petty was appointed to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Commission, which was formed to analyze information from the school shooting and other mass violence incidents in the state. The commission addresses recommendations and system improvements.

Drew Bartlett was most recently the Deputy Secretary for Ecosystems Restoration at the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) where he was responsible for:

·         Overseeing statewide water supply;

·         Restoring and protecting Florida’s aquatic ecosystems;

·         Managing aquatic research laboratory analysis;

·         Monitoring funding water and wastewater infrastructure; and

·         Governing coastal protection and resiliency.

Bill to Assist Public Guardians Passes Senate

Senate Bill 344, by Senator Rob Bradley, would make clarifications in current law to enable public guardians to meet the needs of their incapacitated wards.

The bill would also clarify that public guardians are exempt from paying any court-related fees or charges for accessing public records.  The legislation would also allow courts to waive court costs and filing fees in proceedings involving the appointment of a public guardian or the estate of a public guardian’s ward.

A public guardian is appointed to provide guardianship services to an incapacitated person if there is no family member, friend or person willing and qualified to serve.

Public guardians generally and primarily serve incapacitated people who have limited financial means.

Senate Passes Resolutions Condemning White Nationalism

On Friday, the Senate passed both Senate Resolutions 214 & 222 to reject and condemn any philosophy that incites one group of people against another on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or disability.

Accordingly, the resolution rejects and condemns the philosophies embraced by white nationalists and white supremacists.

The resolution affirms that these philosophies are contradictory to the values that define the people of Florida and the United States.

Bill to Prevent Emotional Support Animal Fraud Passes Senate

On Tuesday, March 3, Senate Bill 1084, by Senator Manny Diaz, passed the Senate unanimously.

Under Senate Bill 1084, a person who falsifies written documentation or knowingly misrepresents the use of an emotional support animal commits a misdemeanor of the second degree. This charge could result in incarceration for 60 days, a fine of $500 or both.

The legislation would also allow a landlord to prohibit the animal if it poses a direct threat to the safety, health or property of others.

Landlords would be permitted to request certain written documentation prepared by a health care practitioner in a format prescribed in rule by the DOH.

If this bill is signed into law, the landlord could also require proof of compliance with state and local licensing and vaccination requirements.

The documentation for the support animal may not be prepared by a health care practitioner whose exclusive service is to prepare documentation in exchange for a fee.

Zachary Martin Act on Student-Athlete Safety Passes Senate 

Senate Bill 1696, by Senator Keith Perry, would add requirements to protect student’s health while participating in extracurricular activities and athletics.

Specifically, the legislation would require each Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) member public school to make an automated external defibrillator (AED) available in a clear location for each athletic session.

Additionally, a school employee or volunteer with training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of an AED would be required to be present at each athletic session during and outside of the school year.

The bill would require the FHSAA to make training and resources related to monitoring heat stress available to each member school. It would also require athletic coaches and sponsors of outdoor extracurricular activities to complete annual exertional heat illness training.

The bill has been titled the “Zachary Martin Act” after the local student from Riverdale High School in Lee County who suffered a heat stroke in 2017.   

Legislation to Enhance Public Safety Infrastructure Passes Senate

The Florida Senate approved Senate Bill 7020: Emergency Staging Areas, presented by the Senate Committee on Infrastructure and Security Chairman, Senator Tom Lee.

This legislation provides for the plan, design and construction of permanent Staging Areas for Emergencies (SAFE) as part of Florida’s Turnpike System.

SB 7020 aims to create a reliable and consistent approach to emergency staging and ensure that nothing stands in the way of critical supplies and assistance reaching communities struck by a natural disaster or an emergency situation.

The staging areas created through this legislation would be designed to accommodate the staging of a significant amount of emergency-related supplies and equipment; provide space in support of emergency preparedness and evacuation activities, such as fuel reserve capacity; and could be used during non-emergency periods for commercial motor vehicle parking.

Measure to Deliver Broadband Internet Access to Rural Florida Sent to Governor’s Desk

The Florida Senate approved House Bill 969: Broadband Internet Service, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Ben Albritton.

This legislation aims to bring reliable broadband internet connectivity to rural areas throughout Florida.

Specifically, HB 969 creates the Florida Office of Broadband within the Department of Economic Opportunity to lead efforts for high-speed internet installation within or adjacent to Multi-use Corridors of Regional Economic Significance.

This legislation will ensure broadband internet is available in rural areas so first responders can quickly and accurately reach Floridians during times of need on and around these multi-use corridors.

Delivering high-speed internet to Florida’s Heartland will help to revitalize rural communities, improve regional connectivity, boost business and educational opportunities, and enhance the quality of life for Floridians throughout the state.

Welcome to the Florida Senate

The Florida Senate welcomed the following groups to the Capitol:

·         Florida National Guard

·         Florida Parent Educators Association

·         Florida Public Archaeology Network

It was wonderful to meet with State Attorney Amira Fox this week.

It was great to meet with members of the Salvation Army Area Command for Lee and Collier County. Major and Mrs. Carlyle Gargis, and Michael Welch of the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Lehigh Acres stopped by the office this week.  Major Gargis gave the opening prayer in the Florida Senate this  Wednesday.

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

Kathleen C. Passidomo

Senate Majority Leader
State Senator, District 28

Naples Office:

3299 East Tamiami Trail
Suite 203
Naples, FL 34112
239-417-6205

LaBelle Office:

25 East Hickpochee Avenue
Room J-126
LaBelle, FL 33935
863-674-7122

Tallahassee Office:

330 Senate Office Building
Tallahassee, FL 32339
850-487-5028

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review March 6, 2020

/0 Comments/in /by

This week, Senator Rick Scott and his colleagues worked to pass the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, which provides $8.3 billion to combat the threat of the Chinese Coronavirus. The bill includes funding for laboratory testing to detect positive cases, an expansion of telehealth services in Florida, vaccine research and development, medical supplies for states and localities for emergency health response, and mitigation of shortages of medical products in the supply chain.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The threat of the Chinese Coronavirus is not going away. In the face of a public health crisis, I’m proud my colleagues joined together to give the Administration the resources it needs to protect Americans. This funding is critical to help federal, state and local governments continue to do everything possible to prepare for and prevent the spread of the Chinese Coronavirus in the United States.”

Also this week, Senator Rick Scott introduced:

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

Image

Sen. Rick Scott to DHS: Increase Screenings at Florida Airports to Protect Against Spread of Chinese Coronavirus

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement calling for increased screening at all of Florida’s international airports following reports of two individuals testing  positive for the Chinese Coronavirus in Florida, as well as the increased number of cases in Latin America to include two cases in Mexico, two cases in Brazil, one case in the Dominican Republic and one case in Ecuador.

Senator Rick Scott said, “My top priority is the health of Floridians. I’m calling on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to immediately increase screening procedures at every one of Florida’s international airports. We must also work with the newly-infected countries to make sure they are conducting proper screenings of outgoing passengers. With new cases reported in Florida, as well as the increased threat of the Chinese Coronavirus from Latin America, we have to do everything we can to prevent the virus from spreading in our state – and that starts with the thorough screening of travelers. I’ve been in constant contact with federal, state and local officials, and am confident they have the resources to keep families safe, but everyone must stay vigilant.” Read more HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott Calls on DOJ, Treasury to Investigate Lobbying Firm Representing Maduro Regime

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to Treasury Secretary Mnuchin and Attorney General Barr calling for an investigation of the lobbying firm Amsterdam & Partners LLP after the firm took over a contract to work on behalf of Nicolas Maduro’s brutal regime in Venezuela. Senator Scott wants the agencies to look into the services to be performed and the source of the money paid to Amsterdam & Partners to determine if it violates the sanctions imposed against the Maduro regime and whether there is any effort to circumvent FARA regulations. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott: Anyone with Symptoms Should be Able to Get Tested for Chinese Coronavirus for Free

As cases of the Chinese Coronavirus continue to climb in the United States, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement calling for free tests for anyone experiencing symptoms.

Senator Rick Scott said, “We are facing a public health crisis. Nothing should get in the way of Americans’ ability to protect themselves and get tested for the Chinese Coronavirus – especially cost. Anyone experiencing symptoms should be able to get a test for free, and I’m calling for Congress to include funding for the tests in the emergency supplemental appropriations bill and pass this funding now.” Read more HERE.

—

Senator Rick Scott joins Colleagues in Urging Lithuanian Ambassador to Stand in Support of the Cuban People

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marco Rubio and Senator Bob Menendez in a letter to Lithuanian Ambassador to the United States and Mexico, Rolandas Kriščiūnas, urging the Lithuanian parliament to reject the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA) treaty between the European Union (EU) and Cuba. Read more, including the full letter, from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott joins Bipartisan Group of Colleagues in Calling for U.K. to Reconsider Huawei Decision 

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Ben Sasse, Senator Chuck Schumer and a bipartisan group of colleagues in a letter urging the United Kingdom’s Parliament to reconsider the decision to allow Huawei to supply some of the U.K.’s 5G telecommunications structure. In case you missed it, Senator Scott wrote an wrote an op-ed for the Washington Examiner warning the U.K. about the extreme risks associated with this decision. Read more, including the full letter, from Senator Sasse’s office HERE.

—

Senators Rick Scott and Ed Markey Lead Colleagues in Bipartisan Resolution Demanding Olympic Committee Move 2022 Olympic Games Out of China Unless Country Address Human Rights Abuses

Senators Rick Scott and Ed Markey introduced a bipartisan resolution calling on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to move the 2022 Winter Olympics out of China and rebid it to another country unless Beijing addresses its violation of human rights. This resolution was also sponsored by Senators Jim Inhofe, Dick Durbin, Martha McSally, Doug Jones, Marco Rubio, Tom Cotton, Todd Young, Marsha Blackburn and Mike Braun.

This resolution follows Senator Scott’s continued calls on the IOC to stand for freedom and urge Communist China to stop violating human rights, or find a new home for the 2022 Olympic Games.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communist China should not be allowed to host the 2022 Olympic Games while simultaneously running concentration camps, violating human rights and oppressing the people of Hong Kong. The Olympic Games are an incredible opportunity to allow the world’s best athletes to represent their countries and unite our nations, and should not be hosted by one of the world’s worst human rights abusers. Today, the Senate is sending a clear message to the IOC: stand up for freedom and urge Communist China to do the right thing, or find a new home for the 2022 Olympic Games. It’s not about politics, it’s about human rights.” Read more HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott: Bernie Sanders’ Support for Castro is Shameful

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after reports that Bernie Sanders told a political prisoner in Cuba that he didn’t understand why others criticized Cuba.

Senator Rick Scott said, “This is just another disgusting example of Bernie Sanders’ ignorance and undying support for the Castro regime. His continued refusal to stand up for freedom and for the people of Cuba who have endured six decades of atrocities, oppression and misery at the hands of the regime is shameful. This is not what America stands for, and every Democrat needs to do what is right – stand for freedom and condemn Sanders.” Read more HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott to DHS Secretary: Increase Protections at Florida Airports and Seaports to Combat Spread of Chinese Coronavirus

During a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Rick Scott questioned U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Chad Wolf on the agency’s plan to increase protection at Florida’s airports and seaports in response to the Chinese Coronavirus. On Monday, Senator Scott called on DHS to immediately increase screening procedures at every one of Florida’s international airports, as well as work with the newly-infected countries to make sure they are conducting proper screenings of outgoing passengers.See video from the hearing HERE or below.

Image

—

Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Secure U.S. Bases Act to Improve Foreign Military Student Programs Following NAS Pensacola Attack

Senator Rick Scott and Senator Joni Ernst introduced the Secure U.S. Bases Act to reform and improve foreign military student training programs following the terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola on December 6th, 2019. After the attack, Senator Scott called for a hard reset of the program and for all Saudi nationals training in the U.S. to be sent home until the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) completed a thorough review of the program. The Secure U.S. Bases Act requires a thorough vetting process before a foreign student enters the U.S.; creates a special, limited visa for foreign students; and establishes a review process so that DOD is not operating training programs in the U.S. that would be better operated abroad. 

Senator Rick Scott said, “The safety and security of American men and women in uniform is always a priority for me, and it should be a priority of our entire government. The tragic terrorist attack in Pensacola last year revealed an unnecessary risk. This terrorist should never have been allowed in our country, let alone on an American military base with easy access to American military men and women. The Secure U.S. Bases Act will make sure foreign military students training at U.S. bases are thoroughly vetted and monitored, and that our troops are protected and never have to experience a tragedy like this again.” Read more HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott on Senate Floor: We Must Keep Our Bases and Military Members Safe

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor about his Secure U.S. Bases Act, cosponsored by Senator Joni Ernst, to reform and improve foreign military student training programs following the terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola on December 6th, 2019. Watch Senator Scott’s speech HERE or below.

Image

—

Senators Rick Scott, Marco Rubio and Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Las Damas de Blanco

Ahead of International Women’s Day, Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Marco Rubio, Bob Menendez, Ted Cruz and Ben Cardin to introduce a resolution honoring Las Damas de Blanco, a women-led peaceful nonviolent movement in support of freedom and human rights in Cuba, and calling for the release of all political prisoners in Cuba.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Ladies in White have stood up against the oppressive Cuban regime for almost two decades and serve as a bastion for human rights in the face of communist tyrants. Their example inspires countless Cuban-Americans living in Florida, and they deserve our unyielding support as we continue to fight for freedom and democracy around the world.” Read more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

—

Sen. Rick Scott Calls on World Bank for Plan to End Lending to Communist China

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to World Bank Group President David Malpass asking for information on the steps the World Bank is taking to reduce lending to Communist China. There is no reason the World Bank should be lending to Communist China, a developed and wealthy nation that oppresses its people and denies their human rights. Read more, including the full letter, HERE.

Image

Sen. Rick Scott: Communist China Cannot be Trusted to be Honest About Coronavirus

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the New York Times in response to a recent op-ed by China’s foreign affairs commissioner in Hong Kong praising Communist China as a world leader in combatting the Chinese Coronavirus.

In the letter to the editor, Senator Rick Scott wrote, “Communist China cannot be trusted, and has not been honest about the coronavirus.

Mr. Xie claims that China responded to the coronavirus outbreak in record time. Yet he conveniently doesn’t mention that when the virus first began to spread, the Chinese government did what it does best: silence critics and detain people accused of spreading rumors. It was his Communist Party that reprimanded and threatened a doctor in Wuhan for warning others about the initial outbreak; the same doctor later died from the disease.…

No amount of propaganda can distract from the truth: China is willing to sacrifice the health of its citizens if it means that it can maintain its global image.”

Read the full letter to the editor in the New York Times HERE.

—

Fox News: Sens. Scott, Ernst introduce bill to protect US bases after terrorism at NAS Pensacola

Fox Business: Schumer’s Supreme Court attack warrants an apology: Sen. Rick Scott

Pensacola News Journal: Sen. Rick Scott proposes changes for foreign military students after NAS Pensacola attack

Washington Free Beacon: In Wake of Terror Attack, New Legislation Would Tighten Security Screening for Foreign Military Students

Stars and Stripes: Two senators want more vetting of foreign military students in wake of Pensacola attack

WEAR: Sen. Rick Scott introduces ‘Secure U.S Bases Act’ following NAS Pensacola attack

North Escambia: Scott Introduces Secure U.S. Bases Act Follow NAS Pensacola Attack

Breitbart: Josh Hawley, 14 GOP Senators Move to Censure Chuck Schumer for Threatening Justices

One America News: Wall To Wall: Sen. Rick Scott Discusses Huawei Bill And Coronavirus

Tampa Bay Times: Marco Rubio and Rick Scott want 10-year ban on drilling off Florida coast in Senate energy bill

Washington Times: Bipartisan bill urges Olympic committee to move 2022 winter games out of China

WPEC: Senator Rick Scott wants IOC to move 2022 Olympic games out of China

Florida Politics: Rick Scott blasts China human rights violations in bipartisan effort to move the 2022 Olympics

Florida Daily: Rick Scott: Feds Should Investigate Lobbying Firm Working for Maduro Regime

Florida Politics: Rick Scott wants Treasury, DOJ to investigate D.C. firm representing Nicolás Maduro government

Florida Daily: Rick Scott: We Should Offer Free Tests for Americans Showing Coronavirus Symptoms

Florida Daily: Florida’s Senators Urge British Parliament to Reconsider Letting Huawei Expand 5G

NTN24: “Todos los demócratas son socialistas”: Rick Scott

El Político: Rick Scott pide se investigue a la firma de DC que representa al régimen de Maduro

NotiTotal: Rick Scott rechazó los acontecimientos ocurridos en Barquisimeto contra Juan Guaidó

Image

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio Hold Roundtable Discussion on Coronavirus in West Palm Beach

Image

Senator Rick Scott and Senator Marco Rubio joined Florida Lt. Governor Jeanette Nuñez and community leaders in West Palm Beach to discuss local, state and federal efforts to protect Americans from the Chinese Coronavirus.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Just as we saw with Zika, local communities are the first to respond, and I was proud to join Senator Rubio, Lt. Governor Nuñez and local leaders in West Palm Beach to hear firsthand what resources and information they need from the federal government to prevent the spread of the Chinese Coronavirus. I was glad to see the President approve $8.3 billion in critical funding to help continue to prepare for and combat the Chinese Coronavirus in the United States. However, the threat of the Chinese Coronavirus is not going away, and we must keep working to protect Americans.”

—

Come Visit Us at Mobile Office Hours!

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 a full list of federal services HERE. Next week’s Mobile Office Hours will be held at:

Miami-Dade County 
Wednesday, March 11, 2020 
10:00AM – 1:00PM
Milander Center for Arts & Entertainment, Garden Plaza Hall
4800 Palm Avenue
Hialeah, FL 33012

AND

Pasco County
Friday, March 13, 2020 
10:00AM – 1:00PM 
Hugh Embry Library
14215 4th Street
Dade City, FL 33523

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

WASHINGTON, D.C.
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274

TALLAHASSEE
111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 942-8415
Fax: (202) 228-4535

TAMPA
801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040

NAPLES
Collier County Government Center
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890

WEST PALM BEACH
415 Clematis Street, Suite 201
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 514-0189

ORLANDO
Landmark II Building
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161

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 Boulevard, Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141

Diaz-Balart in Fox News: My family was forced into exile from Cuba. Here’s the truth for Sanders, Castro apologists

/0 Comments/in /by

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT 

Diaz-Balart in Fox News: My family was forced into exile from Cuba. Here’s the truth for Sanders, Castro apologists

 Rep. Diaz-Balart: My family was forced into exile from Cuba. Here’s the truth for Sanders, Castro apologists | Opinion

Fox News

Op-Ed: Mario Diaz-Balart

March 1, 2020

 Read the full op-ed HERE.

 Following praise of Castro’s Cuba by Democratic presidential candidate for president Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., I must take the opportunity to correct the misinformation and false claims so frequently touted by Castro’s apologists.

First of all, it is appalling to those personally affected by the Castro regime legacy of firing squads, torture, imprisonment, brutal oppression and terrorism to witness a U.S. presidential candidate seek to decipher some nominal good from the abject and all-pervasive evil of totalitarianism.

Many of those who support Sanders today may not have been around to witness the evils of communism over the past few decades. Sanders has no such excuse.

At the height of the Cold War, Sanders hobnobbed with the Soviets and established a partnership with the Sandinistas in a Nicaraguan region at war with the indigenous Miskito people. He should remember that when nuclear missiles in Cuba were pointed at the United States, Fidel Castro pleaded that Khrushchev launch a first strike.

Sanders should remember that the Castro dictatorship ordered the shootdown of two unarmed civilian aircraft in international waters, resulting in the murder of three innocent Americans and a permanent resident for which the general and two pilots were indicted in U.S. federal court.

Sanders should demand the return of fugitives from U.S. justice such as Joanne Chesimard, an FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorist, and terrorist bomb maker William Morales.

 Sanders should remember the “13 de Marzo” Tugboat Massacre of 1994 when the Castro regime rammed, sprayed and ultimately sunk a tugboat of 72 men, women and children who were attempting to escape Cuba in search of freedom. 41 perished, including 10 children. They were among the over 1 million Cubans who, like my family, fled totalitarianism.

Sanders should also remember the lives of those who died at the hands of the Castro regime in the past ten years, such as Orlando Zapata Tamayo, Juan Wilfredo Soto, Laura Pollan, Oswaldo Paya, Harold Cepero and Armando Sosa Fortuny. He should call for the immediate release of political prisoners Jose Daniel Ferrer, Mitzael Diaz Paseiro, Yanet Perez Quevedo and Miguel Diaz Bouza so that they do not suffer the same fate.

Collectivist systems of socialism and communism have brought devastation and tyranny wherever they have been tried. The regimes of communist China, North Korea, Cuba and Venezuela have used socialist/communist policies to justify the most egregious human rights abuses and their iron grip on power.

In less than two decades, socialism has managed to plunge Venezuela – a country with the world’s largest known oil reserves – into blackouts, starvation, medical shortages and utter destitution.

The Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation reveals that more than 100 million people have perished as a result of communism – from the purge policies of Mao and Stalin, including forced starvation, through the dictatorships in North Korea, Eastern Europe and Cuba.

Sanders should be asked about Communist China’s forced reeducation and labor camps, including the current oppression of Uyghurs who have been forced to abandon their language and culture and improve their “literacy” of the state-mandated Mandarin language.

With collectivist systems where individual rights are subsumed by the so-called “greater good” of the many, once unthinkable horrors become reality.

Sanders’ comments in regard to Cuba are particularly shocking given the Castro regime’s long and sordid history of threatening U.S. interests. The regime in Cuba partners with rogue regimes, terrorists and Anti-American interests such as the terrorist state of Iran, Russia, communist China, the Maduro regime in Venezuela, the FARC and Hezbollah.

In 2013, the Cuban regime was caught smuggling weapons to North Korea in the largest violation of international sanctions against that country to date. It has welcomed Russian espionage ships to Cuban waters to spy on the United States. Sonic health attacks against U.S. personnel in Havana caused traumatic brain injury to Americans and their families. For years, Cuba has maintained thousands of Cuban intelligence operatives in Venezuela in what the Organization of American States’ Secretary-General called an “occupation army” to oppress the Venezuelan people and sustain the illegitimate Maduro regime.

The Obama Administration chartered a course to legitimize the Castro tyranny. Thankfully, President Trump understands the danger of the Cuban dictatorship and has corrected this course.

I was disappointed that the Democratic majority in the U.S. House of Representatives chose not to consider such an important resolution condemning Sanders’ admiration of a murderous dictator, a resolution that should have enjoyed bipartisan support. It’s very alarming that the progressive wing of the Democratic Party is willing to turn a blind eye to this evil.

“The truth is the truth.”