This week, as Democrats in Congress pushed trillions in deficit spending on “infrastructure” with no accountability to American taxpayers, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor on how the reckless tax-and-spending spree is causing rising inflation and hurting American families. Senator Scott also led several of his colleagues in a press conference on how Congress can work to get government spending under control, including passing his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act to require that two-thirds of the Senate vote to increase the debt before approving any bill with deficit spending, and his amendment to the Senate Rules to require that all committee reports include inflationary impact statements so Americans can see the true impacts of government spending. Watch his speech HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott & Colleagues: Trillion-Dollar Infrastructure Package Continues Washington’s Insane Deficit Spending

Senators Rick Scott, Mike Lee, Ron Johnson, Ted Cruz, Josh Hawley, Marsha Blackburn and Mike Braun released the following statement on the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package announced this week:

“Congress can’t keep spending trillions of dollars we don’t have. The infrastructure package announced today continues the trend in Congress of insane deficit spending. Let’s not forget, this is just the first step in the Democrats’ plan to pass their $5.5 trillion tax and spend liberal wish list. Our nation is facing a nearly $30 TRILLION federal debt crisis. There are real infrastructure needs across the country. But, with growing inflation and many families struggling to financially recover from the events of the last year, it is not wise to throw fuel on the fire that is the raging inflation crisis and labor shortage we are seeing across America.

“Needless to say, we will not support this legislation.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott on the Senate Floor: Biden’s Inflation is Hurting Families

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor on how Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree is causing rising inflation and hurting American families. Senator Scott also led several of his colleagues in a press conference today on how Congress can work to get government spending under control, including passing his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act to require that two-thirds of the Senate vote to increase the debt before approving any bill with deficit spending, and his amendment to the Senate Rules to require that all committee reports include inflationary impact statements so Americans can see the true impacts of government spending.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Biden and the Democrats say they care about Americans – but they have done absolutely nothing to help families struggling to keep up with inflation. We are nearly $30 TRILLION in debt, but Democrats have no plans to slow down their spending. Now, Biden and the Democrats want to spend another $5.5 trillion on their liberal priorities, with no consideration to how this might impact families. Their message to the American people is clear: they don’t care about inflation. They don’t care that their reckless spending is causing prices to skyrocket. If that’s the cost of getting their liberal wish list, so be it. It’s time to wake up and take action to get government spending under control – our children and grandchildren are depending on it.” See more in his speech HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott, Leader McCarthy and Colleagues Request Meeting with President Biden on Cuba

Senator Rick Scott joined House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senator Marco Rubio, Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, Carlos Gimenez, Maria Elvira Salazar and other members of Congress in a letter to President Biden requesting a meeting as soon as possible to discuss how the White House and Congress can work together to end the oppressive Cuban regime and support the Cuban people’s fight for freedom and democracy. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott at Cuba Libre Rally: Where is Joe Biden?

Senator Rick Scott joined House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy and several of his colleagues at American Conservative Union’s Cuba Libre Rally to stand with the brave freedom fighters in Cuba and demand action from the Biden administration.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The United States stands with the heroic freedom fighters across Cuba denouncing communism and saying ENOUGH to the brutal Castro Regime. The oppression must end now. President Biden’s time to review Cuba policy is over. Appeasement is over. Where is Joe Biden? Biden needs to immediately shut down the illegitimate Cuban Embassy and expel all regime thugs disguised as diplomats. Biden needs to implement all technology to facilitate the free flow of information to and from the island. He needs to show up. I’m proud to stand with the brave people of Cuba and won’t stop fighting until we see a new day of freedom for Cuba.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Biden & Harris: Communist Cuba is Major Cause of Instability in Latin America

Senator Rick Scott issued the below statement following the release of the White House’s new report, Strategy to Address the Root Causes of Migration in Central America, which completely fails to mention the influence of the illegitimate communist Cuban regime on instability in Latin America. Earlier this week, Senator Scott pressed Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on when the Biden administration will address the Cuban regime’s violence against its people and actions to create instability throughout Latin America.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Biden administration’s utter failure to address the massive border crisis it created is remarkable. First, President Biden fueled his border crisis with failed policies of open borders and amnesty – driving apprehensions at the border to record highs. Now, Vice President Harris, the so-called ‘Border Czar,’ has again missed the mark in her new report. The illegitimate communist Cuban regime is undermining democracy throughout Latin America, yet Harris’ report doesn’t mention Cuba once. As the communist Cuban regime continues to prop up the dictatorships of Maduro in Venezuela, Ortega in Nicaragua and narco-terrorists throughout the region, it spreads its tyranny, oppression and violence like wildfire. Biden and Harris need to wake up. Continuing to ignore the facts will do nothing but bring more suffering to families in Latin America and across the United States as their border crisis rages on.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott and The Heritage Foundation Release Episodes 3 and 4 in ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ Video Series

Senator Rick Scott released the third and fourth episode of Road Trip on a Budget, his video short series in partnership with The Heritage Foundation. Episode 3 highlights how Washington’s reckless spending is causing rising inflation, which means the prices of every day goods are going up for families in Florida and across the nation. Episode 4 discusses how Congress can work to rein in wasteful spending and why we must fight Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree agenda to put America back on a strong fiscal path. See previous Road Trip on a Budget episodes HERE and HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Reckless government spending has driven America’s federal debt to nearly $30 trillion. Now, thanks to the insane tax-and-spending spree of President Joe Biden and Democrats in Washington, we are seeing six straight months of raging inflation. It’s time to face reality, ditch these foolish and wasteful multi-trillion dollar plans and protect American families from rising inflation. With the debt ceiling suspension expiring this week, on July 31, we need real spending reform, like my Federal Debt Emergency Control Act, before we consider raising the debt ceiling. We cannot allow Congress to continue mortgaging the futures of our children and grandchildren.” Read more HERE.

Watch the third episode HERE or below.

Watch the fourth episode HERE or below.

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Ahead of Debt Ceiling Suspension Expiration, Sen. Rick Scott and The Heritage Foundation Release Final Episode in ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ Video Series

Senator Rick Scott released the final episode of Road Trip on a Budget, his video short series in partnership with The Heritage Foundation. In the final episode, Senator Scott discusses how, as Governor of Florida, he worked to completely turn Florida’s economy around by cutting taxes and regulations and supporting job growth. Senator Scott uses Florida’s success story to show how Washington should model Florida’s playbook to rein in wasteful spending and put America back on a strong fiscal path. See previous Road Trip on a Budget episodes HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Congress has ignored the consequences of reckless spending, like raging inflation which increases the price of living for American families, for too long. The American people deserve better. With the current debt ceiling suspension expiring this weekend, our ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ series highlights how Washington got to nearly $30 trillion in debt, but more importantly, shows that we can get this spending under control. We have to stop spending recklessly on things we don’t need and invest in the things we do. We need to make government more efficient, cut taxes, reduce regulations and focus on creating an economy where businesses can thrive and create more jobs for American families. That’s the playbook. It worked in Florida and it will work for the entire nation.” Watch the final episode HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott Leads Colleagues in Rule Change to Expose the Impacts of Reckless Government Spending on Inflation

Senators Rick Scott, Jim Risch, Thom Tillis, Roger Marshall, Marco Rubio and Joni Ernst introduced an amendment to the Senate Rules to require that all bills passed by Senate committees include inflationary impact statements so Americans can see the true impacts of government spending. Congressman Jim Banks introduced the companion bill in the House last month.

Senator Rick Scott said, “American families are worried about growing inflation. I’ve heard countless stories from families across Florida that are having to cut back on purchases because of rising costs. We know that reckless government spending causes inflation, but President Biden and the Democrats have absolutely no plans to slow down spending or get our debt under control. It’s shameful and I won’t just stand by while they try to drive our nation further into the ground with these horrible policies. Congress must get real about the true cost on every American family that this recklessness brings and start spending responsibly. That’s why I’m introducing a proposed rule change in the Senate today to require every piece of legislation passed by a committee to include a report on how it will impact inflation. The American people deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent and each bill’s impact on inflation. I look forward to my colleagues supporting this measure to increase spending transparency.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: No Excuse for Biden’s Inaction on Moving the 2022 Olympic Games out of Communist China

As the 2020 Olympics Games continue, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement reiterating his call for a meeting with President Biden to discuss the horrific human rights atrocities occurring across Communist China and the Senator’s continued calls for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to select a new site for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

Senator Scott also introduced a resolution in February calling on IOC to move the 2022 Winter Olympics out of Communist China and rebid it to another country unless Beijing immediately addresses its egregious and numerous violations of human rights.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s been five months since I asked President Biden for a meeting to discuss my call to move the 2022 Olympic Games out of Communist China. Since my request he’s been totally silent. It’s shameful. As our nation watches the 2020 Olympic Games and cheers on our great athletes competing on the world stage, we can’t ignore the fact that in just seven months, the International Olympic Committee is choosing to host the games in Communist China – which is committing a genocide against the Uyghurs. President Biden has immense power to help facilitate the relocation of the games, and is refusing to do anything. He’s ignored my calls and he’s choosing to ignore General Secretary Xi’s horrific human rights abuses. If Biden truly stands for human rights, he will take the meeting with me and immediately begin this process by offering to host the games in the United States and providing the necessary federal resources to get this done. There’s no excuse.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to CDC & Biden Administration: Vaccine Mandates Are Latest Attempt to Try to Control Americans

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following news that President Biden is mandating vaccines for federal employees and contractors.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Democrats think government knows better than you about what is good for your family. That’s wrong. I got the vaccine, and encourage everyone to get it, but that is a decision Americans get to make. It’s none of government’s business. This is about personal freedoms and we all need to stand up against this gross overreach.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Buying American Supports U.S. Jobs, Shuts Out Communist China

In recognition and support of the annual Made In America Week, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement calling on all American families and businesses to support our local and national economies by buying U.S.-made products. Last year, the U.S. Senate passed Senator Rick Scott’s bipartisan “Buy American” resolution calling on Americans to support U.S. businesses and jobs by buying products made in America, from any American manufacturer.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As we celebrate this year’s Made In America Week, I encourage all Americans to support their local communities, our great small businesses and American jobs by buying products made here in the USA. While I’m glad to see President Biden continue this tradition, if he really cared about American families and jobs, he’d abandon his job-killing agenda and out-of-control tax and spend spree that’s bankrupting our nation and leading to inflation. President Biden and all Americans must also remember that every time we buy a product ‘Made in China,’ we are putting another dollar into the pockets of Communist China, bankrolling its oppressive government, which is actively committing genocide against the Uyghurs and attacking democracy in Hong Kong and Taiwan. The best way to grow and support American jobs is to cut taxes and regulations, pay down the debt and stop doing business with Communist China.” Read more HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Tom Cotton and Colleagues Call on President Biden to Deny Entry to Iranian President, Senior Iranian Officials

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Tom Cotton, Chuck Grassley, Marsha Blackburn, Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz in a letter to President Biden calling on him to deny entry visas to Iranian President-elect Ebrahim Raisi and other senior Iranian officials to attend the UN General Assembly in September. Read more from Senator Cotton’s office HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Require Big Tech Disclosure of Government Censorship Requests

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Marco Rubio, Bill Hagerty, Cynthia Lummis and Ron Johnson in introducing the PRESERVE Online Speech Act to combat the censorship coordination between big tech companies and governments across the globe, including the Biden Administration.

Senator Rick Scott said, “We already know that Big Tech companies pick and choose which viewpoints are allowed on their platforms, and now the Biden administration expressed their willingness to help them censor the American people. That’s unacceptable. The federal government’s role should be to promote free speech of the American people, as protected by our Constitution, not limit it. This bill will hold Big Tech accountable and protect Americans’ rights.” See more From Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

 

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Jim Risch, Colleagues in Introducing UNRWA Accountability and Transparency Act

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Jim Risch and colleagues in introducing the United Nations Relief and Works Agency Accountability and Transparency Act . This legislation outlines a comprehensive approach to cease U.S. contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), a successor entity, or to the U.N. regular budget for the support of UNRWA unless the Secretary of State certifies every 180 days to Congress that UNRWA meets strict accountability and transparency criteria.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Just a few months ago, we saw Hamas terrorists attack our great ally, Israel. American taxpayer dollars should never be used to fund terrorist organizations like Hamas through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. It’s common sense. This bill works to cut off funding for this organization until significant reforms are made and we can guarantee that no taxpayer dollar will support terrorism or dangerous anti-Semitic activity.” Read more from Senator Risch’s office 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. As the wasteful, reckless spending of the Biden administration and congressional Democrats leads to growing inflation and rising prices of every day goods, Senator Scott is urging the president to end his failed economic policies and address rising inflation on American families. Read more HERE.

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Fox News: Rick Scott: Democrats ‘reckless’ spending causing inflation

Politico: Republicans urge Gensler to investigate Chinese companies

Newsmax: GOP Lawmakers Join Pro-Cuban Marchers at DC Rally of Support

Independent Journal Review: Sen. Rick Scott on CDC Mask Guidance: ‘Democrats Want To Use Fear To Control Us’

RealClearPolitics: GOP, Activists Press Biden to Do More on Cuban Uprising

The Hill: Republicans press White House on communications with social media platforms

The Daily Wire: ‘Alarmed And Suspicious’: Senators Tell Biden To Explain Crackdown On ‘Misinformation’

The Epoch Times: Thousands Join Cuba Freedom March Near White House

WFLA Radio: Senator Scott says Biden Administration is Ignoring Cuba

Spectrum News: Senators vote to begin debate on $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill

WFOR: Calls Continue For Cuban Embassy In DC To Be Shut Down

WFOR: ‘Libertad’: Thousands March In DC To Demand Change & Show Support For Freedom Fighters In Cuba

WPLG: Conservatives hold SOS Cuba demonstration in front of Capitol

The Floridian: Republicans Calls For Meeting With Biden To ‘Liberate The Cuban People’

Florida Daily: Florida’s Senators Want a VA Hospital Built in the Panhandle

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Sen. Rick Scott Speaks at Florida Sheriffs Association Summer Conference
Senator Rick Scott thanked Florida’s law enforcement officers for their bravery and hard work to keep families and communities safe.

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WASHINGTON —  Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement slamming Speaker Pelosi’s newly reinstated mask mandate in the House of Representatives.

 

“In the early days of the 117th Congress, I joined my Republican colleagues in demanding that truth return to the nation’s capital, especially in light of the showmanship and anti-science COVID protocols Speaker Pelosi then ordered. Here we are nearly seven months later, and I again call on truth in our nation’s capital regarding the Speaker’s recent reinstated mask mandate in the House of Representatives. Here are the facts: The basis of this decision comes from a study that hasn’t been printed yet, based in India and on a vaccine that isn’t even in America, and that failed peer review,” said Rep. Donalds.

“Throughout this pandemic, the so-called experts, big media, and Democrats have called into question the validity of public health and the objectivity of science, all while furthering their political power and using it to divide Americans. The Democrats are the only ones to blame for vaccine hesitancy. They spent the entire rollout of Operation Warp Speed calling into question the validity of the vaccine, and today their rules call in to question any incentive to get inoculated. I have said it before, and I will repeat it: I encourage every American to get vaccinated—but at the end of the day, it is the right of every American to decide to do so, not the government.

“To date, over 75 percent of those over the age of 65, the most vulnerable to COVID, are fully vaccinated, and we must continue to provide every American with the information and resources necessary to make the health decision that is best for them. Speaker Pelosi needs to stop the games. Let’s not forget, she flew in a COVID positive Democrat member to D.C. to ensure she had the votes necessary to become Speaker—this has never been about following the science; it has been about whatever works for Nancy.”

TWEET: It’s time we speak truth in the nation’s capital. 

 

Chairman’s Message

Planning for red tide is paying off

Governor DeSantis’ environmental foresight and commitment are paying off for Floridians as the state is prepared for the red tide growing off the Gulf Coast. The Governor, working with the Republican Legislature, allocated millions for red tide and blue-green algae in this year’s budget because they understand that these are long-term issues that also require rapid responses at times.

And because of that foresight, any state of emergency, as is being urged by some Democrats, would actually hurt Gulf Coast business and affected communities — and perhaps businesses statewide — by scaring away tourists and vacationers. We’ve seen it happen before in crises as the entire state gets painted as having a problem.

“Literally the only thing that would do is hurt some of these people,” the Governor said of declaring a state of emergency. Watch the clip HERE.

Read more HERE.

Cuba Libra

Governor DeSantis and Senator Marco Rubio, along with Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and other Florida Republicans, showed dynamic and passionate leadership during a town hall Wednesday night hosted by Sean Hannity in Miami’s Little Havana.

The focus of the town hall was Cuba Libra, highlighting the peaceful but giant uprising by the Cuban people determined to create a new government, a new Cuba, that has as its foundation freedom. The coast of Florida is just a few miles from Cuba and America can and should play a key role in helping the Cuban people in their quest to be free. So far, the rudderless Biden White House has been largely missing at this crucial moment.

But Florida leadership, exemplified last night, has been electric in backing the Cuban people and the Cuban Americans in Florida who have poured into the streets in support of a new Cuba.

Governor DeSantis has said Florida companies stand ready to get full internet into Cuba, past the communist government’s efforts to block it, and called on the Biden administration to rapidly approve the action. But President Biden is radio silent on it, reflecting the general confusion in the Democrat Party over how to view this freedom movement in a communist country.

Senator Rubio has been blistering Democrats online and in the well of the Senate, passionately making the case for helping the Cuban people. He is the most important, informed, and persuasive voice in Washington on Cuba, and he is moving the listless apparatus of D.C.

Watch the clip here:

Florida

Florida continues to advance childhood education as Governor DeSantis announced that Florida is investing $270 million in literacy initiatives throughout the state during the celebration of the signing of House Bill 3. This means that K-5 students who are reading below grade level can receive quality books at their homes.

The new law creates the New Worlds Reading Initiative, Florida’s first statewide book distribution program. In addition to the New Worlds Reading Initiative for distributing books, the state is also funding other literacy initiatives.

“As a father of three young children, I want every child to have the opportunity to achieve their full potential,” said Governor DeSantis. “The biggest difference we can make in setting Florida children up for success is making sure they know how to read.”

Read more HERE.

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Governor DeSantis celebrated the signing of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act this week. The legislation directs the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to encourage and promote investments in areas that protect and enhance Florida Wildlife Corridors.

To support these efforts, the Florida budget dedicates $300 million specifically to protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor. This funding is in addition to the $100 million that is allocated to the Florida Forever program.

“Today we celebrate another milestone of this year’s legislative session, which was a resounding success for Florida’s environment,” Governor DeSantis said.

The legislation has been roundly applauded by conservation and environmental groups around Florida.

Read more HERE.

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Governor DeSantis said this week he will continue the fight to free the cruise lines from onerous CDC restrictions by asking a federal appeals court to reimpose an injunction that would block restrictions on the cruise-ship industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor made the comments after a panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld CDC restrictions and issued a stay of the injunction. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody filed a lawsuit in April arguing that the CDC had overstepped, and did not have the legal authority to impose these regulations. In June, a Tampa-based district judge agreed and issued the injunction.

“We are absolutely going to pursue getting the stay removed, either at the full 11th Circuit or at the U.S. Supreme Court,” DeSantis said during an appearance in Central Florida. “I think most courts at this point have had their limit of the CDC issuing these dictates without a firm statutory basis. I am confident we’d win on the merits at the full 11th Circuit, and obviously I am confident we would win at the U.S. Supreme Court.”

Read more HERE.

 

ICYMI: In Case You Missed It

Governor DeSantis visited the Southern Border over the weekend to meet with Florida law enforcement officers who have been deployed to Texas to help with the border crisis.

The Governor also met with Texas Governor Abbott for a tour and to receive a briefing on the rise in crime and drug trafficking that Texas is experiencing because of the Biden Administration’s failed border policies. At the briefing, Governor DeSantis announced that the Florida National Guard will remain in Texas to provide additional border support until October 2022.

Florida law enforcement have assisted with the apprehension of more than 2,800 illegal immigrants in 23 days and aided in more than 100 criminal arrests for felonies, including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and stolen vehicles.

“We appreciate Texas stepping up where the federal government won’t,” Governor DeSantis said. “When Governor Abbott put out the call for help at the border, we immediately answered because we know that the success in Texas is America’s success.”

He added: “Of the individuals, our law enforcement have apprehended at the border, more than 70% said they ultimately wanted to go to Florida.”

Read more HERE.

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It’s been a rough week for Val Demings. She has refused to criticize groups like Black Lives Matter and radical leftists such as AOC, who defend the Cuban communist regime and blame the United States for the plight of the people of Cuba.

And then she failed a basic test on an issue that’s hugely important to Florida: whether she supports the Cuba embargo at the very moment the people of Cuba are rising up against the communist regime. After dodging questions and refusing to take a position on the Cuba embargo, she had to send a spokesperson out to clean up her mess.

You would think Val Demings, who wants to move up to the Senate, would be more versed on a topic this important to Floridians. It’s clear that Demings is not ready for primetime.

Even the media sees it: “…it still would seem like someone taking on a Cuban American incumbent should expect questions about the embargo and what she wants the Biden administration to do about the ongoing situation.” – Florida Playbook

That’s the opposite of Senator Marco Rubio, who has shown himself time and again to be a leader in the fight for freedom for the Cuban people. He knows what he believes and is bold in proclaiming it. Just the sort of Senate leader Florida needs.

Social Media Highlights

Make sure to follow @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen!

This week, as the courageous Cuban people led historic protests against six decades of repression and tyranny from the communist Castro and Díaz-Canel regime, Senator Rick Scott called on the Biden administration to provide the full support of the federal government to those fighting for freedom and rally the international community behind the Cuban people in this critically important moment.

Senator Scott released a message to the brave people of Cuba fighting for freedom and democracy through peaceful protests across the island. Senator Scott delivered this message standing in front of the illegitimate Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C., located on 16th Street, which will soon be renamed “Oswaldo Payá Way,” to call out the oppression of the Cuban regime and highlight the cause of dissident Oswaldo Payá.

Watch the video message HERE.

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Cuban people peacefully protesting against the oppressive, communist government of Cuba and calling for the freedom, liberty, and basic human rights they deserve. See more in the video HERE.

 

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Rubio and Colleagues to Introduce Resolution in Support of the Cuban People

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Marco Rubio and colleagues to introduce a resolution in support of the courageous Cuban people as they lead historic protests throughout the island against six decades of repression and tyranny from the communist Castro and Díaz-Canel regime.

Senator Rick Scott said, “This week, the heroic freedom fighters across Cuba have struck fear throughout the brutal Castro dictatorship and shown incredible determination in the fight to regain their freedom and put an end to the oppressive communist Cuban regime. For decades, the Castro regime has tried to spread communism throughout Latin America, and now, with the world watching, the Cuban people are saying no more. Now more than ever, the United States must stand strong in its support of liberty and democracy for the Cuban people and make clear that we will never stop fighting for a new day of freedom in Cuba.” See more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott: The U.S. Must Stand Strongly With the Cuban People Fighting for Freedom

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Sen. Rick Scott and The Heritage Foundation Release Episode 2 in ‘Road Trip on a Budget’ Video Series Washington Can’t Keep Maxing out America’s Credit Card

Senator Rick Scott released the second episode of his video short series in partnership with the Heritage Foundation: Road Trip on a Budget. Episode 2 highlights how Washington politicians have been driving up the national debt and maxing out America’s credit card with no way to pay it off. Senator Scott is demanding action, including the immediate passage of his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act, to help start paying down the debt and hold Congress accountable for its awful spending habits. See the previous Road Trip on a Budget episode HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The inflation we are seeing across the nation right now is the direct result of Washington’s wasteful spending. Inflation is a tax on America’s working families. Rising prices are devastating to low and fixed-income Americans. I grew up poor and watched my parents struggle to put food on the table. Instead of just hiking the debt ceiling every time Washington gets close to the limit, it’s time to start acting responsibly. With the debt ceiling expiring on July 31, we must tackle these issues head-on and chart a new and fiscally responsible path forward that protects families and our nation’s financial security.” Watch the second episode HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden Must Answer for his Growing Inflation Crisis

Following the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Senator Rick Scott released the below statement highlighting the devastating impact of inflation on Florida families and the need to end reckless spending and pay down the debt. June’s CPI data shows that there has been a notable increase in inflation every month of Biden’s presidency. Year over year, consumer prices increased 5.4% in June – a significant increase from the 5% increase reported for the 12-month period ending in May 2021 and the largest 12-month increase since 2008. Annualized, the monthly CPI growth rate reached 11.7% in June.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As inflation continues to grow under President Biden’s failed economic policies of reckless spending and ballooning national debt, families in Florida and across America are paying the price. Today’s CPI data shows that once again, for the sixth consecutive month, prices of goods are on the rise for Florida families. That hurts our low and fixed-income families, like mine growing up, the most. Gas prices are up nearly a dollar – up more than 45% since this time last year. Our country can’t continue down this path. Reckless government spending has consequences and it’s time for President Biden to answer for the growing inflation crisis he has created.

“Last month, I introduced the Federal Debt Emergency Control Act to bring down the debt and stop the reckless spending we have seen from Democrats. We must immediately pass this bill and start protecting our families and small businesses from further harm caused by failed liberal leadership in Washington.” Read more HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Ron Johnson and Colleagues on Democrats’ Partisan Spending Bill: America Needs to Invest in Infrastructure Without Out of Control Spending

Senators Rick Scott, Ron Johnson, Marsha Blackburn, Mike Lee, Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, Mike Braun, Cynthia Lummis, and Bill Hagerty released a joint statement on the Democrats’ multi-trillion-dollar partisan spending package:

“Our nation is nearing $30 trillion in debt. There is a day of reckoning if we don’t get our fiscal house in order. We appreciate our colleagues’ efforts to get a bipartisan deal done. But supporting this infrastructure deal enables the Democrats to pass their $3.5 trillion spending package. Joe Biden said it himself: These two issues are welded together.

“Everyone agrees America needs to invest in infrastructure. But with our national debt growing out of control and Democrats dedicated to passing a 100% partisan blowout spending package totaling $3.5 trillion, we cannot support any additional deficit spending on Joe Biden’s, Nancy Pelosi’s, Chuck Schumer’s and Bernie Sanders’ liberal wish list.

“We can pay for needed infrastructure without incurring additional debt by instead repurposing previously appropriated but unspent funds. We urge our colleagues to support an alternative approach and recognize that supporting an infrastructure bill that authorizes new spending also enables the Democrats’ $3.5 trillion tax-and-spend budget. We must stop mortgaging our children’s and grandchildren’s futures.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Secretary Yellen: With Debt Limit Suspension Expiring, Americans Deserve Transparency on U.S. Debt Crisis

As Democrats in Congress continue to fuel America’s debt crisis with reckless and wasteful spending, Senator Rick Scott wrote to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen requesting details on the Biden administration’s plans to address the nation’s out-of-control, nearly $30 trillion national debt. With the current suspension of the federal debt limit set to expire on July 31, the administration continues to withhold critically important information from Congress and the American people about the state of our government’s finances. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Chair Powell: It’s Time to Acknowledge and Address America’s Growing Inflation Crisis

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell expressing his concerns about the Federal Reserve’s lack of response to address its growing balance sheet, which has exceeded $8 trillion for the first time, and the growing threat of rising inflation on American families. Senator Scott has been clear on the need for immediate action and spending reform and has been calling for President Biden and the Federal Reserve to lay out a plan to address the threat our growing national debt poses to the U.S. economy. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Senate Passage of Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after the Senate unanimously passed the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, sponsored by Senator Marco Rubio. Senator Scott joined his colleagues in support of this bipartisan legislation, which will ensure that goods made with Uyghur forced labor in the Xinjiang region do not enter the United States.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communist China is committing genocide against the Uyghurs in Xinjiang and the United States must take a stand against these atrocities. No company should be doing business with Communist China, and they have the responsibility to make sure their products and supply chains are free from Uyghur forced labor. The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act ensures American families and businesses are not unknowingly complicit in Beijing’s genocide. I urge the House to quickly pass this important legislation and President Biden to immediately sign it into law.” Read more HERE.

 

Sen. Rick Scott in Fox News: Real police reform – ignore Dems’ radical policies and start with this commonsense step

Senator Rick Scott wrote an op-ed for Fox News on his support for police reform that improves community safety, protects law enforcement officers, and better serves families. Senator Scott outlines how effective police reform should start with professional accreditation to help hold officers accountable without undercutting their ability to keep communities safe.

In the op-ed, Senator Rick Scott wrote, “Right now, there’s a lot of talk in Washington about police reform. I am 100% behind police reform that improves community safety, protects our brave law enforcement officers and better serves our families. 

But, needed changes in law enforcement won’t come from the Democrats’ radical proposals like defunding the police. Undercutting our men and women in uniform has devastating and dangerous consequences. We’ve seen cities and police agencies across our nation retreat from effective policing and, as a result, violent crime is spiking. 

We can’t weaken law enforcement’s ability to effectively prevent and fight crime.

The villainizing of our men and women in uniform we’ve seen from Democrats in Washington and across America has consequences. When I was governor of Florida, we lost 51 law enforcement officers in the line of duty. Every one of them is a hero. The Democrats’ attack on our police is a disgusting insult to these heroes and all who honorably wear the uniform, and I won’t stand for it.

I sincerely appreciate the good work, my colleague and friend, Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., has done to advance the cause of pragmatic police reform in this country. I’ll continue to work with him and anyone else in Washington who wants to have a real conversation about finding solutions that create safer communities in Florida and across our nation. 

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If we want real, sustained, and effective police reform that changes agency culture, we need to realize that it won’t come from more lawsuits or transferring liability from officers to their agencies. Creating meaningful change requires accountability. There is, and has been, a robust police reform movement going on in America for decades that has been extraordinarily effective – it’s called professional accreditation. This is just part of the answer, but it’s the right place to start…”

Read the full op-ed in Fox News HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott, FGA President in Tampa Bay Times: Approaching debt limit deadline presents golden opportunity for fiscal responsibility

Senator Rick Scott and Foundation for Government Accountability (FGA) President and CEO Tarren Bragdon wrote an op-ed for the Tampa Bay Times on how Senator Scott’s Federal Debt Emergency Control Act can rein in Washington’s out-of-control spending and provide a concrete path forward to tackle the nation’s nearly $30 trillion debt.

In the op-ed, Senator Rick Scott and FGA President Tarren Bragdon wrote, “Currently the debt clock ticks well past $28 trillion, barreling toward $30 trillion. That’s more than $90,000 for every man, woman, and child in America.

Out-of-control government spending, debt, and labor shortages are contributing to rising inflation — a 13-year high of 5 percent — and suddenly government overspending and bad policy impact the price of everything, from gas to bread to plywood.

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As prices continue to rise, the Biden administration — especially with its recent $6 trillion budget proposal on top of trillions of dollars of the previous spending — has little intention of reducing the national debt or spending with more prudence.

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One is to pursue practical measures that make it easy and relatively painless to cut spending if we start now. The Federal Debt Emergency Control Act includes several provisions to do just that.

This commonsense legislation does not prescribe what spending or programs should be cut but instead provides members of Congress and Senators with incentives that deter bloated spending bills.

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The longer we ignore the debt problem, the worse it will become — not just for us, but for future generations.

A debt crisis is here. And it will be American families that feel the effects of their government’s lack of fiscal responsibility through inflation, higher costs, and rising taxes.

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With the debt limit deadline approaching, there’s no better time for Congress to do right by the American taxpayer and finally address the federal debt and reckless government spending. Let’s seize that opportunity.”

Read the full op-ed in the Tampa Bay Times HERE.

 

Following the Surfside building collapse on Thursday, June 24, 2021, Senator Scott and his staff have been on the ground in the Surfside community to talk to the people, families, faith leaders, and all affected by this horrible tragedy. His focus remains on bringing people together, supporting these families, and working relentlessly to get the answers these families deserve. If you or your family were affected by the horrific collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Senator Scott and his office are here to help. Please find additional federal, state, and local resources below, as well as contact information for our team HERE.

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Senate Unanimously Passes Resolution by Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio Honoring the Lives Lost in the Surfside Tragedy, Thanking Brave First Responders

The Senate unanimously passed a resolution by Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio honoring the lives lost in the horrific tragedy on June 24, when the Champlain Towers South condo building in Surfside, Florida, suddenly collapsed in the middle of the night and commending the bravery of the men and women who have risked their lives in search, rescue and recovery efforts. See more in the video below or HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I was on the ground in Surfside following the collapse talking to families, first responders, and members of the community. We continue to pray for the Surfside community, our Jewish community, the families and loved ones of the lost, and all of those working tirelessly to serve the Surfside community. The pain these families and all affected by this tragedy are experiencing is heartbreaking and unimaginable. In the face of tremendous loss, our first responders ran into the danger. They are heroes that came from across Florida, the United States, and from Israel and Mexico. We can never thank these brave men and women enough for their bravery and determination in the face of this terrible tragedy. In the weeks and months ahead, I will be relentless in the search for answers to make sure this never happens again.” Read more HERE.

 

Republicans from all over Florida turned out in record numbers for President Trump’s Save America rally on July 3 at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds to celebrate the birth of our great nation. The President delivered on the themes of freedom, patriotism, and taking pride in being an American. It truly is a privilege. Attending leaders included Congressmen Byron Donalds, Greg Steube, Vern Buchanan, Mike Waltz, and other elected officials, including RPOF Chairman Joe Gruters and Vice-Chairman Christian Ziegler. Although Governor Ron DeSantis was originally scheduled to speak, he called President Trump to let him know that he regretted not being able to attend due to the Surfside tragedy and what was at the time Hurricane Elsa which was threatening Florida. President Trump agreed with Governor DeSantis’ decision and asked the crowd to join him in a moment of silence to remember the victims of the Surfside tragedy. Watch the video here: https://rumble.com/vjcgm1-live-president-donald-j-trump-in-sarasota-fl.html