Dear friend,
I am grateful for everyone who has reached out to check on me and my team over the last 24 hours. We are all safe.
Early this morning, Congress certified the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. The results of our fair and free election - the will of the American people - is respected and effectuated. But yesterday’s events were shocking to the conscience.
It’s outrageous that people attempted to disrupt a peaceful transfer of power from one president to another. That's what makes America America. This domestic terrorist attack was incited by a president who continues with his lies and attacks the very heart of our democracy - a peaceful transition of power under our Constitution. Trump has always thumbed his nose at the Constitution, but this was egregious, and I am angry and I'm saddened by it still.
The first order of business was to ensure that the electors of the Electoral College from each state were accepted here in the Congress. Now it is evident that Trump cannot remain in office any longer. The Congress will have a lot of debate over what is next over the next two weeks. Unfortunately, Trump will always put his personal interest over the interest of America. He will not be satisfied and he will continue with his unlawful, unhinged conduct. And impeachment or the 25th Amendment may be a remedy. I am cosponsoring such resolutions.
I am hopeful that dangerous political distractions will end so that the country can focus on a speedy, fair and equitable COVID-19 vaccine rollout. The latest emergency relief package provided significant funds to states and local communities to ramp up the vaccine distribution effort. The Haley VA is administering vaccinations and Hillsborough County began scheduling appointments for residents 65 and over. While, the County filled its vaccine appointments, additional appointments are expected next week, and you can visit the county’s website for updates.
I am extremely frustrated over the lack of a comprehensive plan to tackle COVID-19 in the State of Florida, and the vaccine rollout is yet another example of Governor DeSantis’ inability to meet this moment. I have voted time and time again to rush resources home to crush the virus and will continue to press for a thoughtful and equitable vaccination plan..
Former Governor Rick Scott and Governor DeSantis spent years devaluing our public health system and demonizing the role of government. Now we are left with a hollow shell and leaders who are not up to the job. They fly by the seat of their pants and fail to help our neighbors whether in normal times or in emergencies. Even at this late hour, I urge the governor to come up with a coherent plan and increase his communication and transparency with leaders on the ground so that all of our neighbors have the latest and most accurate information available and the hope and confidence that can come with it. I am grateful for my local partners at Hillsborough County, the Haley VA, local hospitals, USF and the City of Tampa who continue to try to do their best with little support from the State to keep our neighbors safe and healthy.