Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) is reintroducing legislation to prevent United States security assistance from going to Lebanon until their government stops recognizing Hezbollah.

Creatively named the "Preventing Armed Groups from Engaging in Radicalism" (PAGER) Act, a likely reference to Israel's elimination of Hezbollah leadership via explosive pagers, Rep. Steube's bill terminates US security assistance to the Armed Forces of Lebanon until their government rescinds recognition of Hezbollah and its military wing.

Additionally, Hezbollah members must be banned from serving in the Lebanese government, which must also extend to affiliates and members of other Iran-backed militias. Moreover, such groups must be expelled from Lebanon, all weapons supplied by Iran and these affiliates must be destroyed, and any Americans exposing Hezbollah's influence and imprisoned by the Lebanese government must be released.

In his press release, Rep. Steube said, "While the world celebrates the demise of Hassan Nasrallah, the United States must remain vigilant to the threat of Hezbollah. Until the people of Lebanon can live free of Hezbollah's terror and persecution, long-term peace and stability in the Middle East will remain out of reach. As the Trump administration works to forge closer ties between Israel and the Arab world, Congress must do its part to contain Iran and eliminate its terrorist network. My PAGER Act will ensure US tax dollars never end up in the hands of Hezbollah."

Earlier in February, the Florida Congressman wrote a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, demanding the cessation of security assistance funding to Iraq for similar reasons.

As Steube explained, pro-Iran Shia militias that the United States funded to defeat the Islamic State (ISIS) have attacked US forces ever since, staging 170 attacks in just two years.

"Replacing ISIS with Iran-backed terrorist militias does not make sense and only fuels the onslaught of terror that the Iranian regime seeks to export. Furthermore, many Iran-backed militias in Iraq have not even been designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, including the Badr Corps itself," Steube fumed in his letter.

The post Steube Reintroduces Bill Preventing U.S. Funds Going to Hezbollah appeared first on The Floridian.

Every day, I put on my uniform in South Florida, knowing I might not come home. That’s the reality of policing in America today for all of my brothers and sisters in law enforcement. But it’s not just the inherent dangers of the job—car chases, violent criminals, and responding to active threats. It’s the disturbing trend of officers being deliberately targeted for attack simply because they wear the badge. This is why Congress must act now and pass the Protect and Serve Act, which would create a federal offense for those who intentionally commit violence against law enforcement officers.

For too long, we’ve watched as criminals have become emboldened, fueled by anti-police rhetoric that dehumanizes those of us who serve. I’ve seen it firsthand in Florida and all over this country—ambush attacks on officers, drive-by shootings targeting patrol cars, and violent criminals actively seeking to harm those sworn to uphold the law.

The numbers don’t lie. According to FBI statistics, law enforcement officer deaths and assaults have surged in recent years, with many of these attacks being premeditated. This isn’t just a crisis—it’s an all-out war on police.

The Protect and Serve Act is more than just another piece of legislation. It’s a vital statement from our federal government that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated. The bill would create a new federal offense for knowingly causing serious bodily injury to a law enforcement officer. In cases where the crime results in death, a life sentence could be imposed.

This isn’t about giving cops special treatment; it’s about acknowledging that when criminals target officers, they are attacking the rule of law itself.

Some argue that states already have laws to protect officers and punish violent offenders. But here’s the problem: state-level protections are inconsistent. Florida has strong laws, but what about officers in states where radical prosecutors refuse to enforce them?

The Protect and Serve Act ensures that justice is served regardless of jurisdiction, sending a clear message that violence against police is a national issue, not just a local concern.

I’ve heard the critics claim this law isn’t needed, that police officers aren’t truly at risk. To them, I say: Walk a shift in our shoes. Ride along in our patrol car in the middle of the night. Answer a domestic violence call where a suspect has nothing to lose. Stand at the scene of a crime when a crowd starts to turn against you.

Every officer knows the feeling of being a target. Every officer knows a brother or sister in blue who has been attacked simply for wearing the uniform.

When criminals believe they can attack officers with impunity, it doesn’t just put cops in danger—it emboldens lawlessness, making communities less safe for everyone.

The Protect and Serve Act doesn’t eliminate the risks of policing. But it sends a powerful message that attacking law enforcement officers is attacking the foundation of public safety itself.

It gives prosecutors the tools to hold violent criminals accountable, no matter where they are. It ensures that officers who make the ultimate sacrifice are honored with more than just words, but with real legal consequences for those who seek to harm them.

I love my job. I love serving my community. I took an oath to protect and serve, knowing the risks that come with it. But I shouldn’t have to accept that being ambushed or executed in cold blood is just part of the job.

Congress has the power to make a difference. It’s time to stand with law enforcement, to back the men and women who keep our communities safe, and to send a clear message: If you target police officers, you will face federal justice.

I implore Congress to pass the Protect and Serve Act before another officer’s name is added to the memorial wall.

Andrew LaFramboise is an active Police Officer, and serves as the District Director of the Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police in Broward, Hendry and Collier Counties. He is also the President of the Hollywood Fraternal Order of Police. 

The post Protect Those Who Protect Us: Congress Must Pass the Protect and Serve Act appeared first on The Floridian.

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced the charging and extradition of terrorist Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as “Jafar,” for helping orchestrate the Abbey Gate terror attacks which killed 13 US military service members. 

The August 26, 2021 attacks occurred during President Joe Biden’s Afghanistan withdrawal debacle. 

As US servicemembers attempted to coordinate the evacuation of thousands of Afghani civilians, ISIS-K terrorist Abdul Rahman al-Logari detonated a body-worn suicide bomb, killing 13 U.S. military service members and approximately 160 civilians.

Attorney General Pam Bondi commended the DOJ and President Donald Trump’s leadership for Sharifullah’s extradition. 

“This evil ISIS-K terrorist orchestrated the brutal murder of 13 heroic service members,” said Attorney General Bondi. “Under President Trump’s strong leadership on the world stage, this Department of Justice will ensure that terrorists like Mohammad Sharifullah have no safe haven, no second chances, and no worse enemy than the United States of America.”

According to the DOJ, Sharifullah confessed to helping plan and execute the attack while being interviewed by US intelligence officers.

Sharifullah was also complicit in other high-profile ISIS-K terror attacks leading to hundreds of deaths. 

In the 2016 attack on Canada’s Kabul embassy, Sharifullah allegedly conducted surveillance to prepare a suicide bomber and later transported the bomber to the attack area.

The ISIS-K terrorists responsible for the horrific March 2024 Moscow theatre attack were also reportedly instructed on how to use automatic machine guns by Sharifullah. 

Sharifullah faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

Sharifullah’s extradition follows Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s expanded efforts to investigate and review the US’ tumultuous Afghanistan withdrawal.

Secretary Hegseth’s review, which he claimed would bring “full accountability” is expected to lead to the firing of military leadership who contributed to the withdrawal’s planning.  

The post Suspected Terrorist Who Killed 13 US Troops Extradited to US appeared first on The Floridian.

Representative Sheila Cherfilus McCormick (D-FL) has introduced bipartisan legislation extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian nationals in the United States.

In mid-February, the Trump Administration announced that TPS status for 500,000 Haitians in the United States would be revoked on August 3rd, which Rep. Cherfilus McCormick spoke against.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a statement justifying the decision: "Biden and Mayorkas attempted to tie the hands of the Trump administration by extending Haiti's Protected Status by 18 months—far longer than justified or necessary. We are returning integrity to the TPS system, which has been abused and exploited by illegal aliens for decades. President Trump and Secretary Noem are returning TPS to its original status: temporary."

In a counterstatement, Rep. Cherfilus McCormick emphasized the potential economic impact of abruptly removing half a million people from the country: "The abrupt removal of nearly half a million workers will have an immense and irreparable impact on businesses across the country and our economy at large."

As a result, the Florida Congresswoman and Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY) and Laura Gillen (D-NY) have issued a bipartisan bill extending TPS for another 18 months starting August 3rd, 2025.

"The elimination of TPS for eligible Haitians will have a detrimental ripple effect on our economy, unleashing turmoil and creating pain throughout our country. Alongside my colleagues, I'm leading this bipartisan push to designate TPS for Haitians because it will provide necessary relief for those fleeing chaos and protect South Florida's workforce," said Cherfilus McCormick in her press release.

Similarly, Rep. Lawler stated, "Many Haitians have sought refuge in my district as the security environment in Haiti has spiraled out of control. Given the ongoing violence and instability in Haiti, extending TPS is both a necessity and a humanitarian imperative. I'm proud to work with Congresswoman Gillen to ensure the U.S. upholds its commitment to the Haitian people during this crisis."

Finally, Rep. Gillen added, "The Administration's unfounded decision to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians will have a devastating impact on Long Island. Our neighbors, who have been thoroughly vetted and contribute to our economy and our community, now face being sent back to certain, life-threatening danger. I thank my House colleagues for their bipartisan support on this crucial priority."

The post Cherfilus McCormick Introduces Bipartisan Bill Extending TPS for Haitians appeared first on The Floridian.

Lay off my Coke! In the latest polling from Public Opinion Strategies, a majority of Americans, including Trump voters, support the usage of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly referred to as food stamps) for soft drinks, including those sweetened with sugar. Changing this policy has been a focal point not just for Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., but also for another Trump appointee, Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Granted, Secretary Rubio doesn't appear to be super focused on the issue as of now in his role in the State Department, it is one of RFK Jr.'s priorities. In September, RFK Jr wrote this in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal.

"Stop allowing beneficiaries of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to use their food stamps to buy soda or processed foods. Nine percent of all SNAP funding goes to sweetened drinks, according to 2011 data," Kennedy wrote. "It's nonsensical for U.S. taxpayers to spend tens of billions of dollars subsidizing junk that harms the health of low-income Americans."

Moreover, in May of 2023, while he was still a senator, Rubio introduced a bill, the Healthy SNAP Act, to eliminate junk food from food stamps and “make diet quality a primary objective of the SNAP program,” as 20% of the program’s purchases are junk food and unhealthy beverages, according to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Not only did Rubio believe that cutting sweets from food stamps would be more conscious of taxpayers in the short term, but it would also “in the long run, reduce medical expenses.”

However, despite a majority of Americans voting for President Donald Trump, it appears the citizens of the United States do not want "Big Brother" deciding how to spend their tax dollars.

An argument can be made for the idea that the taxpayers are funding unhealthy habits and stress on the healthcare system, as RFK Jr. and Rubio have pointed out.

But, not a single majority of any demographic from the polling suggests that Americans have a problem with their tax dollars going toward the less fortunate to buy sweets. The overall polling showed nearly 2 to 1 support for this notion.

At the same time, the United States is a representative republic, and the American people voted to put RFK Jr and Rubio in charge. If every issue was left up to the American people, then it would not, in fact, be a republic, but a pure democracy. However, if RFK Jr. wants to win on this issue in the court of public opinion, then polling suggests that the HHS will have some work to do in the communication sphere.

It doesn't appear that this issue will be set in stone any time soon.

The post Poll: Majority of Americans Disagree with RFK Jr., Rubio Over Using Food Stamps to Buy Soft Drinks appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried criticized U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds on Tuesday after he formally announced his Florida governor run.

“Byron Donalds is a dangerous political opportunist who should be nowhere near the governor’s mansion,” Fried said in a statement. “One of the least popular people in Tallahassee politics, Byron is best known for skipping votes, defending insurrectionists, and promoting a revisionist version of Black history that defends Jim Crow. He has little political experience and no executive experience, and is completely unqualified to run the state of Florida."

Nikki Fried also blasted Rep. Donalds' potential predecessor, Gov. Ron DeSantis, just yesterday. I guess you can say she's not pulling any punches.

Donalds, a Republican, announced his run on Fox News' Hannity last night. The 46-year-old is a three-term Congressman representing Florida's 19th District and a strong ally of President Donald Trump.

Days ago, President Donald Trump endorsed Donalds for governor. The power play also might have undercut Ron DeSantis' plans to attain Trump's endorsement for his wife Casey DeSantis, who has been mentioned as a governor candidate.

Ron DeSantis didn't exactly embrace the idea of Donalds for governor.

As for now, Donalds appears to be the clear favorite for the governor's mansion based on Trump's coveted endorsement. Trump crushed Vice President Kamala Harris in Florida by 13 points last November and has a permanent base in Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach.

Trump also pushed out DeSantis in the presidential primary before he made it to the state. DeSantis dropped out of the race before the New Hampshire primary in late January and endorsed Trump.

Other potential Republican candidates for governor include Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and former Rep. Matt Gaetz. Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo is rumored as a likely contender on the Democratic side.

But the betting favorite for now looks to be Donalds. Just don't expect Nikki Fried to put any money on it.

“Byron is only interested in power, and he won’t fix our property insurance crisis or bring down the cost of living for Floridians. He only has a shot at the nomination because Trump endorsed him, and Trump is only endorsing him because he wants a puppet in the governor’s mansion — pissing off Ron DeSantis is an added bonus," Fried added.

The primaries will take place in August 2026.

The post Fried Blasts Byron Donalds After Florida Governor Announcement appeared first on The Floridian.

Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) have reintroduced a bill to curb the sale of fentanyl online. The legislation is known as the Stopping Online Confusion for Investigative Agencies and Law-enforcement by Maintaining Evidence Determined Interparty Arrangements (SOCIAL MEDIA) Act.

The SOCIAL MEDIA Act aims to promote collaboration and improve comprehensive strategies between law enforcement agencies and social media companies to grant the platforms the best chances to stem the sale of fentanyl online.

According to the previous versions of the bill, the SOCIAL MEDIA Act would allow for better law enforcement coordination in criminal cases with social media platforms by requiring 24/7 staffed-in-the-U.S.A. call centers for fielding information requests with clear guidelines for agencies to best expedite the process.

Sen. Scott declared that Congress must rise to the occasion and attempt to stop the "heartbreaking epidemic" that is the fentanyl crisis.

“As parents and grandparents, we do everything in our power to keep our kids safe, from the dangers in the world, including deadly drugs like fentanyl," said Sen. Scott. "The fentanyl crisis is a heartbreaking epidemic that’s killing more than 70,000 Americans every year – and while President Trump works hard to stop the flow of these drugs into our nation, Congress must take action on our end to address this crisis on every level."

Scott continued, sharing that social media has been a major player in the flow of illicit drugs like fentanyl and the time to do something about it is now.

"I’ve talked to so many parents and law enforcement officers about how these drugs are now making their way to our communities and in our kids’ hands through social media apps, with dealers specifically targeting kids, causing deadly overdoses and getting away with it," said Scott. "Enough is enough. Our bipartisan bill, the SOCIAL MEDIA Act will give law enforcement additional tools to combat deadly fentanyl sales online, hold drug dealers accountable and fight this epidemic to save lives.”

Moreover, Sen. Shaheen added, “The substance use crisis continues to wreak havoc in communities across New Hampshire – and tragically, we’ve seen how social media apps make it easier for young people to get their hands on deadly drugs like fentanyl. Our bipartisan SOCIAL MEDIA Act would crack down on the illicit drug sales happening on social media by strengthening coordination between law enforcement and social media companies to prevent future overdoses.”

The SOCIAL MEDIA Act has been read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

The post Scott Reintroduces Bill to Fight Online Fentanyl Sales appeared first on The Floridian.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) recently praised U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi for her work just weeks since taking the oath of office as the head of the Department of Justice under President Donald Trump (R).

As a United States Senator, Ted Cruz mentioned that he had interviewed Bondi since becoming Attorney General and asked whether she accomplished her plan in the first two weeks upon entering the position.

Cruz's Statement on Bondi

.@AGPamBondi has an enormous task in front of her.

She is working around the clock to restore law and order and keep our country safe. pic.twitter.com/8yLAyMYOPF

— Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) February 23, 2025

"So, we interviewed her, and I asked her, 'Alright, first fifteen days, what has been accomplished, what needs to be done?,'" said Sen. Cruz.

Cruz continued, sharing that AG Bondi has taken the appropriate steps to American's safety and a commitment to law and order.

"And I'll tell you, she is very focused on number one, keeping us safe, putting murderers and rapists and child molesters and gang members and terrorists; putting them in jail, securing the border, going after the cartels, going after the people who are threatening our safety, and she is also laser-focused on ending the politicization and weaponization of the Department of Justice and the FBI. Both of those are desperately, desperately needed," said Cruz of Bondi.

AG Bondi offered a plethora of newsworthy moments during her confirmation hearings in the Senate. You can find key moments below:

Bondi's Attorney General Confirmation Hearing

During her confirmation hearing on Jan. 16, Bondi was asked about the 2020 election, the potential pardoning of January 6th protestors, and whether she would be more loyal to the Constitution or President Donald Trump (R).

During the hearing, multiple Democrats reiterated the question of whether President-elect Trump lost the 2020 election. Bondi repeatedly answered by saying that President Joe Biden (D) is currently the Commander-in-Chief, he was "duly sworn in" and that there was a "peaceful transfer of power" in the Oval Office.

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) followed up with Bondi by asking if she had "any doubts" that Biden had the majority of electoral votes to win in 2020.

She answered by saying that she accepted President Biden as the Commander-in-Chief but witnessed a lot of irregularities during her time on the ground in Pennsylvania during the 2020 election.

Additionally, Durbin asked if Bondi is prepared to pardon those who've been prosecuted for "violent assaults on police officers" during the events of January 6th, 2021.

Her response:

"Senator, if confirmed as Attorney General of the United States, the pardons, of course, fall under the President. But if asked to look at those cases, I will look at each case and advise on a case-by-case basis, just as I did my entire career as a prosecutor."

President Trump granted clemency to nearly 1,600 Jan. 6 protestors on his first day in office.

Furthermore, Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) asked Bondi if she would follow an order from President Trump even if it was deemed "unethical or illegal," and questioned her motives when giving responses in order to be confirmed by the committee.

Bondi responded:

"Senator, first, I need to clarify something that you said, that I have to sit up here and say these things. No, I don't. I sit up here and speak the truth. I'm not going to sit up here and say anything that I need to say to get confirmed by this body, I don't have to say anything. I will answer the questions to the best of my ability, and honestly."

The post Cruz Praises Attorney General Pam Bondi for Performance so far appeared first on The Floridian.

Cory Mills and Alleged Victim Categorically Deny Any Physical Assault Took Place

Florida Rep. Cory Mills has categorically denied he did anything wrong after Washington Metropolitan Police officers responded to his residence this past week, where they were asked to resolve...READ MORE

Sen. Ashley Moody: "Working hard to deliver for @realDonaldTrump as he works tirelessly to deliver on his promise to MAKE THIS COUNTRY SAFE AGAIN! I will continue to fight for drastic cuts in spending as we get our financial house in order."

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna: "Attorney General @AGPamBondi has confirmed the Epstein Files, JFK Files, and MLK Files are on her desk for review. This is the level of transparency and accountability the American people voted for, and we are working overtime to deliver that to them."

Rep. Lois Frankel: "The President’s Homeland Security Secretary just rescinded the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) extension for Haiti, putting 500,000 Haitians in the U.S. at risk of being sent back to conflict and crisis. It’s cruel, destabilizing, and dangerous. And no—it doesn’t lower costs for the American people."

FL Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith: "900 Central Floridians will lose their jobs so that El*on can benefit and enrich himself. That’s what’s happening."

Descovich: Senate Will 'Have a Hard Time' Rejecting Her After DeSantis Reappointment—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday reappointed Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich to the state ethics commission months after Republican...

Trump Endorses Byron Donalds For Florida Governor—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—President Donald Trump has endorsed Representative Byron Donalds for Florida Governor. Through a post on Truth Social, President Trump lauded Representative...

DeSantis Closes Out Legislative Battle, Vetoes Controversial TRUMP Act—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Thursday vetoed the TRUMP Act, a divisive illegal immigration bill, officially slamming the door on the month-long tumult within the...

Reps. Berny Jacques, Chase Tramont Look to Safeguard State Election System—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Florida Reps. Berny Jacques and Chase Tramont filed a bill Thursday that would safeguard the integrity of the state's electoral system while...

Cory Mills and Alleged Victim Categorically Deny Any Physical Assault Took Place—By The Floridian's Javier Manjarres—Florida Rep. Cory Mills has categorically denied he did anything wrong after Washington Metropolitan Police officers responded to his residence...

The Last Squeeze is published by  by Javier Manjarres, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Last Squeeze🍊—2.21.2025—Mills, Alleged Victim Deny Physical Assault—Descovich Confident She'll Score Senate Confirmation After Reappointment—Much More... appeared first on The Floridian.

The Trump Administration’s decision to revoke Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 500,000 Venezuelans has sparked outrage among South Florida lawmakers and activists who argue that sending exiles back to Nicolás Maduro’s regime will only worsen the ongoing humanitarian crisis, while experts argue this would increase migration.

Repatriation flights to Venezuela resumed on February 10th, raising concerns about broader U.S. policy towards Venezuela.

Many Republicans are calling for a return to the "maximum pressure" strategy that President Donald Trump (R) promoted during his first term. Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R) and Special Envoy for Latin America Mauricio Clever-Carone have voiced a similar hardline approach, but critics argue that returning to the “maximum pressure” approach would only cripple the Venezuelan economy without achieving regime change.

Doral Vice Mayor Maureen Porras, who's expressed disagreement with ending TPS, believes that the U.S. should continue to "apply pressure" while noting the complexity of the situation.

"The most recent pressure campaign was not effective in getting political change in Venezuela, but neither was the easing of sanctions," Vice Mayor Porras told The Floridian in an exclusive interview. "Regardless, we should continue to apply the pressure on Venezuela."

University of Colorado economist Francisco Rodriguez found that reinstating maximum pressure sanctions could drive 1 million more Venezuelans to flee over the next five years. His study further suggests that 4 million Venezuelans would have remained in their country had U.S. sanctions not been imposed.

Rodriguez, in a recent op-ed for The Hill, argued that returning to the strategy “would do nothing more than punish millions of Venezuelans who should not bear the burden for Maduro’s atrocities.”

“Rather than weaken Maduro,” Rodriguez wrote in the op-ed, “sanctions have strengthened his position, enabling his concentration of power and consolidation of ties with America’s adversaries. As U.S. companies have exited Venezuela, they have been replaced by actors from China, Russia and Iran, further entrenching Maduro’s regime and reducing U.S. influence in the region.”

Similarly, Venezuelan professor Luis Pedro España warns that resuming oil-related sanctions could dramatically increase poverty, echoing the conditions from 2017 to 2020, when 94% of Venezuelans lived in poverty and 2.5 million households fell into economic despair.

Florida Reps. Carlos Gimenez (R), Mario Diaz-Balart (R), Maria Elvira Salazar (R), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D), and Weston Commissioner Fabio Andrade are among the locals who also disagree with ending TPS.

Rep. Gimenez has urged Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to ensure Venezuelans fleeing communism receive protection, emphasizing that not all Venezuelans should be stigmatized due to criminal elements like the Tren de Aragua gang. Rep. Diaz-Balart has similarly pressed Secretary Noem to prevent the forced return of Venezuelans without criminal records to a "repressive dictatorship."

"The majority of Americans agree on the need to secure our borders and to remove immigrants that are breaking the law and are burdening our systems," Vice Mayor Porras told The Floridian. "Passing the Venezuelan Adjustment Act would help fix temporary solutions like TPS by providing law abiding Venezuelans already in the U.S. a path to permanent residency," she added.

The post Trump Administration Revoking TPS for Venezuelans Sparks Outrage Among Lawmakers appeared first on The Floridian.

With a Republican supermajority in the state legislature, Senate Democratic Leader Jason Pizzo (D-Sunny Isles) has filed a legislative measure that would require companies to use E-Verify, regardless of their size, to confirm potential hires are eligible to be legally employed.

"Florida Republicans have insisted that we are in an immigration crisis. We are. However, declaring a state of emergency, passing a few messaging bills, creating transport programs, and blowing millions of taxpayer dollars do not make us the 'toughest in the nation' on illegal immigration," Senate Democratic Leader Jason Pizzo said in a release. "Alas, we find ourselves at the end of the third special session because we just can't seem to get it right."

E-Verify is an Internet-based system that confirms the eligibility of a potential employee of a company to work in the United States. The system checks a person's Form I-9 and Employment Eligibility Verification to records with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration.

Notably, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed SB 1718 into law in 2023 which requires private employers to use E-Verify for new hires, albeit with 25 or more employees.

Under SB 782, any employer, including private entities, public agencies, and public agency contractors and subcontractors would be required to use E-Verify or face punishment.

Among them, the state would revoke or suspend an employer's license for one year and knock the company up to $10,000.

The bill also adds punishment for repeat offenders, including a second offense of up to $50,000 and a license suspension/revokement. A third strike would result in a fine of up to $100,000 and permanent revokement.

Furthermore, an employer would be docked up to $500,000 if an incident happened where someone died as a result of an illegal immigrant's actions.

Pizzo has been an outspoken critic of Florida Republicans on Illegal immigration, including on E-Verify. The 48-year-old is considered a moderate in the Democratic party and a potential Gubernatorial candidate in 2026.

Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed a package of anti-illegal immigration measures into law, culminating the end of a third special session filled with plenty of infighting and drama.

"If we want to be serious about serious issues then we must acknowledge the root causes of illegal immigration. The lead incentive driving illegal immigration is the opportunity of employment, and the unscrupulous business that enable it to continue," Pizzo added.

If passed, SB 782 would take effect on July 1.

The post Pizzo Files Bill Requiring Companies Use E-Verify to Confirm Employee Eligibility appeared first on The Floridian.

Byron Donalds for Governor?

President Donald Trump posted an image on Truth Social showing Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) leading a poll for the 2026 Florida Republican gubernatorial primary in 2026. Donalds for Governor? .. READ MORE

Sen. Jason Pizzo-My bill requiring all Florida employers use E-Verify is up - encourage your State Senator to join as a co-sponsor.

Senator Randy Fine-Happy President’s Day to the man Making America Great Again, @realDonaldTrump!

Debbie Wasserman Schultz-As we honor past leaders who confronted adversity with honesty & courage, the current president disdains truth & couldn’t care less how you make ends meet. So this Presidents Day, I’ll fight to help you and curb Trump’s worst impulses.

Blaise Ingoglia-"They're developing AI to one day detect cancer cells in human beings," said Ingoglia. "You're going to tell me it wouldn't be able to detect a firearm that's being carried by a law-abiding citizen?

Florida Bill Would Ensure Transparency by Foreign Actors who Engage in State Election Process—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—A Florida bill would ensure transparency by requiring lobbyists to disclose their funding sources by foreign actors of foreign principals who engage in the state's election process.

Trump Shares Poll Showing Donalds as Leading Gubernatorial Candidate in 2026—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—President Donald Trump posted an image on Truth Social showing Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) leading a poll for the 2026 Florida Republican gubernatorial primary in 2026.

Haridopolos Torches 'Nonsensical' Democrats Opposing DOGE—By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich—Representative Mike Haridopolos (R-FL) dismissed the "nonsensical" arguments Democrats made against the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in a recent appearance on Fox and Friends First, adding, "They are just upset that they lost the majority."

Burmese Python 'Hot Spot' Detected in Palm Beach County—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—The Burmese python is one of the more high-profile invasive species in Florida and it appears to be getting more comfortable in other parts of the state.

Dìaz-Balart, Moskowitz Introduce School Safety Act—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers composed of Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales (R) and Florida Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D)...

Transgender Individuals Banned From Joining Army—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—The US Army has banned transgender individuals from joining in accordance with President Donald Trump’s recent executive order mandating the same.

Rubio's Visit To Israel Signals Radical Shift in US Middle East Policy—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines

Former DeSantis Chief of Staff, James Uthmeier, Sworn in as FL Attorney General—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Governor Ron DeSantis' (R-FL) Chief of Staff, James Uthmeier, has officially been sworn in as Florida's newest Attorney General. The Florida governor shared that Uthmeier was "a bulldog" within his administration.

Florida Bills Would Seek Death Penalty for Crimes Committed at President of the United States—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—Two Florida lawmakers filed bills that would seek the death penalty for crimes committed against the President of the United States and other heads of state.

Legal Reform Advocacy Group, PACT, Wants Georgia to Follow in Florida's Footsteps—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

Donalds Says Trump 'Picked the Right People' to Slash Government Spending, Fulfill Agenda —By The Floridian's Grayson Bakich

DeSantis Applauds Florida's Plummeting Abortion Rates Following Six-Week Ban—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday applauded the drastic decrease in the number of Florida abortions, prompted by the governor's efforts to enact...

You Betcha! Sarah Palin to Headline Miami GOP Women's Liberty Event—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—The Republican Party of Miami-Dade is hosting former Republican vice presidential candidate and former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin at its First Annual...

American and Allied Forces Continue Fighting ISIS Terrorists in Middle East—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—American military and allied forces continue battling ISIS terrorists in the Middle East. In early January, the US Central Command announced...

Wasserman Schultz & Moskowitz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Children Online—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representatives Jared Moskowitz and Debbie Wasserman Schultz have joined some of their colleagues in bicameral and bipartisan...

Scott Introduces Bill to Reduce Dependence on Chinese Batteries—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senators Rick Scott and Maggie Hassan have introduced the Decoupling from Foreign Adversarial Battery Dependence Act, bipartisan legislation that aims...

Moskowitz Calls for Bipartisan School Safety Reforms—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Rep. Jared Moskowitz is calling on Congress to act on school safety ahead of the seventh anniversary of the Parkland school shooting. In a message to supporters...

Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post JUICE🍊—2.18.2025—Trump Loves Byron Donalds for Governor— Foreign Actors and State Elections—Haridpolos, Snakes, Fl Lawmakers—Much More.. appeared first on The Floridian.

Representative Mike Haridopolos (R-FL) dismissed the "nonsensical" arguments Democrats made against the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in a recent appearance on Fox and Friends First, adding, "They are just upset that they lost the majority."

Host Carley Shimkus began by playing several clips of Democratic Congressmen during the Sunday news shows, including Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). Rep. Vindman, in particular, said DOGE was instituting a "reign of terror" across the federal government.

Rep. Haridopolos called the arguments put forth by the Democrats "nonsensical."

"People work very hard to pay their taxes every single day. They are hurting. They are paying 20-30% more for rent, gasoline, food, and they see wasteful government spending," Rep. Haridopolos continued, further suggesting, "We need to have the government in the sunshine. We need to have spending in the sunshine. People deserve to know where their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent."

Shimkus asked if the Democrats' crowing about a "constitutional crisis" was simply rhetoric and if they felt any different behind the scenes, to which the Florida Congressman replied, "They are just upset that they lost the majority."

"They ran the government for four years into the ground, and now the American public has to pay for their mistakes. America deserves to have a government that really looks out for them, takes care of the basics well, protects our country, and makes sure that every tax dollar is spent in a smart way. Transparency is the way to do that," Haridopolos continued.

As a result, Haridopolos said he applauds President Donald Trump "for creating DOGE and using a mastermind like Elon Musk, who understands computers and technology, to root out this corruption. When we right-size the government, everybody wins."

The Florida Congressman's remarks echo those of his colleague Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL), who recently said, "What Elon Musk is doing is what has needed to happen for decades: somebody from the outside walking directly into these agencies, ceasing operations, and doing a top-to-bottom evaluation. If you think that there is an easier way to cut Washington, DC spending, I am just here to tell you it is not the case."

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A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers composed of Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales (R) and Florida Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D), and Mario Díaz-Balart (R), has introduced the Single Application for School Safety Act (SASS) to improve access to federal school safety resources.

The bill promises to cut bureaucratic red tape by streamlining the application process for school safety grants. Instead of requiring multiple, complex applications, the bill mandates a single submission to the Department of Justice (DOJ), making it easier for schools and law enforcement agencies to secure funding for security enhancements.

These federal grants would provide critical funding for safety measures such as security cameras, door locks, intercom systems, and anonymous threat reporting platforms, ensuring that schools have the resources necessary to protect students and teachers.

In a statement, Rep. Díaz-Balart emphasized the importance of making school safety grants more accessible. "Ensuring school safety remains a top priority for our country. Applying for a school safety grant should not be difficult,” he said, adding that “to streamline the process and reduce bureaucratic delays, I, alongside my colleague Rep. Moskowitz, introduced the SASS Act."

The bill has drawn bipartisan support as lawmakers across party lines acknowledge the need to prioritize school security while ensuring federal resources are efficiently distributed.

Rep. Moskowitz, a strong advocate for school safety reforms, has pushed for measures to enhance security and emergency response protocols in schools nationwide. The SASS Act aligns with his other legislative efforts, such as the EAGLES Act and the Measures for Safer School Districts Act, which focus on improving school safety infrastructure and crisis intervention training.

With increasing concerns over school violence, lawmakers are hopeful that this bipartisan initiative will receive swift approval in the House, eventually making its wat to President Donald Trump’s (R) desk.

The post Dìaz-Balart, Moskowitz Introduce School Safety Act appeared first on The Floridian.

Two Florida lawmakers filed bills that would seek the death penalty for crimes committed against the President of the United States and other heads of state.

The proposals were filed by Sen. Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill) and Rep. Jeff Holcomb (R-Spring Hill) on Monday. Blaise Ingolia referred to the attempted assignation attempt on then-former President Donald Trump last July for his filing in a press release.

“The events that occurred at Butler, PA opened up a lot of eyes to the potential horrors of political discourse.  Any attempts on the lives of heads of state or innocent bystanders, on Florida soil, should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, including the death penalty," Ingoglia said.

President Trump, then the Republican nominee, was shot in the upper right ear by an individual carrying an AR-15-style rifle on the roof of a nearby building last July. After being rushed by Secret Service Agents, Trump rose from the ground with blood on his face and ear and told the crowd to "Fight" with his fist in the air.

The 20-year-old shooter was killed by the Secret Service in the assignation attempt.

“The events that occurred at Butler, PA opened up a lot of eyes to the potential horrors of political discourse.  Any attempts on the lives of heads of state or innocent bystanders, on Florida soil, should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, including the death penalty," Ingoglia said.

Under SB 776/HB 653, an individual would be sentenced to death or life imprisonment for a capital felony against the head state, which includes the President of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, or the governor of a state.

The bill also mentioned any attempt on a head of state would be subject to the death penalty.

"As one of the strongest law and order states in the union, Florida is going to lead on this issue because the most serious and heinous crimes should be punishable with the ultimate penalty,” Ingoglia added

Jeff Holcomb also mentioned the crisis at the border, particularly under former President Joe Biden, for its filing. According to a report from the House Judiciary Committee, the Biden administration released nearly 100 illegal aliens on the terror watch list as of August 2024.

“Due to the increased threats in our country, it is clear that Florida has to be a leader with enhanced penalties for criminals who try to assassinate our key elected officials," Holcomb said in the release. "For four years, our borders were opened by the most corrupt president in American history who allowed rapists, murderers and terrorists to freely enter our country, not to mention the many known foreign threats."

If passed, the legislation would take effect on July 1.

The post Florida Bills Would Seek Death Penalty for Crimes Committed at President of the United States appeared first on The Floridian.

Legal Reform Advocacy Group,Wants Georgia to Follow in Florida's Footsteps

Blaise Ingoglia-The idea that the amount of property taxes one pays is directly connected to the price someone would pay for the home (value) is pretty ridiculous.

Two people living in a $200K home, on average, use about the same amount of government services if they lived in a $1M home.

Jay Collins-Collectively, @Collinslayla and I share over 40 years of military service.

We enlisted in the Army to protect the ideas, ideals, and principles that make America great.

Now, we’re in the fight to make sure we leave a better life for our boys and their generation than the one that was left for us.

Sen. Jason Pizzo-Maybe we should just require e-verify for the companies hiring unauthorized aliens, and we won’t have to wait for traffic stops. Those t-shirts might offer a clue.

Legal Reform Advocacy Group, PACT, Wants Georgia to Follow in Florida's Footsteps—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich

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Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post JUICE🍊—2.17.2025—Georgia Advocacy Group Following DeSantis', Florida's Lead— Florida's Abortion Rate Falls—Much More.. appeared first on The Floridian.

Moskowitz Calls for Bipartisan School Safety Reforms

Florida Rep. Jared Moskowitz is calling on Congress to act on school safety ahead of the seventh anniversary of the Parkland school shooting. In a message to supporters, he emphasized the need for...READ MORE

Rep. Jared Moskowitz: "It’s been 7 years since the shooting at my alma mater, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Time hasn’t lessened the pain of that horrific day."

Gov. Ron DeSantis: "Florida is a safe place to live, work, and raise a family thanks to our law enforcement officers and first responders. As governor, I’ve signed landmark pay increases and bonuses for first responders in recognition of their service to our communities."

FL Sen. Jason Pizzo: "Senator Geraldine Thompson has passed. An extraordinary woman, dedicated public servant, doting matriarch, and our dear friend. The @FLSenate shall strive to honor the passion in her public service, her love for her family, and her truly remarkable legacy."

FL First Lady Casey DeSantis: "Happy Valentine’s Day to the GOAT."

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You Betcha! Sarah Palin to Headline Miami GOP Women's Liberty Event—By The Floridian's Michael Costeines—The Republican Party of Miami-Dade is hosting former Republican vice presidential candidate and former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin at its First Annual...

American and Allied Forces Continue Fighting ISIS Terrorists in Middle East—By The Floridian's Mateo Guillamont—American military and allied forces continue battling ISIS terrorists in the Middle East. In early January, the US Central Command announced...

Wasserman Schultz & Moskowitz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Children Online—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Representatives Jared Moskowitz and Debbie Wasserman Schultz have joined some of their colleagues in bicameral and bipartisan...

Scott Introduces Bill to Reduce Dependence on Chinese Batteries—By The Floridian's Jackson Bakich—Senators Rick Scott and Maggie Hassan have introduced the Decoupling from Foreign Adversarial Battery Dependence Act, bipartisan legislation that aims...

Moskowitz Calls for Bipartisan School Safety Reforms—By The Floridian's Daniel Molina—Florida Rep. Jared Moskowitz is calling on Congress to act on school safety ahead of the seventh anniversary of the Parkland school shooting. In a message to supporters...

Striking In-State Tuition for Undocumented Kids Advances to Floor—By The Floridian's Liv Caputo—A sweeping anti-illegal immigration bill barring undocumented students from receiving discounted tuition rates passed its first—and...

Juice is squeezed by Javier Manjarres, Liv Caputo,  and Daniel Molina

The post Last Squeeze🍊—2.14.2025—Moskowitz Demands School Safety Reforms on Parkland Anniversary—DeSantis Lauds Declining Florida Abortions—Much More... appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D) is calling on Congress to act on school safety ahead of the seventh anniversary of the Parkland school shooting. In a message to supporters, he emphasized the need for commonsense bipartisan reforms to protect students and educators from school violence.

In his message, Rep. Moskowitz stressed that the federal government has failed to take adequate action to prevent similar tragedies.

"There’s not a day that goes by that we don’t remember the fourteen students and three staff we lost at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School—students and staff whose lives never should have been at risk just for walking into their school on Valentine’s Day," he shared in his message.

The Florida Democrat criticized the House for its lack of urgency on school safety and reaffirmed his commitment to breaking the cycle of inaction. As a response to the pressing issue, Rep. Moskowitz introduced a package of bipartisan measures aimed at strengthening school security, emergency response systems, and student safety resources.

Rep. Moskowitz's legislative package includes the following bills:

The Measures for Safer School Districts Act requires schools to develop emergency response and parental notification procedures and mandates door reinforcement improvements.

The Single Application for School Safety Act simplifies the federal grant application process for schools seeking funding for security cameras, intercoms, door-locking mechanisms, anonymous threat reporting systems, and crisis intervention training programs.

The EAGLES Act establishes a national program on targeted school violence prevention, expanding research, training, and information-sharing to prevent attacks before they happen.

Rep. Moskowitz highlighted that school violence has impacted communities nationwide, regardless of political affiliation, and called on Congress to act swiftly. "No student should be scared to go to class in the morning, and no family should worry about whether their kid will come home in the afternoon," he affirmed.

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