Why America needs more of Florida’s policies, not less | Opinion

In her recent remarks at the Democratic National Convention, Broward U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz painted a dire picture of Florida under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ leadership.

She claimed that the policies implemented in Florida are a “cautionary tale” and warned that similar policies should not be adopted nationwide.

As a Floridian and a staunch supporter of conservative principles, I strongly disagree with her assessment. In fact, I believe that America would greatly benefit from adopting more of the policies that have made Florida a beacon of freedom, economic growth, and personal responsibility.

First and foremost, Rep. Wasserman Schultz’s portrayal of Florida as a state in decline is simply not accurate. Florida has experienced tremendous growth and prosperity under Gov. DeSantis’ leadership. The state has become a magnet for individuals and businesses fleeing high-tax, high-regulation states in search of economic freedom and a better quality of life.

Florida’s business-friendly environment, with low taxes and minimal regulations, has created jobs, spurred innovation, and boosted our state’s economy. If anything, these are the kinds of policies that should be emulated across the nation.

Rep. Wasserman Schultz’s critique of Florida’s educational policies also misses the mark. The “Parental Rights in Education” law is about empowering parents and ensuring that education remains focused on core academic subjects rather than social engineering. Parents have the right to know what their children are being taught and to have a say in their education.

This policy is not about discrimination; it is about transparency and parental involvement—values that should be championed, not condemned.

On the issue of abortion, Rep. Wasserman Schultz cited a tragic story to argue against Florida’s pro-life laws. While her empathy for the woman in this story is understandable, it is important to recognize that Florida’s laws reflect the deeply held beliefs of many Floridians who value the sanctity of life.

According to Florida law, after six weeks of pregnancy, abortions are generally not allowed unless certain conditions are met. These include situations where the mother’s life is in danger, there is a serious risk to her health, or if two doctors agree that the fetus has a fatal condition. These policies are not about cruelty; they are about upholding moral principles that many Americans share.

Moreover, Rep. Wasserman Schultz’s comments about climate change and environmental policies in Florida fail to acknowledge the significant efforts that have been made to protect our state’s unique ecosystems. Gov. DeSantis has invested heavily in Everglades restoration, water quality improvements, and other environmental initiatives. Florida’s approach to environmental stewardship is a model of how to balance economic growth with the need to preserve our natural resources.

What Rep. Wasserman Schultz fails to grasp is that the policies she decries as “dangerous” are actually working for Florida. Our state is thriving because we have embraced principles that prioritize individual liberty, economic freedom and the rule of law. These are the very principles that have made America the greatest nation on earth, and they are exactly what is needed to restore our country’s greatness on a national scale.

In conclusion, America needs more of Florida’s policies, not less. We should look to Florida as an example of what is possible when we prioritize freedom, responsibility and common sense.

If we do, I have no doubt that our nation will continue to thrive for generations to come.

Republican Florida State Rep. Tom Fabricio represents District 110

This story was originally published August 26, 2024 at 4:35 PM.