Florida has immense natural beauty, but Republican control of the state is destroying its environment – and by extension, millions of jobs. The disastrous environmental policies of Gov. Rick Scott (R) caused severe backlash, culminating in years of devastating algae blooms that killed countless fish, dolphins, and manatees and caused widespread health damage to residents. Beyond the clear health consequences, algal blooms and worsened red tide also devastated Florida’s economy. Southwest Florida was one of the hardest-hit regions in the state – its local businesses saw their steepest drop in business since September 11, 2001.
Current Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis has done nowhere close to enough to protect Florida’s natural beauty and resources – he received a “D” grade from The Sierra Club for his weak environmental record, and businesses have continued to suffer. But many Florida Democrats are stepping up. In Southwest Florida, Drake Buckman is running on a strong environmental platform – his red tide page begins, “My name is Drake Buckman and I hate Red Tide.” He emphasizes what Floridians know is true — “The stench of Red Tide represented a catastrophic failure of our legislature to protect our water supply.”
Buckman also recognizes what Democrats throughout Florida do – the preservation of natural resources is vital for the state’s economy. Republicans have pushed disastrous policies for short-term gain, but Buckman understands the long-term benefit of a strong environment. “Tens of millions of dollars were lost as tourists avoided our shores. This neglect must stop. I am committed to protecting our natural resources and the economy it supports,” he states. Florida needs all Democrats to step up like Drake Buckman and make clear to Floridians, regardless of party – the environment affects all of us and our livelihoods, and we need to act like it.
Donate here to help Drake Buckman protect Florida’s environment and keep its businesses strong.