Florida State Senator Victor M. Torres, Jr.
Last May, (https://laprensafl.com/robert-bob-cortes-los-puertorriquenos-necesitamos-que-rick-scott-siga-siendo-nuestra-voz-en-el-senado/camino-a-las-elecciones-2024/la-prensa-orlando/) former State Representative Bob Cortes published an op-ed stating that Puerto Ricans need Rick Scott to remain their voice in the Senate. It is time to set the record straight. While Cortes may suggest that Scott is a dedicated advocate, the facts reveal a different story.
In 2019, when Democrats in the U.S. Senate pushed for a comprehensive aid package for Puerto Rico, Rick Scott and his Republican colleagues pushed for a significantly smaller, inadequate package. This failure to provide adequate support has had lasting consequences for Puerto Rico’s disaster response and infrastructure resilience as a result, the island continues to face the repercussions of this insufficient aid, affecting its ability to recover fully from natural disasters. He also opposed federal funding requests for redevelopment and environmental cleanup efforts for Vieques.
As Governor, Rick Scott’s policies included shortening early voting periods, complicating the work of voter registration groups, and increasing the barriers for provisional ballots. These measures were part of a broader trend of undermining access to voting and eroding democratic participation.
Looking at Rick Scott’s entire record, it is clear he has made drastic cuts to public school funding, reduced support for the disabled and unemployed, and handed Medicaid over to corporate interests. His privatization of prisons and restrictive election laws only further highlight his approach to governance, one that prioritizes corporate profits and political gain over the needs of the people. As Rick Scott now runs for reelection to the US Senate and wants our votes, has television ads touting his support for IVF (In vitro fertilization) to allow young families like his own daughter access to healthcare services to become pregnant. Yet just a few weeks ago, Rick Scott along with 43 other Republicans Senators voted against a bill that would guarantee all women that right he says he proudly supports.
Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, in contrast, offers a record of genuine commitment to Puerto Rico and Latino communities. Her journey from Ecuador to the U.S. reflects a personal understanding of the pursuit of freedom and democracy. As the first South American immigrant and Ecuadorian American elected to Congress, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell has been a strong advocate for both. She co-sponsored a bipartisan resolution recognizing Puerto Rico’s 2020 ballot referendum results and actively worked on recovery efforts by supporting significant aid packages for disaster relief and infrastructure repair.
Rick Scott’s voting record shows a lack of support for FEMA funding and infrastructure investments, further questioning his dedication to Puerto Rico’s recovery. He tells the voters one thing and then votes the opposite way which means you can never trust what he says or more importantly you can never trust what he will do. For Puerto Ricans and Latino communities, the choice is clear. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell has demonstrated a consistent commitment to addressing their needs and advocating for their interests. In contrast, Rick Scott’s record reflects a pattern of neglect and self-serving politics.
It is time to elect leaders who will truly champion the values and issues that matter most to our communities which is why I urge you to vote for Debbie Mucarsel-Powell for US Senate.
A Spanish version can be found here:Rick Scott no merece el apoyo de la Comunidad Hispana