A recent wave of criticism against Florida has drawn a swift and tongue-in-cheek response from Republican Sen. Rick Scott. This comes on the heels of a travel advisory posted by the NAACP condemning Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida lawmakers, citing a purported attempt to ‘erase Black history’ and to limit diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida schools.
The NAACP advisory suggests, rather boldly, that ‘Florida is openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals,’ further stating that Florida marginalizes these communities.
In a cleverly crafted parody, Sen. Scott mirrors the language of the NAACP’s advisory in a Twitter statement of his own. He points towards what he perceives as an attempt by the Biden Administration to undermine the capitalist system that has brought prosperity to both Florida and the United States at large.
Scott’s mock advisory proclaims, ‘Florida is openly hostile toward Socialists, Communists, and those that enable them.’ It further warns potential visitors to the state that Florida does not value the contributions of Socialists, nor does it sympathize with the challenges faced by those operating within the Biden Administration.
Senator Scott doesn’t mince his words, stating quite clearly that any attempt to impose the societal burdens commonly associated with Socialism will be firmly rejected by the people of Florida. Visitors bearing Socialist intentions, particularly in North Florida, will likely find their efforts met with derision and scorn.
Scott then emphasizes the dangers awaiting Socialists in Central and South Florida. These regions, he notes, are populated by many individuals from Cuba, Venezuela, and other parts of Central and South America, who have firsthand experience with the destructive impacts of Socialist governance.
Scott’s statement has resonated with a considerable number of individuals. He goes on to criticize the NAACP advisory as ‘discriminatory,’ urging a focus on character, reputation, and work ethic, rather than promoting division. The Senator expresses disappointment in the NAACP, arguing that their statement serves more to promote discrimination than unity.
Governor DeSantis’ office has also responded to the NAACP’s advisory, dismissing it as a ‘stunt.’ As the waves of political rhetoric crash on the shores of the Sunshine State, Florida’s leaders stand firm, advocating for the values and systems they believe have made their state prosperous.
