Last week started out as a normal D.C. vote week until Wednesday morning when Republicans were fired upon while practicing for the Congressional Baseball Game. The game is held annually to raise money for local charities in D.C. My colleague Rep. Steve Scalise, two congressional aides and two capitol police officers were among those injured during the shooting. Thanks to the heroism of two Capitol Police officers, the shooter was stopped before causing further harm to the baseball players and nearby civilians. My thoughts and prayers are with those affected for their immediate and full recovery. I am grateful for the first responders, especially the two Capitol Police who ended this senseless shooting and saved numerous lives that day. We cannot thank you enough for your heroic action to protect the lives of our colleagues and citizens. God bless you all.
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On Tuesday, I met with American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life recipient Graham Losse from Nature Coast EMS. Graham has continually gone above and beyond in the service and care of his patients. AAA honors the Stars of Life award to its medical professionals who exemplify dedication, service and heroism. Thank you Graham for your unwavering care and commitment to the Citrus County community.
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I also attended the American Israel Public Affairs Committee meeting that expressed concern for the security of Israel. Providing security assistance to Israel is crucial because it is the only functioning democracy in the Middle East. In addition to security assistance, we discussed the attempted de-legitimization of Israel by various international organizations. I will never waver in standing with our ally Israel.
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Last week, President Trump announced a revamped foreign policy towards Cuba that emphasizes the protection of human rights and seeks to weaken the stronghold of the Castro regime. According to the White House, the policy reaffirms the United States’ commitment to hold the Castro regime accountable and ensure that taxpayer money is protected from funding the communist regimes. Under Trump’s policy proposal, American companies to continue their foreign direct investments in the few small, private firms within the Cuban economy. The long-term goal of the Cuba policy is to unshackle and empower the Cuban people while also moving the relationship between the United States and Cuba to one of mutual benefit and shared ambitions.
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Summertime in the Gulf means it’s Red Snapper season. With the fishing season having opened this weekend, Florida joined the other four Gulf States in a compromise with the federal government that aligns both federal and state private Red Snapper fishing seasons during the summer. The expansion to 39 weekend days and holidays is a step forward in balancing both the need to conserve while also allowing locals and tourists to enjoy fishing this prized staple in our Gulf.
Congressman Daniel Webster represents The Villages in the U.S. House of Representatives.
