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Dear Neighbor,
As we move through August, I want to take a moment to share some important updates on the work I’ve been doing both in Washington and here at home. From protecting consumers and national security to advocating for seniors and small businesses, my focus remains on delivering results that improve lives in our community. Thank you for staying engaged—your voice matters, and it guides my efforts every step of the way.
Protecting Consumers: I applaud the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for using its authority under the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act to crack down on bad actors exploiting consumers through deceptive and unfair ticketing practices. This enforcement action, announced last week, marks a significant step toward creating a more transparent and fair marketplace.
Safeguarding National Security: In addition, my colleagues and I are urging the Department of Commerce to investigate Spain’s deeply troubling decision to partner with Huawei—a company with close ties to the Chinese Communist Party—to store judicial wiretap data. This raises serious national security concerns that could affect not only Spain but also the United States and our allies. With the potential for American data to be indirectly compromised, immediate action is needed to protect our communications infrastructure and sensitive information.
Protecting Seniors: I’ve made it my mission to fight for seniors throughout our community. Most recently, I introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at empowering seniors to make more informed health care decisions. This initiative is part of a broader effort to simplify and improve Medicare so it’s more accessible and user-friendly for older Americans. I’m proud to work across the aisle to ensure our seniors receive the care and clarity they deserve. Click here to learn more about my legislation.
Strengthening Medicaid: This graphic highlights the latest analysis from the Congressional Budget Office on the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill's Medicaid provisions. The measure strengthens Medicaid to ensure it continues to serve America's most vulnerable citizens by ensuring that able bodied adults (between 18-64) living in states who have expanded access to Medicaid eligibility must comply with new requirements to work, go to school or volunteer at least 20 hours per week in order to continue participating in Medicaid. There are exemptions for the most vulnerable Americans, including seniors, children, the disabled, those with dependent children who are not school age, etc. And, Floridians are not subject to the bill’s new work requirements since Florida never expanded Medicaid eligibility to include able bodied adults. Additionally, nursing homes are exempt from any changes under the bill and hospital reimbursement rates are maintained at Florida's current level, so there will not be decreases to Florida hospital's rates.
Learning from You: I recently had the pleasure of speaking with senior advocates at this month’s Pasco Aging Network meeting. It was a valuable opportunity to share what I’m doing in Washington to support our seniors—from healthcare and prescription access to strengthening Social Security and enhancing local services.
I also had a great listening session with residents at The Canopy at Beacon Woods, where we discussed how the One Big Beautiful Bill will benefit seniors. Hearing directly from community members helps shape my work and ensures I’m addressing the real challenges people face every day.
I was honored to meet with Rotary club members across Hernando County to talk about the Big Beautiful Bill. Their feedback was thoughtful and highlighted local priorities that I’ll continue to champion in Congress.
A productive conversation with the Seven Springs Rotary also focused on the Big Beautiful Bill and its taxpayer benefits. Their engagement and insights are essential as I work to represent our community effectively in Washington.
In another meaningful dialogue, I met with local restaurant owners and Uber Eats drivers to discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill, including the new No Tax on Tips provision, will impact small businesses and gig workers. Their firsthand experiences will help guide future legislative efforts to support our workforce.
I also sat down with local manufacturers to explore how the Big Beautiful Bill can strengthen the U.S. manufacturing sector. Their input on tariffs, supply chains, and workforce development is critical as we work to grow American industry and bring jobs back home.
While visiting The Summit ALF in Citrus County, I had important conversations about healthcare and senior care provisions in the Big Beautiful Bill. Hearing directly from residents and staff helps ensure policy reflects their real-world needs and improves quality of life.
I had the chance to speak to the New Port Richey City Council about the federal funds I've secured to help build housing for low income seniors in Pasco County. I look forward to working with all of our stakeholders at the local and state level to bring this project to fruition as quickly as possible since the need is urgent.
Finally, I had the privilege of joining the Inverness Rotary for a thoughtful discussion about the One Big Beautiful Bill. Their input helps strengthen our legislative efforts and ensures we’re advancing solutions that truly benefit Florida families.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team had the honor of celebrating Gloria Widmer’s 100th birthday in Hernando County—an incredible achievement and a true testament to a life well lived. Happy Birthday, Gloria! May your century of wisdom, grace, and resilience continue to inspire all who know you. Here's to many more joyful moments ahead!
My team also had the pleasure of attending this month’s Community Service Council Luncheon, where they learned more about the incredible work being done by passionate volunteers across our area. It’s always inspiring to see the dedication and heart these individuals pour into serving others—quietly making a powerful difference in the lives of so many. Thank you to all who continue to give their time and talents to make our community a better place!
Additionally, my team proudly joined a Habitat for Humanity Build project to help prepare a new home for a hardworking, deserving family in our community. There’s nothing more rewarding than rolling up our sleeves and contributing to a cause that brings hope, stability, and a fresh start to those in need. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support Habitat’s mission of building strength through shelter—one home, one family, one community at a time.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after helping her with a Social Security problem.
Thank you for your support and assistance regarding my recent problems with the Social Security Administration, particularly the Field Office in Ocala, FL. Your office, particularly your caseworker, James, was able to get me an appointment the day after the receipt of my original request for help from your office and continued to assist me with a formal complaint against the SSA with the Office of the Inspector General due to the continued shirking of duties in this particular office and the Administration in general. Everyone in your office was kind, compassionate and took the time to listen thoroughly to my concerns and I am grateful for all of your staff members as well as your help.
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |