The Florida Civil Rights Association joins the nation and the world in mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter, a visionary leader and tireless advocate for humanity.

President Carter championed civil liberties and human rights throughout his life. He courageously advocated for racial equality during a time of deep division in America, set global precedents for advancing democracy, and worked tirelessly to address affordable housing for families through his partnership with Habitat for Humanity. His profound belief in the dignity of every human being continues to inspire movements for equality and justice worldwide.

Florida Civil Rights Association President J. Willie David, III:

“President Jimmy Carter was not just a former president; he was a global icon for justice and compassion. His unwavering commitment to human rights and equality stood as a beacon of hope for generations. President Carter’s legacy of fighting for civil rights, eradicating poverty, and championing affordable housing aligns perfectly with the core values of the Florida Civil Rights Association.

He reminded us that ‘the bond of our common humanity is stronger than the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices.’ His tireless dedication to creating a better world, even in his post-presidency, is a testament to the power of selfless service.

We join the nation and the world in mourning his loss while celebrating the monumental impact of his life. President Carter’s legacy challenges us to continue the work he began—to lift others, to advocate for justice, and to remain relentless in the pursuit of a more equitable society. He will forever remain an inspiration to us all.”

Rest in peace, President Jimmy Carter. Your legacy of service and justice will guide generations to come.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Florida State Representative Gallop Franklin (D-Tallahassee) has been appointed to serve on five influential committees and subcommittees for the 2024-2026 term of the Florida Legislature. Chief among these appointments is his role as a member of the 26-member Florida House Commerce Committee, a key body that oversees significant aspects of the state’s economy and business environment. The announcement of committee assignments was made Tuesday by House Speaker Daniel Perez.

“The citizens of Gadsden and Leon counties have entrusted me with the sacred duty of representing their interests,” said Rep. Franklin. “It is my responsibility to advocate for their needs and work toward what’s best for all Floridians as I cast votes on their behalf in these committees and on the floor of the Florida House.”

The Florida House Commerce Committee is one of the most powerful committees in the legislature, considering matters related to Florida’s economy, business and professional regulation, housing, transportation infrastructure, energy, utilities, telecommunications, insurance, financial entities, and gaming. Rep. Franklin’s role on this committee will enable him to directly influence legislative decisions impacting businesses, industries, and communities across Florida.

In addition to the Florida House Commerce Committee, Rep. Franklin will also serve on the following subcommittees:

1. Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee
   This subcommittee addresses matters related to transportation infrastructure, energy, utilities, telecommunications services, broadband services, telephone solicitation, and emerging marketplaces. Rep. Franklin’s involvement in this subcommittee positions him to influence the development of critical infrastructure projects that will impact both his district and the entire state.
2. Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee
   Focused on access and affordability of health care, this subcommittee considers consumer price transparency, health facility regulation, and operations for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance programs for low-income Floridians. It also addresses commercial health insurance coverage and the state employee health plan. Rep. Franklin’s role here allows him to advocate for better health care solutions for his constituents in Gadsden and Leon counties.
3. Higher Education Budget Subcommittee
   This subcommittee examines legislation with a fiscal impact on workforce education, the Florida College System, state universities, private colleges and universities, and student financial aid. It also oversees the Division of Blind Services, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Board of Governors. With education being a top priority, Rep. Franklin’s participation in this subcommittee is vital for advancing educational opportunities for students in his district and statewide.
4. Housing, Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee
   This subcommittee handles issues related to housing, agriculture, tourism, economic development, defense development, sports, international trade, rural programs, unemployment compensation, growth management, homeowners’ associations, condominiums, and mobile homes. Given Florida’s reliance on agriculture and tourism as economic drivers, Rep. Franklin’s role in this subcommittee ensures that his district’s interests are represented as major decisions affecting these sectors are made.

The Florida House of Representatives will begin committee meetings in January 2025 to hear presentations and consider proposed legislation. These discussions are part of the lead-up to the 2025 Regular Session of the Florida Legislature, which officially begins on March 4, 2025, and is scheduled to adjourn on May 2, 2025. Key decisions on bills that affect Florida’s economy, education, health care, and infrastructure will be made during this period.

The scheduled 2025 Florida House committee weeks leading up to the Regular Session are as follows:

• January 13th through 17th
• January 21st through 24th
• February 3rd through 7th
• February 10th through 14th
• February 17th through 21st

Rep. Franklin’s appointments to these pivotal committees and subcommittees place him in a prime position to advocate for Gadsden and Leon counties while shaping policy that affects all Floridians. His leadership roles will allow him to influence crucial legislative areas, from health care reform and education funding to business development and infrastructure growth.

______________________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — Florida State Representative Susan Valdés has been named Vice Chair of the powerful House Budget Committee, a prestigious leadership role that grants her significant influence over the state’s funding priorities. The announcement comes just days after Valdés’ stunning decision to switch her party affiliation from Democrat to Republican.

Susan Valdés Named Vice Chair of Florida’s Budget Committee After Party Switch

Valdés’ new position puts her at the heart of Florida’s budgetary process, giving her the authority to help decide which proposals the committee will hear and what initiatives will receive state funding. Her promotion marks a dramatic rise in influence for the Tampa lawmaker, who now holds one of the most powerful committee assignments in the Florida House of Representatives.

A Strategic Move That Pays Off

Valdés’ decision to switch parties has been met with sharp criticism from Democrats, including calls for her resignation. The shift came shortly after she was re-elected to her Tampa-based House District 64 seat as a Democrat. Valdés, however, defended her move, stating that Democratic leadership — she did not specify names, but House Democratic Leader Rep. Fentrice Driskell was implied — pressured her to “ignore the needs” of her constituents.

Her gamble appears to have paid off. In addition to her appointment as Vice Chair of the Budget Committee, Valdés was also named to the Education and Employment Committee and assigned to key subcommittees, including Government Operations, Education Administration, Industries and Professional Activities, and Insurance and Banking. By comparison, most Democrats received far fewer committee assignments, and none were given leadership roles.

Impact on Tampa Constituents

With her new role, Valdés is uniquely positioned to champion projects that benefit her Tampa constituents. As Vice Chair of the Budget Committee, she will be instrumental in advocating for local infrastructure projects, educational funding, and community-based initiatives. Her additional roles on education and economic development committees will further enable her to influence policy and resource allocation that directly affects her district.

The move also gives Valdés a direct line to Republican leadership, which controls a supermajority in the Florida House. By aligning with the party in power, she’s now better equipped to advocate for her district’s priorities and push through critical funding requests.

Republicans Elevate Susan Valdés to Key Leadership Role in Florida’s State Budget

Valdés Among Tampa’s Most Influential Lawmakers

Valdés’ rapid rise to leadership makes her one of Tampa Bay’s most influential state lawmakers. Only Rep. Lawrence McClure, who represents House District 68 in East Hillsborough County, holds a higher-ranking role. McClure serves as Chair of the Budget Committee, with Valdés as his second-in-command.

While McClure’s senior role in budget discussions is significant, Valdés’ new position as Vice Chair offers her considerable leverage. Her voice will be heard in discussions that shape Florida’s multi-billion-dollar state budget, allowing her to direct attention and funding to issues that matter most to her district.

Backlash From Democrats

The backlash from Democrats has been fierce. Critics argue that Valdés’ switch was a betrayal of the voters who re-elected her as a Democrat. Calls for her resignation have grown louder, with some Democrats labeling her move as opportunistic. However, Valdés has remained steadfast, pointing to her enhanced ability to deliver results for her community under Republican leadership.

OTHER STORY

What’s Next for Susan Valdés?

With her new leadership role, Valdés’ next moves will be closely watched. As Vice Chair, she’ll be tasked with reviewing and prioritizing budget proposals that could have lasting impacts on Florida’s economy, education system, and public infrastructure. For Tampa’s House District 64, Valdés’ influence could mean faster approval for local projects, greater access to state resources, and more substantial advocacy for district needs.
________________________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com