Politics

Like old pals, Trump, Putin make light of election meddling

Published

6 years ago

June 28, 2019

OSAKA, Japan (AP) — Smiling together on a global stage, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin cheerfully dismissed Russian interference in U.S. elections, shared their contempt for the world’s news media and generally flaunted their personal bond on Friday.

That was one day after the Russian leader praised the president of the United States for his nationalist world views and vigorously declared the days of the West’s liberals are dying if not already dead.

For some time, Trump has defied the once-entrenched Republican distrust if not outright hatred of the powerful nation at the heart of the former Soviet Union. But Friday’s joint appearance seemed to go even further.

As the two leaders sat down for their first meeting in nearly a year, a reporter asked Trump if he would warn Putin not to meddle in America’s upcoming 2020 election.
“Of course,” the president replied. Then he turned to Putin and facetiously said, “Don’t meddle in the election.” He playfully repeated the request while pointing at Putin, who laughed.

The exchange at the Group of 20 summit in Osaka echoed one of the defining moments of Trump’s presidency from a year ago in Helsinki, Finland. There, Trump pointedly did not admonish Putin about election interference and did not side with U.S. intelligence agencies over his Russian counterpart.

Putin disputes special counsel Robert Mueller’s conclusion that Russia interfered in the 2016 U.S. election to help Trump win. Putin told the Financial Times this week that it was “mythical interference.”

“What happened in reality? Mr. Trump looked into his opponents’ attitude to him and saw changes in American society and he took advantage of this,” Putin told the newspaper.

Putin, who has highlighted populist movements in Europe and America, praised Trump for trying to stem the flow of migrants and drugs from Mexico and expressed a view that liberalism — the main political ideology in the West since the end of World War II — has outlived its days.

“This liberal idea presupposes that nothing needs to be done — that migrants can kill, plunder and rape with impunity because their rights as migrants have to be protected,” Putin said, playing into issues Trump is emphasizing in his re-election campaign.

“The liberal idea has become obsolete,” he said in the interview.

The two leaders also bonded Friday over their mutual disdain for “fake news.”
Trump eyed the reporters at a photo opportunity with the Russian leader and told him, “Get rid of them, fake news. You don’t have the problem in Russia. We have it; you don’t have it.”

Putin responded, “Yes, yes, we have it. The same.”

The two men shared a laugh at that before sitting down for their first face-to-face discussion since the Mueller report was issued in April. The special counsel concluded that Moscow extensively interfered in the 2016 presidential campaign but said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between Russia and the Trump campaign.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump for kidding around about election meddling. He said the joke is on America and “Putin’s the only one laughing.”
“President Trump is basically giving Putin a green light to interfere in 2020,” Schumer tweeted.

Former President Jimmy Carter had even harsher words. The Democrat said he believed Russian interference put Trump into the White House, though he didn’t elaborate.

“There is no doubt that the Russians did interfere in the election,” Carter said at a human rights discussion in Leesburg, Virginia. “I think the interference, though not yet quantified, if fully investigated would show that Trump didn’t actually win the election in 2016. He lost the election and was put into office because the Russians interfered.”

In Japan, Trump told reporters that “many positive things” would come out of his good relationship with Putin, who invited him to visit Russia next year to mark the 75th anniversary of the allied victory in World War II.

The friendly tone of Putin’s exchange with Trump stood in sharp contrast to the Russian leader’s frosty meeting Friday with outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May.

May again confronted Putin over the March 2018 nerve agent attack on double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the British city of Salisbury. The two spent weeks in critical condition but eventually recovered. Britain has accused Russia of poisoning them with the nerve agent Novichok, which Moscow has denied.

Before their meeting — their first since poisonings that also resulted in the death of a British citizen — May said Britain would push for the two Russian military intelligence officers accused of involvement in the attack to be brought to justice. She told Putin during the meeting that “there cannot be a normalization of our bilateral relationship until Russia stops the irresponsible and destabilizing activity,” according to Downing Street.

Putin has insisted that Russia had nothing to do with the poisoning and argued that bilateral ties were far more important than “the fuss about spies not worth five copecks.”
While Trump has long placed a premium on establishing close personal ties with Putin, the president has disputes with Moscow, too. The Trump administration has increased sanctions and other pressures on the Russian government.

The United States and Russia also are on opposing sides of a crisis with Iran, which is accused by the U.S. of shooting down an American drone. Trump nixed a possible retaliatory airstrike but says the U.S. remains firm that Tehran should not have nuclear weapons and must stop supporting militant groups.

At a summit last November in Argentina, Trump canceled his meeting with Putin over Russia’s seizure of two Ukrainian vessels and their crews in the Sea of Azov. Those crew members remain detained, yet Trump opted to forge ahead with the Osaka meeting. He said Friday alongside Putin that the fate of the sailors had yet to be discussed.

The leaders both have announced their withdrawal from a key arms control pact, the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. It is to terminate this summer, raising fears of a new arms race. Another major nuclear agreement, the New Start Treaty, is to expire in 2021 unless Moscow and Washington negotiate an extension.

The White House said after Friday’s meeting that the leaders agreed to keep talking about a “21st century model of arms control,” which Trump said needs to include China.

In addition to Iran, the two leaders also discussed Syria, Venezuela and Ukraine. The U.S. and Russia are on opposing sides on those three issues, too.

Florida

Rep. Johanna López and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez File Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Florida Pool Safety Standards

Published

1 day ago

October 24, 2025

Willie David

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Florida State Representative Johanna López (D-Orlando) and State Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez (R-Doral) have joined forces to introduce bipartisan legislation, House Bill 117 and Senate Bill 244, aimed at strengthening residential pool safety standards statewide. The bills address Florida’s ongoing drowning crisis, particularly among young children, and seek to save lives through updated, enforceable safety requirements.

Legislation Overview

If enacted, HB 117 / SB 244 would require all residential properties with a swimming pool to include at least one safety feature—such as a barrier, pool cover, or alarm—when sold or transferred after October 1, 2026, regardless of when the pool was originally built.

Additionally, home inspectors would be required to report any violations during property transactions, ensuring compliance before ownership transfers.

Florida’s Drowning Crisis

Florida has led the nation in unintentional drowning deaths among children ages 1 to 4 every year since 2018. According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, 97 child drowning deaths were reported in 2025, with 81% occurring in residential settings—especially in older homes built before current safety laws took effect.

Lawmakers Speak on Saving Lives

“Too many families in Florida have suffered the unimaginable loss of a child due to accidental drowning — an entirely preventable tragedy,” said Representative Johanna López. “This legislation is about protecting every Floridian who enters a pool, whether they’re a child or an adult who never learned to swim. No family should have to endure such a heartbreaking loss when we have the means to prevent it.”

“The age of a swimming pool should not determine whether someone lives or dies from a preventable accident,” added Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez. “It’s been 25 years since the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act was passed. This legislation will finally close the gap and include all pools—new and old—saving countless lives.”

Implementation Timeline

If passed and signed into law, the new pool safety requirements would take effect on July 1, 2026, marking the most significant update to Florida’s residential pool safety laws in a quarter century.

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News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Central Florida News

Orlando Fire Chief Charlie Salazar Resigns After Three Years; Mayor Dyer Appoints Jason Revoldt as Interim Chief

Published

1 week ago

October 17, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — After three years of dedicated service, Orlando Fire Chief Charlie Salazar has announced his resignation from the Orlando Fire Department, effective November 3, 2025. The City of Orlando expressed its deep appreciation for Chief Salazar’s leadership and contributions to the department’s growth and modernization.

Salazar’s Leadership and Achievements

During his tenure, Chief Salazar spearheaded several major initiatives that strengthened the department’s operational capacity and community outreach. His key accomplishments include:

Securing approval for up to four new fire stations to meet the demands of Orlando’s growing population.
Overseeing the approval of a new OFD Training Complex, which is set to break ground soon.
Launching a Cadet Program that provides local residents—especially those from underrepresented communities—pathways to become firefighters.
Creating the Community Engagement & Preparedness Officer role to enhance public safety awareness.
Introducing the PMO crossover-to-firefighter program, expanding professional opportunities within the department.

In a farewell statement, Salazar shared, “My departure comes with a personal decision to return home to Texas, where I look forward to spending more time with my growing family — including two grandchildren who were born during my time here. While this next chapter brings joy and reunion, it also brings a bittersweet farewell to a city and a department that welcomed me with trust and purpose.”

Mayor Dyer Appoints Revoldt as Interim Fire Chief

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer has appointed Deputy Chief Jason Revoldt as Interim Fire Chief, effective October 18, 2025. Revoldt, a 24-year veteran of the department, brings extensive experience across multiple operational areas. He is certified as a State of Florida Paramedic, Law Enforcement Officer, FBI Bomb Technician, and Arson K-9 Handler.

Before this appointment, Revoldt led the Life Safety Bureau, overseeing new construction and development reviews, the Arson & Bomb Squad, community outreach and safety programs, and the Fire Marshal’s Office.

City Thanks Salazar, Welcomes Revoldt’s Leadership

City officials extended heartfelt thanks to Chief Salazar for his service and steady leadership over the past three years. They also expressed confidence in Chief Revoldt’s ability to continue guiding the department with integrity and dedication.

“We’re thankful for Chief Salazar’s stewardship and congratulate Chief Revoldt on his new role,” the City’s statement read.

OrlandoFireDepartment, ChiefSalazar, JasonRevoldt, BuddyDyer, OrlandoNews

Florida

Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales Closes Out FNN’s 2025 National Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight

Published

1 week ago

October 15, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News is honored to close out National Hispanic Heritage Month by showcasing the achievements and contributions of The Honorable Daisy Morales, former Florida State Representative. Her impact in state lawmaking, conservation, advocacy, and bipartisanship continues today through her nonprofit work—ensuring her legacy of service to Floridians and Puerto Rican communities endures for generations to come.

Watch Video:

The Honorable Daisy Morales: A Legacy of Service, Leadership & Impact

The Honorable Daisy Morales is more than a former Florida State Representative — she is a bold and principled public servant whose distinguished career spans federal, local, and state roles, always rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage and unwavering commitment to bipartisanship.

Born in The Bronx, New York, Morales earned an Associate’s Degree in criminology and administration and has devoted over 30 years to public service — including 24 years in U.S. federal government roles with the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State.

Today, she continues her mission as Founder and President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and advancing Puerto Rican culture, education, and empowerment throughout Florida.

Bipartisan Leadership and Getting Things Done

Throughout her career, Morales has earned a reputation as a soft-spoken yet determined leader who works across party lines to deliver real results for her constituents. In the Florida House, she was known not just as a Democrat, but as a pragmatic problem-solver willing to collaborate to get meaningful legislation passed.

Her legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring over 100 bipartisan bills that became law. One of her signature legislative successes, CS/HB 45 – Educational Opportunities for Disabled Veterans, was introduced with Rep. Christopher Benjamin. The law provides tuition and fee waivers for disabled veterans attending Florida’s state universities, career centers, and colleges—closing the gap left by the federal GI Bill.

Morales’ bipartisan approach exemplified her belief that effective leadership means putting people before politics.

Trailblazer in Hispanic and Minority Representation

During her tenure, Morales made history multiple times. She became the first Hispanic state lawmaker to join Black colleagues in a sit-in protest on the Florida House floor, taking a powerful stand against the Governor’s congressional redistricting map that threatened to weaken minority representation. Holding a sign that read, “Legislators serve the people. Not your party,” Morales stood in solidarity with lawmakers defending Black and Hispanic congressional districts across Florida.

State Rep. Daisy Morales talks with Florida Division of Emergency Management staff at an event in January 2021. Photo: Florida Representative Daisy Morales (Facebook).

Leadership in Crisis Response

Florida State Representative Daisy Morales distinguished herself as a proven leader during some of Florida’s most challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple hurricane emergencies. Her hands-on approach and decisive actions demonstrated her deep commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Floridians.

During the height of the COVID-19 crisis, Rep. Morales was the first state lawmaker to call on Governor Ron DeSantis to establish a 24-hour mass vaccination site—a proactive measure aimed at expanding vaccine access, especially in underserved communities within her district. Her leadership helped accelerate local vaccination efforts and ensured that critical resources reached residents most in need.

Morales also played a visible and responsive role during hurricane emergencies, coordinating with state and local officials to deliver aid, share vital information, and connect affected families with recovery resources. Her consistent engagement in times of crisis reflected her commitment to effective governance, rapid response, and community resilience at the state level.

She was also the first elected official in Orange County to be sworn in by Mayor Jerry Demings, the county’s first African American mayor, during her re-election as District 2 Supervisor for the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District in 2018. In 2014, she made history again as the first Orange County official sworn in by a member of Congress, U.S. Congressman Alan Grayson.

Thanks to the leadership of Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor Daisy Morales, drivers entering Orange County from Osceola County now know they’re crossing into a designated Soil & Water Conservation District—this time in District 4.

Supervisor Daisy Morales and Orange County Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero joined forces to install two new conservation awareness signs in Commissioner Cordero’s district. The new signs are located on Narcoossee Road near Boggy Creek Road and South Orange Avenue near Mary Louis Lane, each positioned at the Osceola County line. The signs inform motorists that they are entering both Orange County and a Soil & Water Conservation District, highlighting the county’s ongoing commitment to natural resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

This initiative builds on Supervisor Morales’s earlier success in promoting conservation awareness. In 2018, Morales made history by partnering with District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla to erect the first two Soil & Water Conservation District signs in Orange County. Those signs were installed along the Orange–Seminole County line, one on Chuluota Road and another on Dean Road, marking the start of a broader countywide effort to educate the public about conservation district boundaries and their role in protecting natural resources.

These signs serve as more than simple markers—they are visual reminders of the importance of conserving soil and water resources and of the role local government plays in promoting sustainability. By raising public awareness through visible, everyday engagement, Morales continues to advance her mission of community education and environmental protection across Central Florida.

Her leadership and representation have served as an inspiration to Puerto Ricans and Latinos seeking a voice in Florida government.

Key Legislative Wins with Lasting Impact

Rep. Morales’ tenure in the Florida Legislature was marked by people-centered policymaking that directly improved the lives of veterans, families, and vulnerable residents. Her legislative achievements include:

House Bill 45 — Provides educational opportunities for disabled veterans. This bill became a national model, inspiring similar legislation in other states. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis held a bill-signing ceremony for six Military bills, including HB 45.
House Bill 213 — Created a Down Syndrome Awareness specialty license plate, generating both funding and awareness for Down Syndrome initiatives.
House Bill 13 — Increased property tax exemptions for widows, widowers, blind persons, and persons who are totally disabled from $500 to $5,000. This legislation provided significant financial relief to vulnerable Floridians.
House Bill 857 (Amended into HB 1347 / SB 1120) — Strengthened regulations on commercial telephone solicitation, protecting consumers from predatory telemarketing practices.

House Bill 855 — Deregulated barber services, creating a streamlined process for barber certification and expanding access to professional licensing opportunities. The law authorizes licensed barbers to operate mobile services, allowing them to shampoo, cut, and style hair outside traditional barbershops, including in clients’ homes or other approved locations.

Representative Daisy Morales introduced House Resolution (8069) designating April 2 as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida. The resolution received support through Proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Through these efforts, Morales consistently prioritized service, dignity, and opportunity for all Floridians.

Looking Forward: Heritage, Service, and Continuing Advocacy

Today, as the Founder and President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, Morales continues to serve her community with the same vision and heart that defined her public office. Her organization promotes education, cultural pride, leadership, and civic engagement among Puerto Ricans in Florida and beyond.

Her legacy is not only legislative—it’s symbolic. Daisy Morales represents unity, humility, and perseverance in the face of division. As Florida and the nation celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, her story stands as a reminder that leadership built on integrity and community service transcends politics.

Through its spotlight on Representative Daisy Morales, Florida National News proudly honors her Puerto Rican heritage and her significant impact as a Latina leader in public service, conservation, and advocacy.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com