Politics

McConnell, GOP Senators Meet Zelenskyy in Surprise Kyiv Stop

Published

3 years ago

May 15, 2022

In this handout photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, left, shakes hands with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., in Kyiv, Ukraine, Saturday, May 14, 2022. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP)

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and a delegation of GOP senators met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv during an unannounced visit Saturday, delivering the latest show of American solidarity with the country at war with Russia.

“Our delegation reaffirmed to President Zelenskyy that the United States stands squarely behind Ukraine and will sustain our support until Ukraine wins this war,” McConnell said in a statement released after the delegation had left Ukraine.

A video posted on Zelenskyy’s Telegram account showed McConnell, R-Ky., and Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, John Barrasso of Wyoming and John Cornyn of Texas greeting him in the capital. Zelensky, in an Instagram post, called the visit “a strong signal of bipartisan support for Ukraine from the United States Congress and the American people.”

Later, in his nightly video address. Zelenskyy said he believed that the senators’ trip showed “the strong connection between the Ukrainian and American people. We discussed various areas of support for our country, including defense and finance, as well as strengthening sanctions against Russia.”

The trip came at a time when the Senate is working to approve a nearly $40 billion package for Ukraine, a substantial infusion of support that will push American aid to the region well above $50 billion. The measure includes $6 billion for Ukraine for intelligence, equipment and training for its forces, plus $4 billion in financing to help Ukraine and NATO allies build up their militaries.

Passage was delayed Thursday by Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who demanded the inclusion of a proposal to have an inspector general scrutinize the new spending. But final approval is not in doubt and could come in the week ahead, reflecting overwhelming support in Congress for replenishing the Ukrainian war effort.

“They’re only asking for the resources they need to defend themselves against this deranged invasion,” McConnell said this past week of the Ukrainians. “And they need this help right now.”

In his statement after the visit, McConnell called the visit “inspiring” and said he and his colleagues had seen firsthand “the courage, unity, and resolve of the Ukrainian people.”

McConnell added: “It is squarely in our national interest to help Ukraine achieve victory in this war and to help Ukraine and other countries deter other wars of aggression before they start.”

It was the second high-profile congressional delegation to stop in Ukraine in as many weeks. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., visited on May 1 with a group of House Democrats and promised Zelenskyy that the United States will “be there for you until the fight is done.”

First lady Jill Biden visited western Ukraine last weekend for a Mother’s Day meeting with Zelenskyy’s wife, Olena Zelenska.

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Politics

Orange County Commissioners Wilson, Uribe, and Semrad Sworn In for New Four-Year Terms

Published

2 days ago

December 5, 2024

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – In a momentous ceremony at the Orange County Convention Center, Commissioners Nicole Wilson (District 1), Mayra Uribe (District 3), and Kelly Semrad (District 5) took their oaths of office, marking the beginning of their new four-year terms on the Orange County Board of County Commissioners.

The event, attended by community leaders, family, and supporters, highlighted the importance of continuity and fresh perspectives in guiding Orange County’s growth and development over the next four years.

Stephanie Daltirus / Florida National News

Nicole Wilson – Championing Sustainability and Community Growth

Commissioner Nicole Wilson, re-elected for District 1, reaffirmed her commitment to sustainability, conservation, and managing the region’s rapid development. During her previous term, Wilson focused on preserving natural resources and ensuring responsible growth that balances environmental and economic interests.

Wilson emphasized, “We have a responsibility to manage growth in a way that honors our community’s character and protects our environment for future generations.”

Stephanie Daltirus / Florida National News

Mayra Uribe – Prioritizing Infrastructure and Family Advocacy

Representing District 3, Commissioner Mayra Uribe vowed to continue her focus on improving infrastructure, addressing housing affordability, and championing family-friendly policies. Known for her dedication to practical solutions, Uribe has been a strong advocate for improving roads, schools, and public services.

Uribe noted, “Our community’s success depends on how well we address the needs of our families and ensure every resident has access to essential resources.”

Stephanie Daltirus / Florida National News

Kelly Semrad – A Vision for Economic Innovation

Newly elected to represent District 5, Commissioner Kelly Semrad brings a fresh perspective to the Board, leveraging her background in business and academia. Semrad’s priorities include fostering economic innovation, enhancing workforce development, and ensuring Orange County remains competitive on a global scale.

“This is an exciting time for Orange County,” Semrad stated. “I’m honored to work with my colleagues to drive initiatives that strengthen our economy and create opportunities for all residents.”

Stephanie Daltirus / Florida National News

Takeaways from the Ceremony

Unity and Collaboration: Each commissioner emphasized the importance of working together to address Orange County’s challenges.
Community Engagement: Residents are encouraged to participate in discussions shaping Orange County’s future.
Innovation and Sustainability: The Board aims to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and infrastructure development.

Looking Ahead

The Orange County Board of Commissioners faces key priorities in the coming term, including tackling housing affordability, managing population growth, enhancing public transportation, and promoting sustainability. With a mix of experience and fresh leadership, the commissioners are poised to make significant progress in these areas.

____________________________________________________________________________________

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

Politics

Kelly Loeffler Nominated as SBA Administrator, Co-Chair of Presidential Inaugural Committee

Published

2 days ago

December 5, 2024

FNN NEWS

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (FNN) – Former U.S. Senator and business leader Kelly Loeffler, a prominent figure from Georgia, has been nominated to serve as Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA). The announcement highlights Loeffler’s extensive experience in business and public service, positioning her as a key figure in advancing opportunities for small businesses across the nation.

Championing Small Business Growth

The SBA Administrator role is critical in fostering growth and innovation within America’s small business sector. Loeffler’s nomination underscores her dedication to reducing regulatory barriers, cutting government waste, and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our great economy,” the statement emphasized. “Kelly will bring her experience in business and Washington to reduce red tape and unleash opportunities for small businesses to grow, innovate, and thrive.”

A Legacy of Leadership

Loeffler, who served as U.S. Senator during the Trump Administration, was instrumental in advancing key legislation, including the first-ever bill to protect women in sports. Before her Senate tenure, she built a 25-year career in financial services and technology. As Executive Vice President of a Fortune 500 company, she and her husband, Jeff, grew the business from 100 employees to over 10,000.

Her professional journey is deeply rooted in her belief in the “American Dream.” Raised on her family’s farm in Illinois as a fourth-generation farmer, Loeffler became the first in her family to attend college, earning a Business Administration degree from the University of Illinois and an MBA from DePaul University. She also made history as the first CFA charterholder to serve in the Senate.

Commitment to Public Service

Since leaving the Senate, Loeffler has dedicated herself to voter outreach and election integrity through her nonprofit organization, Greater Georgia. Her leadership in restoring confidence in elections and expanding voter registration efforts has been widely recognized.

In addition to her SBA Administrator nomination, Loeffler has been appointed Co-Chair of the Presidential Inaugural Committee, further reflecting her integral role in shaping the administration’s vision for the future.

A Vision for Accountability and Innovation

As SBA Administrator, Loeffler is expected to focus on ensuring taxpayer accountability, combating waste and fraud, and fostering an environment where small businesses can flourish without undue regulatory burdens. Her financial acumen and public service experience position her as a strong advocate for the nation’s entrepreneurs.

This nomination celebrates a career defined by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to empowering businesses and communities across the country.

Politics

Governor DeSantis Appoints Judges to 17th, 18th, and 20th Judicial Circuits

Published

2 days ago

December 4, 2024

FNN NEWS

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Governor Ron DeSantis announced three new judicial appointments on Monday, filling vacancies in the Seventeenth, Eighteenth, and Twentieth Judicial Circuits. Each appointee brings extensive legal experience to their new roles.

The Appointees:

Johnathan Lott, of Fort Lauderdale, appointed to the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court:
Lott has served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida since 2020. Before that, he was an Associate Attorney at Boies Schiller Flexner LLP. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and his juris doctor from the University of Chicago. Lott will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Murphy.
Laura Moody, of Rockledge, appointed to the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court:
Moody has been the Chief Legal Counsel for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office since 2019. Prior to that, she worked as an Assistant State Attorney in the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit. Moody holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida and a juris doctor from Florida A&M University. She steps into the position left vacant by the retirement of Judge Maloney.
Darrell Hill, of Labelle, appointed to the Twentieth Judicial Circuit Court:
Hill has served as a County Court Judge for Hendry County since 2018. Previously, he owned his private practice, Darrell R. Hill, P.A. Hill received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and his juris doctor from the Cumberland School of Law. He fills the judicial vacancy created by the enactment of HB 5401.

Background on the Appointments
These judicial appointments highlight Governor DeSantis’ focus on selecting experienced professionals with a commitment to serving the public and the judiciary. The appointees will play a crucial role in their respective circuits, addressing the legal needs of Florida’s residents and upholding the law.