Politics

[Opinion] Post-Election Support for Trump is Unprecedented

Published

9 years ago

May 4, 2017

OPINION: "Trumpers" all over the country are still on fire for their President, and for them, 2020 isn't far away. Photo: AP.

UNITED STATES (FNN NEWS) – From Indiana to Florida, coast to coast, and everywhere in between, Americans still love President Trump.

Picture it: 15,000 screaming fans, some having waited in line for hours all wanting to see their star performer. But we’re not talking about a rock concert or final four college basketball game. No, we’re talking about an audience of “Trumpers,” a slang name for those who rally and support our President, waiting to see him take the stage. Music energizes the crowds, including everything from Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera.” I’m not talking about pre-election rallies. We’re talking about the campaign continuing and people steadfast in their support of President Trump today, some six months after the election. As you know, President Trump filed to run for reelection on inauguration day, January 21, 2017, immediately igniting his base once again. But what exactly is the draw? I talked with a few loyal “Trumpers” to get the answer. To them, 2020 isn’t that far away.

What is it about President Trump that “Trumpers” find so endearing? “The reason Trump supporters continue to like President Trump is he follows through and does what he said he would do on the campaign trail,” says Tony Ledbetter (below), Chairman of the Republican Party of Volusia County and Vice Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida Chairman’s Caucus. “President Trump is his own best strategist. President Trump is playing chess. He’s three moves ahead of everyone while others are playing checkers. He has done more for the American people in 100 days than any President in United States history,” continued Ledbetter who, by the way, was my boss on the Trump campaign serving as Regional Director in Central Florida. Recently, he was invited to the White House in appreciation for his efforts in the 2016 campaign. Ledbetter also hosts his own radio show, “Trump Talk Live,” on Florida 1150AM/93FM every Thursday at 7pm, recapping Trump happenings and clarification of media #FakeNews.

Photo courtesy of Tony Ledbetter (pictured, right, with President Trump).

Photo courtesy of Tony Ledbetter (pictured, with President Trump).

Many find their affinity and loyalty to our President in his promises to the American people. “For me, it started from the first debate. His delivery on most topics resonated with me. Like he was truly talking to me,” said Lori Medlen, a court administrator for Avon Town Court in Indiana. Indiana easily went to President Trump in 2016. Medlen continued, “He makes me feel like it is possible for America to win again. He has passion and spirit that gets folks excited and involved. I am patient, loyal and will continue to support his efforts. I believe he desperately wants better for all Americans. My retirement account is showing good gains too.” Her sentiments resonated with many I sought feedback from.

Photo courtesy of Lori Medlen, Avon, Indiana (pictured)

Florida resident Leland McKee, special advisor to the Orange County Trump Republican Club, had this to say: “Voters are loyal to Trump because he remains very much an outsider free from Washington control. This is why they voted for Trump and will do so in greater numbers in 2020 for reelection.” Florida remains a key battleground state for anyone seeking the office of President, with all 99 delegates up for grabs for the top vote gainer. McKee added, “Reliable media outlets suggest 98 percent of likely voters who voted for Trump would vote for him again. Trump supporters are loyal because Trump has pretty much delivered on many campaign promises within his direct control.” Certainly the media is not a friend to our President, and McKee addresses that as well. “The mainstream media narratives of not funding the wall and repeal of Obamacare promises will take more time due to bureaucratic gridlock beyond Trump’s control.” (Obamacare repeal UPDATE below)

We must be patient with our President. He’s acknowledged the job, or the ability to get the work done, will take time. And after decades of underperforming presidents in various areas, reinventing this office will not happen overnight.

Photo courtesy of Leland McKee, special adviser to the Orange County Trump Republican Club.

Tennessee resident and Trump volunteer Elaine Ervin said, “I am loyal to President Trump because of the man he is. His actions have been bold, protective and loving for the American people. The President has never faltered on keeping the promises he made to us throughout the campaign.” Ervin’s support of our President is a consistent theme among “Trumpers.” Something about him and his sacrifice has touched people in a very unique and powerful way. “I would stand up and fight for this man with my dying breath – and there is no doubt he would do the same for America!” Ervin expressed. “President Trump loves America like no president in my lifetime. God bless him.”

Ervin traveled to Florida during the final weeks leading to the general election, assisting the Orange County 4 Trump team in its efforts to drive as many votes as possible for President Trump, who ultimately won the state of Florida.

Photo courtesy of Elaine Ervin (pictured), Tennessee volunteer.

More than once President Trump has reminded us he plans to keep his promise to America. “Promises Made Promises Kept” signs were visible throughout his campaign rally recently in Pennsylvania. For some, the promises like the border wall are simply not coming fast enough. We simply need to be reminded this “non” politician has been in office a few short months. I believe we’ll see substantial changes over the summer addressing these critical issues leading into a possible showdown in September. And excitingly, while writing this article, breaking news came on one of the campaign promises many suggested was reason enough to vote for Trump: the House repeal of Obamacare in a vote 217 to 212. There will be a battle in the Senate, but this is certainly a major victory for Americans and for President Trump and his administration. So it took a little more than 100 days…but only 5 days more. But who’s counting right?

Trump supporter Susan Haag noted, “President Trump is doing exactly what he said he was going to do. Secondly, as a working woman and small business owner, it’s nice to have some of the regulations removed so that small business owners can be successful. It makes people independent of government assistance.” President Trump recently signed an executive order that eliminated much of the red tape that makes running a business in America more challenging than necessary. Haag added, “President Trump wants America to be prosperous and safe for all of us.”

Haag is a enthusiastic volunteer for the Republican Party more recently helping organize and participate in voter registration efforts in West Orange County (FL). She has launched a monthly group, in cooperation with the West Orange Women’s Republican Federated, allowing people the flexibility of meeting in the evenings versus daytime hours. Haag concluded, “President Trump listens to the people.”

Photo courtesy of Susan Haag (pictured).

28,000 Doors? That’s the number of doors Maryann Pistilli, President of the Southeast Volusia County Republican Club and former Volusia County Regional Director of the Republican Leadership Initiative Program for the RPOF, knocked on last year to help get President Trump elected. Now that’s dedication and loyalty. Said Pistilli, “I will remain loyal to the President because he is a President of The People and for the People. He walked into the White House not owing any special interest or lobbyist a favor. He is all about America First.” In addition to getting to meet President Trump because of her remarkable grassroots efforts and ground game successes, Pistilli continues to promote President Trump with events such as one taking place this Saturday, in New Smyrna Beach. “On Inauguration Day, he gave the power back to the people. Together, with President Trump, we will continue to Make America Great Again,” explained Pistilli.

Photo courtesy of Maryann Pistilli (pictured)

WHY I’M WITH PRESIDENT TRUMP

A few have suggested I am attached to Trump’s celebrity as my motivation to work for and support him. That rumor might have been easier to believe in the beginning of the campaign when so many left leaning liberals consistently came at my support of President Trump with demeaning commentary and prediction of doom. They needed something to hate on … right? Actually, while I have always admired our President and did audition for and enjoy his reality show “The Apprentice” a number of years ago, it was his platform I formed an allegiance to, not his star status. But hey, it was pretty cool be part of introducing him at a rally and to be photographed with the President multiple times…not going to lie.

When President Trump speaks about Veterans and the need to take care of them, I trust he will. When he talks about border security and our need for the wall, I support him. When he addresses the deficit and unfair trade, I agree with him. Literally nearly every single part of his platform I believe is important to making America great again, and for that I will continue to be loyal to our 45th President of the United States. Of course, it’s no secret that my hope will be to continue working with the LGBTQ community who blindly follow the very left leaning narrative that President Trump is somehow against them. That’s simply not true and not supported by any of his actions. Like everyone else mentioned here and so many of our “Trumpers” throughout the country, I’m all in for President Trump and looking forward to his reelection in 2020.

______________________________________

Randy Ross is a contributing political writer for Florida National News. He is President of the Orange County Trump Republican Club and Florida Chairman for America First Federated. info@floridanationalnews.com

Florida

Vilchez Santiago Wins Union Backing; Daisy Morales Says Voters — Not Political Endorsements — Decide Elections

Published

4 days ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 intensified this week after candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations, prompting former State Rep. Daisy Morales to respond that while endorsements are important, elections are ultimately decided by voters.

Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations, including the Florida AFL-CIO, Central Florida AFL-CIO, SEIU Florida, the Florida Education Association, the Orange County Fire Fighters Association, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, the United Auto Workers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606, the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517, SMART Transportation Division PAC, and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596.

“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.

He said the endorsements were especially meaningful because he grew up in a union household.

“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”

Vilchez Santiago said he would continue advocating for workers’ rights and policies that strengthen Florida’s middle class if elected.

Morales Congratulates Opponent, Recognizes Union Members

In response, Morales congratulated Vilchez Santiago on receiving the endorsements while recognizing the contributions of organized labor across Florida.

“I congratulate Mr. Vilchez Santiago on earning the support of these organizations and appreciate every group that participates in our democratic process,” Morales said.

Morales praised union members working as teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, skilled trades workers, transportation employees and others who contribute to Florida’s economy.

“Every worker deserves respect, opportunity, safe workplaces, fair wages, and the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Morales Points to 2020 Democratic Primary

Morales said endorsements are valued but do not determine election outcomes.

She cited the 2020 Democratic Primary for Florida House District 48, when Vilchez Santiago received endorsements from elected officials, political organizations and advocacy groups before Morales defeated him and three other Democratic candidates to win the Democratic nomination.

Following that election, Florida Politics wrote that endorsements “didn’t matter” after Morales emerged victorious.

“That election demonstrated a principle that remains true today,” Morales said. “Political endorsements are valued expressions of support, but they never replace the judgment of the voters. The people—not political insiders or special interests—have the final say on Election Day.”

Morales later won the general election and represented House District 48 from 2020 to 2022.

Contrasting Campaign Messages

The exchange highlights the different messages each campaign is emphasizing as the Aug. 18 Democratic primary approaches.

Vilchez Santiago has focused on labor support, workers’ rights, affordability, housing, healthcare and reducing the influence of special interests.

Morales has centered her campaign on her legislative experience, bipartisan record and accomplishments during her term in the Florida House.

Morales said her official legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring more than 110 bills during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions and helping secure more than $12.5 million in state appropriations supporting higher education, healthcare, workforce development, nonprofit organizations, infrastructure improvements and community projects.

Among the legislative priorities Morales highlighted were educational opportunities for disabled veterans, property tax relief, consumer protection, public safety, workforce development, healthcare initiatives, infrastructure investments and services benefiting veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities.

“Working families deserve representatives who deliver results—not just campaign promises,” Morales said.

Leadership and Experience

Morales said voters should evaluate candidates based on their accomplishments in public office.

“There is a clear difference in this race. My opponent is asking voters to consider who has endorsed his campaign. I am asking voters to examine my record of public service, legislative accomplishments, and proven results. Experience matters because results matter.”

She encouraged voters to review her official legislative record on the Florida House of Representatives website, which includes sponsored and co-sponsored legislation, committee assignments, voting history and appropriations.

Primary Election Approaches

The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, with early voting scheduled for Aug. 3–16. The winner will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

House District 43 includes portions of east Orange County, including Azalea Park, Union Park, Alafaya, Orlando, Rio Pinar and surrounding communities.

Both campaigns are expected to continue emphasizing their respective strengths as voters begin casting ballots in one of Central Florida’s most closely watched Democratic legislative primaries.

Central Florida News

Orlando Begins Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Review, Addresses Property Tax Reform and Future Spending

Published

4 days ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The City of Orlando will officially begin its Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget process on Monday, July 13, with a public budget workshop outlining Mayor Buddy Dyer’s proposed spending plan for the coming fiscal year.

City officials said the proposed budget is balanced, does not increase the city’s millage rate, and continues to prioritize the core municipal services residents rely on every day.

Budget Workshop Scheduled for July 13

The budget process begins with a workshop at 10 a.m. in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of Orlando City Hall.

During the workshop, Mayor Buddy Dyer and members of the Orlando City Council will receive an overview of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget from Chief Financial Officer Jose Fernandez and Assistant Chief Financial Officer Jason Wojkiewicz.

In addition to presenting the proposed spending plan, city financial officials will discuss proposed property tax reform and its potential impact on future city budgets and long-term financial planning.

Public Hearings Scheduled for September

Following the budget workshop, Orlando residents will have opportunities to provide public input during two public hearings in September.

Budget Hearing No. 1

Monday, Sept. 14, 2026
5:01 p.m.
City Council Chambers, Orlando City Hall

During the first hearing, the City Council is expected to adopt a proposed millage rate and establish a tentative Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget and Capital Improvement Program.

Budget Hearing No. 2

Monday, Sept. 28, 2026
5:01 p.m.
City Council Chambers, Orlando City Hall

The second and final public hearing will include the City Council’s vote to adopt the final millage rate, Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget and Capital Improvement Program.

Budget Takes Effect Oct. 1

If approved, Orlando’s Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget will take effect on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, marking the beginning of the city’s new fiscal year.

FY 2026-27 Budget Timeline

Monday, July 13 — Budget Workshop (10 a.m.)
Monday, Sept. 14 — First Public Budget Hearing (5:01 p.m.)
Monday, Sept. 28 — Final Public Budget Hearing and Adoption Vote (5:01 p.m.)
Thursday, Oct. 1 — Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Implementation

The annual budget process establishes funding priorities for city operations, public safety, transportation, parks, infrastructure, capital improvements and other municipal services while determining the city’s property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year.

Politics

State Rep. Angie Nixon Condemns Deadly ICE Shooting, Calls for Independent Investigation

Published

4 days ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Following the fatal shooting of 52-year-old father and construction worker Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Houston, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate and Florida State Representative Angie Nixon released the following statement:

Statement from Rep. Angie Nixon

“Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was a father who spent decades building homes and providing for his family. He was fatally shot in the street by an ICE agent operating from an unmarked vehicle. My heart breaks for his wife and three sons.

“Our nation faces a moral choice. We must stop investing billions of taxpayer dollars in an agency that, in my view, terrorizes communities, operates with too little accountability, and often conducts enforcement actions without body cameras or clear identification. Those resources should instead be invested in strengthening our communities and helping families meet their basic needs. I believe ICE should be abolished.

“I stand in full solidarity with Lorenzo’s family in calling for a fully independent and transparent investigation into his death. I also call for the immediate release of his brother and the other individuals who were detained during this incident if they are being held without legal justification.”

Key Points

Rep. Angie Nixon expressed condolences to the family of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo.
She called for a fully independent and transparent investigation into the fatal shooting.
Nixon criticized ICE’s enforcement practices and renewed her call to abolish the agency.
She urged the release of Lorenzo’s brother and others detained during the incident if their continued detention is not legally justified.