As Lee County residents of District 79 vote over the next two weeks, there is one main issue that is motivating Republicans, Democrats, and Non-Party Affiliates alike from North Fort Myers to Buckingham to Lehigh to unite – the environment. Recently, a group of Republicans formed Republicans for John Scott (RFJS).
RFJS Founder Rachel Singletary, District 79 business owner and resident, established this grassroots organization in an effort to ensure we get strong leadership at the state level to help Southwest Floridians meaningfully address critical water and environmental issues that urgently need to be resolved.
“Solving Florida’s water quality problems should not be a partisan issue. In the case of water quality and our environment, it’s everyone’s issue regardless of your political preference. We are Southwest Floridians first and Republicans second. We have the opportunity to reverse the damage that is presently destroying our beaches, fisheries and reputation as a great place to live, work and play.” said Rachel Singletary, owner of Pine Forest Fruit and Flower Farm.
Vote by mail and early voting are already underway and with Election Day on Nov. 8th, Lee County residents will have the opportunity to elect Florida Native and 37 year Lee County resident John Scott, Candidate for Florida State Representative District 79. Democratic candidate John Scott makes a compelling point – one that seems lost on his opponent Matt Caldwell – the health of our environment is inextricably linked to the health of our economy. Tourism, not agriculture, is Florida’s biggest industry, valued at $70+ billion annually; water and other environmental pollution issues are already affecting jobs, property values, fishing, revenue, and many other facets of our local and statewide economy. In order to ensure it continues to thrive, Florida’s environment and natural resources must be conserved and protected.
“John Scott’s opponent, Incumbent Matt Caldwell, would have you believe that he is concerned with representing the voters in District 79, fiscal conservatism, and government accountability, but his voting record and actions tell a different story. Tallahassee special interests such as the sugar industry, oil and gas companies, power utility companies, phosphate mining and others deeply influence his votes and actions on public and environmental policy. These influences help his election chances but hurt our waterways, our economy, and our way of life. John Scott will provide District 79 and Lee County the effective and balanced leadership that is accountable to everyone and beholden to no one.” said Ray Judah, who served as Lee County Commissioner as a Republican for 24 years and co-founded Republicans for John Scott.