(C) Daily Kos This story was originally published by Daily Kos and is unaltered. . . . . . . . . . . Florida Needs to Get Smart this Special Election; Who Better than an Educator? [1] ['This Content Is Not Subject To Review Daily Kos Staff Prior To Publication.'] Date: 2024-12-30 Hey everyone, I thought I’d give you an update on how the campaign is going for the special elections in FL triggered by the Trump appointments. Yes, I did have to make a new account, it’s a long story. It’s the real me, I promise. Anyway, here’s what’s been on my mind. Florida has suffered just over 190 injured or killed students through shootings, in 2024 alone. There are 180 school days in a school year, meaning there were approximately one to two children injured or killed due to gun violence on school grounds per school day on average. As a father of two, an educator, and a Floridian, these statistics concern me. Meanwhile, current Republican State Senator, and my opponent, Randy Fine is concerned with limiting freedom of expression. The following dots indicate a location where a school shooting has occurred in 2024: It’s only when I look at my kids that the motivation for my candidacy in the upcoming special election for Florida’s 6th Congressional District becomes clear. On April 1, 2025, we have the opportunity to really put a dent in the Republican party bus that our Congress has become to ensure our future. This opportunity to represent our shared values and fight for a brighter future wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering and incredible network of supporters who believe in our mission up to this point, with much more work to do. Progression cannot be made without Progressives, after all, it's in the name. Helping those in my community that feel the same about their families and the District 6 community is what fuels my campaign. And fuel is what this campaign car needs. We face an opponent whose agenda does not reflect the values of inclusion, empathy, and progress we hold dear. We have all been caught in I-95 traffic, and it is rough. Only with applied assistance can traffic be cleared, and with your continued support I am confident this traffic jam we call a Republican majority can be helped. This isn’t just about one election—it’s about safeguarding a Democratic presence in our Congress. How can someone help? Easy. From conversations with neighbors to small-dollar contributions and tireless efforts to get the word out, your actions can make our strive for change clear. Efforts like these are what really move a campaign, and I know my Floridians: there is no limit to what can be done. I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges so many of us face, especially when we are talking about the everyday juggling a parent does. That’s why I’m committed to fighting for progressive policies that address the needs of everyday people. Although my free time is mostly consumed by Marvel movies and popcorn, I have made time to sit down with local real estate agents and Florida natives to consider real-life concerns. My boys’ would want nothing more than superpowers to crush it on the ice playing hockey, and sometimes I wish I could have the superpower to knock some sense into politicians. We know how much Marvel loves planning build-ups, and though sometimes tedious it leads to pretty cool movies in the end, and that’s the approach I'm taking on the policies we need to see introduced. That’s what my plan is: a four part plan for real reform. Our healthcare system needs real changes. No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and affording life-saving treatment. I will fight to ensure every individual has access to affordable, comprehensive care and to protect the gains we’ve made under the Affordable Care Act. Resetting the economy to work for hardworking families is at the heart of my campaign. I believe in creating good-paying jobs, increasing wages, and supporting small businesses to build a stronger, more equitable economy for everyone. Our environment is under threat, but we have the tools to fight back. I’m committed to combating climate change, promoting renewable energy, and protecting our natural resources for future generations. It should be no surprise I’m deeply passionate about education. I’ll work to strengthen public schools, ensure educators are supported, and make sure every child has a safe environment to learn and grow, gun-free and book-full. Keeping up with this election won’t be hard either. Look on the sites you already scroll for hours on; Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. Just search my name, Josh Weil, and get the ball rolling on making a difference. This election isn’t just about me; it’s about us. My Trump crowned opponent, Randy Fine, represents policies that harm our community and deepen inequality. Together, we will create a future our children and grandchildren will be proud of, and it all starts here. In fact, your support now is more important than ever. I finally got an actblue account set up! We are coming up quick on our first quarter deadline, which big national donors will use to gauge support. You can click HERE: secure.actblue.com/... Don’t save the tabs for later and don’t read the news and regret your choices later. Now is our time! THANK YOU- Josh Weil [END] --- [1] Url: https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2024/12/30/2294415/-Florida-Needs-to-Get-Smart-this-Special-Election-Who-Better-than-an-Educator?pm_campaign=front_page&pm_source=latest_community&pm_medium=web Published and (C) by Daily Kos Content appears here under this condition or license: Site content may be used for any purpose without permission unless otherwise specified. via Magical.Fish Gopher News Feeds: gopher://magical.fish/1/feeds/news/dailykos/