Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott has articulated his main objectives to safeguard America's national security in a letter addressed to the Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem. The senator expressed gratitude for the security measures undertaken by the Trump administration and DHS, contrasting these with what he called the "dangerous open-border policies of the previous administration."

The letter highlights Senator Scott's priorities, which include eliminating the "Catch & Release" practice and reinstating border security programs such as the "Remain in Mexico" and "Safe Third Country" policies. He has proposed the establishment of a checkpoint management office to ensure better operations and inter-agency coordination.

Additionally, Senator Scott aims to combat drug and human trafficking by expanding the maritime authority of Customs and Border Protection. He also suggests stronger background checks for migrant sponsors and the recovery of missing migrant children.

The senator advocates for improving disaster response and cybersecurity, focusing on enhanced protection particularly against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). On these issues, he suggested instituting an advisory group to improve disaster recovery and emphasized the need to return the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to its core mission.

Senator Scott also called for a crackdown on the influence of the CCP by banning federal funds for schools linked with the CCP. He urged prosecuting CCP operatives in the U.S.

Expressing his confidence in the direction taken by DHS under Secretary Noem's leadership, Senator Scott remarked, "After four years of disastrous open border policies under the previous administration that made our country less safe and endangered American families, I am glad to see U.S. national security interests prioritized in implementing border security and immigration policies."

Senator Scott concluded, "I look forward to working with you to address the nation’s threats and further our shared goal of ensuring safety and security for all Americans."

Read the full letter HERE.

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