Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott has put forward a resolution to honor the memory of Jereima "Jeri" Bustamante on the seventh anniversary of her tragic death. Bustamante, who was Scott's press secretary, died in a boating accident on April 8, 2018.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Senator Scott commented, "For all of us who were blessed to know Jeri, it is hard to believe that today marks seven years since we lost her. Anyone who knew her, or even met her for a moment, saw the kind, selfless, and driven person she was, destined for greatness."

Scott recalled their time working together, stating, "As my press secretary in the Governor’s Office, Jeri and I became great friends as we spent most days traveling to events across the state, practicing my Spanish, meeting hundreds of people a day, and talking to dozens of reporters. Now, as I spend my days in the halls of the Senate, I often think about how it was her dream to work in Washington, D.C., and eventually on the podium of the White House."

He added, "I have no doubt in my mind that she would have made that happen because Jeri was simply unstoppable, facing every challenge with a warm smile, hard work, and a positive attitude because she was living her dream. Jeri was loved and respected by all, and our hearts are still broken because she is not with us today. We miss you, Jeri, and will never forget you."