Florida FreedomWorks Leaders Canvass Washington, D.C.

On July 19th and 20th, Florida State Director John Hallman and West Florida Chapter Leader Tom Gaitens traveled to Washington, D.C. to visit with the Florida Delegation of Representatives and both US Senators from Florida. John and Tom lobbied on the Freedom Agenda of Asbestos, Telecom, Death Tax and Social Security.

John Hallman reported that a majority of the Representatives from Florida were very supportive of the Freedom Agenda as well as Senator Martinez. Senator Bill Nelson supports the repeal of the Death Tax and dislikes the Asbestos Trust Fund scheme. On the Death Tax, 15 of 18 Republican Representatives co-sponsored the repeal of the Death Tax. John and Tom briefed Representatives and Senators as well as their staff on the Cable Choice Act of 2005 and a majority of them responded with support.

Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart and Connie Mack said after being briefed on Asbestos, that they would seriously consider co-sponsoring the Medical Criteria Bill (HR1957), the other Representatives commented that they did not like the Asbestos Trust Fund scheme, many commented that it would be just another big government black hole.

The Florida Republican delegation of Representatives as well as Senator Martinez all support Personal Retirement Accounts, including the “GROW Accounts” and many of them commented that they would still like to see large PRA accounts still be on the table.

John Hallman commented, “I was very encouraged from the response of the Florida delegation and their support of the Freedom Agenda.” John added, “It was a great assest to have Tom Gaitens with me, he has a great knowledge of the issues and was able to articulate our message to the legislators. Tom continues to show why he is Florida FreedomWorks top activist and a past Minuteman of the Month.”

Great work guys, and great photos!