As we gear up for President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address tonight, there’s a notable Floridian presence in the U.S. House gallery. With the privilege of inviting one guest each, members of Congress have chosen individuals who reflect significant issues and stories.
Several Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have invited survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking ring, highlighting a commitment to justice and awareness. Meanwhile, some Democrats, like Florida’s own Maxwell Frost from Orlando, have opted to skip the address in favor of the People’s State of the Union, a progressive event organized by MeidasTouch and MoveOn.org Civic Action.
Among the Floridian guests, Retired Lt. Col.
Alexander Vindman stands out. Known for his role as a whistleblower in Trump’s first impeachment, Vindman is now running for Florida GOP Sen.
Ashley Moody’s seat, having made a striking entry into the race with a $1.7 million fundraising start. His brother, Virginia Rep.
Eugene Vindman, invited him to the address, emphasizing the principle that no one is above the law.
On the sports front, Trump extended invites to the U.S. men’s hockey team, fresh off their gold medal victory over Canada in the Winter Olympics. Florida Panthers’ Matthew Tkachuk is expected to attend, while the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Jake Guentzel is staying in Tampa. The U.S. women’s hockey team, also gold medalists, declined due to scheduling conflicts.
U.S. Rep.
Kathy Castor of Tampa Bay has chosen to spotlight the critical issue of health insurance costs by inviting Linda Misner, a local small business owner. Misner’s family has faced skyrocketing premiums after the expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits, a situation affecting millions across the country.
Castor’s invitation underscores the ongoing debate over health care affordability, as premiums for some have soared from $300 to over $3,200 a month.
In a similar vein, Democratic Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz has invited a constituent dealing with high health insurance costs, while Florida GOP Sen. Rick Scott has chosen to bring Kevin O’Leary, the Shark Tank host who recently moved to Florida, attracted by its pro-business climate.
As the address unfolds, these guests symbolize the diverse issues at play-from health care challenges to political integrity and athletic achievements-each bringing their unique stories to the forefront of national discourse.