DeSantis counters Trump’s false claims on Florida’s COVID record.
Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis fires back at former President Donald Trump’s claims about his handling of COVID as Florida’s governor.
During a recent interview with Megyn Kelly, Trump criticized Dr. Anthony Fauci and claimed that DeSantis had praised him. However, DeSantis quickly refuted these statements.
“I think it’s important to say that that is different from what Donald Trump used to say,” DeSantis pointed out. “He used to praise Florida for being open and commend me for handling COVID correctly. Now, because I’m a threat to him, he’s changing his tune.”
DeSantis went on to address the false claims made by Trump, stating, “We never mandated mRNA COVID shots. In fact, I called a special session of the Florida legislature to prevent any mandates in the state. We even provided protections for employees at private businesses, despite establishment Republicans suggesting businesses should have the freedom to do as they please.”
DeSantis also called out South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, who supported allowing businesses to mandate vaccines. He highlighted her statement that if individuals didn’t want to work for a company with a vaccine mandate, they should find another job.
Workers whose employers are mandating a vaccine for continued employment have the power to say no. Our robust economy and job market gives them the option to find a new employer that values personal choice and responsibility, and doesn’t force mandates on their employees.
— Kristi Noem (@KristiNoem) July 31, 2021
DeSantis emphasized that Florida led the way in reopening and faced criticism from the media for doing so. He also clarified that he never had any love for Fauci, as evidenced by his campaign merchandise attacking the doctor.
DeSantis concluded by calling out conservative media figures who know the truth but are hesitant to challenge Trump. He challenged them to “call a spade a spade” and stand up for the truth.
Stop what you’re doing and watch this.
🔥 DESANTIS GOES OFF on Trump’s false attacks over COVID and his many excuses for not firing Anthony Fauci:
Trump “used to praise Florida for having been open. He used to say I was one of the country’s great governors. He said we handled… pic.twitter.com/ydphVZmYTg
— DeSantis War Room 🐊 (@DeSantisWarRoom) September 14, 2023
How does Governor DeSantis suggest a constructive approach to public health by focusing on the science and data instead of attacking individuals like Dr. Fauci
Ees who choose not to get vaccinated. So it’s disingenuous for him to suggest otherwise.”
DeSantis also highlighted the success of Florida’s approach to handling the pandemic. “We focused on protecting the most vulnerable, particularly the elderly, while still allowing our economy to remain open,” he explained. ”And it worked. Florida has lower per capita COVID death rates than many other states, including those with strict lockdown measures.”
Furthermore, DeSantis questioned Trump’s motives for making these false claims. “I think he’s just trying to grab headlines and create division within the Republican Party,” he remarked. “But the people of Florida know the truth. They saw firsthand how we handled the pandemic, and they support our approach.”
In response to Trump’s criticisms of Dr. Fauci, DeSantis offered a more measured perspective. “Look, I don’t always agree with everything that Dr. Fauci says,” he acknowledged. “But I believe in a constructive approach to public health. Instead of attacking individuals, let’s focus on the science and data to make informed decisions.”
DeSantis concluded the interview by reiterating his commitment to the people of Florida. “My priority has always been to protect the freedoms and livelihoods of Floridians,” he stated. “And that’s exactly what I’ve done throughout this pandemic. I won’t be distracted by baseless attacks. I will continue to lead our state and serve its citizens to the best of my abilities.”
In the face of Trump’s claims, it is clear that DeSantis is not backing down. As the 2024 presidential election looms, it is crucial for Republican candidates to stay united and focused on the real issues at hand, including the ongoing pandemic. DeSantis’s response demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his principles and to the people he serves.
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