Hello Friend,

Welcome to my e-newsletter, the Ready Room. As a retired Naval Aviator, the Ready Room is special to me because it’s where fellow aviators meet to brief and debrief missions. This is my weekly briefing to you on my mission in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for regular updates on how my team and I are working to serve you in Congress.

THE FIGHT TO SECURE OUR BORDER CONTINUES

Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student from Georgia, was brutally murdered by Jose Ibarra, a criminal illegal immigrant from Venezuela. Ibarra was arrested in New York last year on other charges, including theft. He was soon released back on to the streets before fleeing to Georgia before killing Laken. Tragedies like this are occurring around the country due to the crisis at the southern border. 

I cosponsored and voted for the Laken Riley Act to ensure criminal illegal immigrants, like Ibarra, are charged and deported for theft-related crimes. Protecting our communities must be our highest priority. This bill passed the House and now awaits action in the Senate.

ZERO TOLERANCE FOR ANTISEMITISM

In the first 18 hours after the October 7th attacks, antisemitic language on some social media sites increased by 488%. And in many cases, pro-Palestine protests on college campuses have turned violent. This despicable behavior has no place anywhere.

That’s why I cosponsored the Antisemitism Awareness Act to direct the Department of Education to establish a standard definition of antisemitism when investigating antisemitic acts. This bill will ensure stronger protection for the Jewish community from discrimination and prevent potential personal bias from administrators.

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Do you want your artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol? Each spring, the Artistic Discovery Contest provides an opportunity to recognize artistic talent in the nation and our district. The winning FL-18 artwork will be exhibited for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The deadline for submissions is 5PM Friday, April 12th. Learn more about the competition's requirements here. 

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

What is the term for a type of government in which one person possesses unlimited power?

A. Republic
B. Oligarchy
C. Democracy
D. Autocracy

Last Week's Question

What basic freedom does the 1966 Supreme Court decision in Miranda v. Arizona protect?

A. The right to freedom of speech
B. The protection against self-incrimination - Correct answer
C. The right to bear arms
D. The right to freedom of assembly

It is an honor and privilege to represent you in Congress. Please take a moment to fill out my latest constituent survey here. Your feedback helps me better represent you. For more information on constituent services, current legislation, and to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at franklin.house.gov. 

Best regards,

C. Scott Franklin
Member of Congress