Hi John,

As someone who once held responsibility for deadly serious missions, as well as the health and safety of men and women in my charge, I’m careful to criticize executives who must act in the midst of the pandemic. I’ve made tough decisions that affected people’s lives and I know that accurate information and credible intelligence are crucial. Tolerating anything less would constitute a dereliction of our duty to serve and protect.

The pandemic requires a coordinated national response guided by science, logistics, and cooperation. The virus will eventually subside, but it is still gaining strength, threatening death and suffering on a scale that threatens America’s ability to recover rapidly. Given the massive assault on the human population, my strong advice to leaders, both public and private, is:

Solve the public health crisis first.

Economic recovery will follow.

Tragically, too many choose to rely on President Trump’s fantasies rather than science; profit economics over life-saving logistics; and zero-sum competition over win-win cooperation. Governor DeSantis’s pandemic decisions are showing him to be one of these people, sadly moving closer to the utterly poor judgment demonstrated daily by Matt Gaetz.

Our nation is struggling like never before. Now is not the time for ideological purity. People need assurance and economic stability while we fight the virus. The CARES Act, Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, is a good step because it treats everyday people as the priority.

I have the experience to help guide our nation in difficult times like this. I will always apply my independent judgment for our country and the people of Northwest Florida, regardless of who the president may be.

Voters in our district who know this are backing me over Gaetz. The more voters we reach with this message the better chance we have of defeating Gaetz — so please chip in what you can.

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In this fight with you,

Phil

Phil Ehr is a retired U.S. Navy commander and Democratic candidate challenging Matt Gaetz for Florida’s 1st Congressional District. Phil is a husband, father, community volunteer, and U.S. Navy veteran who rose from Seaman to Commander in a 26-year active duty career. Phil flew reconnaissance missions in the Cold War, Desert Storm, and post-9/11 operations. He provided strategic advice to senior leaders in Washington, London, and NATO. Phil is fighting to restore honor and integrity to Northwest Florida’s congressional representation. With your help, we will fight for an economy that is fair for working people, children, and seniors. We will correct failing policies on health care, education, the environment, public safety, and national security. We will defend freedom, equality, liberty, and justice for all. Join the “Ehr Force” today!

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