Friend,

Eight years ago today, hundreds of innocent Floridians walked into Pulse nightclub expecting a night of joy, fun, and celebration for Pride Month.

But a mass shooter motivated by hate — someone who never should have been able to even secure a weapon — also entered Pulse nightclub, murdering 49 people and wounding 53 others. It remains one of the deadliest mass shootings in our nation's history — a terrible scar on our state, resulting in carnage that could have been prevented and emotional damage for survivors and loved ones alike. 

As we remember Pulse, my heart goes out to the families and friends of those who were taken from us, to the survivors who lived through such horror, and especially to the LGBTQ+ and Latino communities in Orlando forever altered by what took place eight years ago today.

I know what it's like to lose someone to gun violence. It’s a terrible pain that I've carried with me since I was 24, and one that will stay with me forever. It's knowing this type of loss that pushed me into public service.

So let me say this as clearly as I can: It is long past time we take bold action to address gun violence. While progress has been made, we have a long way to go. In America right now, firearms are the No. 1 cause of death for children. It’s the greatest moral failing of our time. I refuse to sit by idly and let it continue. Everybody deserves to feel safe in their own community — at a nightclub, at church, in a store, at home, everywhere.

In remembering and honoring those taken from us eight years ago today at Pulse — and in the midst of Gun Violence Awareness Month — I'm reaffirming my commitment to end the plague of gun violence in our state. My opponent, Rick Scott, has stood firmly in the way of legislation to prevent gun violence while being backed by the gun lobby throughout his career. I'm running to be Florida's next U.S. Senator to expand gun safety laws so nobody has to live in fear. You have my word on that. 

Today, my heart is with all those impacted by the loss of life at Pulse nightclub. Together, we can and will do better — to deliver the change that's been urgently needed and make our communities safe for our loved ones.

In solidarity,

Debbie