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.

RESILIENCE IN STATE OF EMERGENCY

Our heartfelt prayers are with the millions throughout the Southeast affected by Hurricane Helene’s deadly storm surge and winds last week. Thank you to first responders, emergency management staff, law enforcement and utility workers for working before, during and after the storm to help keep our community safe. 

I joined my Florida colleagues in urging the Biden Administration to issue a major disaster declaration and release needed disaster relief immediately. Click here to learn more.  

HOLDING OFFICIALS ACCOUNTABLE FOR AFGHANISTAN WITHDRAWAL 

It's been three years since the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal that allowed the Taliban to quickly reverse the gains America secured through 20 years of fighting, at a cost of trillions of dollars and nearly 2,500 American lives. The final act of abandonment resulted in 13 service members killed in the Abbey Gate bombing, billions of dollars in advanced military equipment falling into the hands of the Taliban, betrayal of our allies there on the ground and the emboldening of our adversaries. Americans are still waiting for accountability. That’s why last week, I voted for H. Res. 1469 to provide transparency and hold accountable key players in the execution of the Afghanistan withdrawal. We must ensure a tragic failure like this never happens again. The resolution was agreed to 219 - 194.  Click here to learn more.

SAVE THE DATE: CAPTURE THE FLAG TOURNAMENT

Do you know a middle or high school tech whiz? We are hosting our 2nd annual Capture the Flag competition on Thursday, November 7th from 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM in the Thrift Alumni Center at Florida Southern College. Students will compete to solve beginner-level coding and cybersecurity exercises in this team-oriented event. For more information, teachers or parents can call (863) 644-8215.

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Are you experiencing delays with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)? Our office recently helped constituents with the approval of their work authorization and with the reopening of a mistakenly denied immigration case. If you need assistance with USCIS or another federal agency, click here or call (863) 644-8215.  

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

What act made Washington D.C. the permanent home of Congress?

A. Congressional Act
B. Representative Act
C. Legislative Act
D. Residence Act

Last Week's Question

Which House of Representatives committee is responsible for issues such as taxes, bond debt, tariffs and international trade?

A. Ways and Means - Correct answer
B. Appropriations
C. Finance
D. Budget

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