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Dear Neighbor,
On behalf of the whole Bilirakis Family, I’d like to wish each of you a happy and healthy new year!
As we embrace 2023, it is important to reflect on the unforgettable events of the year that has just drawn to a close. Unfortunately, President Biden has created many serious problems from which to choose, including: an inflation crisis that continues to hurt all Americans, a border crisis and foreign policies that make our nation less safe, and an energy crisis which makes us more reliant on foreign adversaries. According to recent polls, more than two-thirds of Americans (70%) said the country is not on the right track. I agree with them, which is why as part of our Commitment to America, my colleagues and I will work to course correct by creating: an economy that is strong, a nation that is safe, a future that is free, and a government that is accountable! We can and must do better in 2023.
Also, as you may be aware, the Florida Legislature adopted new Congressional lines that altered the boundaries of the 12th District which I've been re-elected to represent. Effective January 3, 2023 my newly configured district will only include: Hernando, Citrus and parts of Pasco counties. Pinellas County will now be a part of the 13th Congressional District which will be represented by Congresswoman-elect Anna Paulina Luna. Please know that my team and I are committed to prioritizing constituent needs and ensuring a seamless transition. For example, if you have an open constituent case with my office, my casework team will continue to handle your case until we reach resolution with the federal agency. While my new district will look different moving forward, I remain committed to fighting for all Americans. Continue reading to learn more about my efforts!
Securing Results for You
It has truly been my honor to serve you this year. I look forward to accomplishing much more on your behalf in 2023!
Fighting Fentanyl Crisis
This story outlines a tragic situation that occurred with a Florida Police Officer who overdosed after being exposed to fentanyl during a traffic stop. Thankfully, Officer Bannick has recovered after receiving Narcan doses; however, the incident highlights the urgent need to crack down on the fentanyl being illegally trafficked into our country at the southern border and the importance of passing the HALT Fentanyl Act. The DEA has confiscated more than 10,000 lbs of fentanyl powder and 50.6 million fentanyl tablets in 2022. This is double the amount seized in 2021 when more than 107,000 Americans died of drug overdoses. I recently led a bicameral group of my colleagues to request that President Biden pursue a comprehensive strategy to combat the illicit opioid epidemic and classify illicit fentanyl and all its precursor chemicals as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). This crisis is killing our neighbors and we need action now!
 
Restoring American Energy Independence
While Floridians are expecting continued warm weather, much of the country is suffering from high energy prices to heat their homes during a very cold winter – as costs have surged nearly 20% in the past year. President Biden needs to end his war on American energy production to provide much needed relief to all Americans.
Securing our Border
In a desperate attempt to hide our worsening border crisis, the Biden Administration released its monthly U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) report the Friday before Christmas. It’s not hard to see why—last month was officially the WORST November on CBP record, with over 200,000 illegal crossings of our southern border for the ninth consecutive month. Nearly 30% of these illegal immigrants were expelled using Title 42. Title 42 is one of the most powerful tools at the federal government’s disposal that allows for the quick expulsion of illegal immigrants in order to protect our communities. Yet, the Biden Administration is fighting to end Title 42. The Supreme Court’s recent action to block President Biden’s repeal of Title 42 is a positive development. However, Congress must pass legislation that will immediately address the border crisis. This must include: providing much needed resources to Border Patrol, stopping illegal migrants from entering our country, and halting the trafficking of deadly fentanyl across the border.
Raising Awareness and Celebrating Success
The holidays can be a difficult time for many battling depression. Remember, you are not alone, and suicide is never the answer. If you, a friend, or a loved one is struggling- there is help available.
I am also very proud of these bright young constituents who are making a positive difference in our community. It was a pleasure to meet with them recently about their concerns and to learn more about the work they are doing to combat peer pressure.
Constituent Corner
My office recently received this email.
Thank you to James in your office for helping me with an emergency passport renewal. I had initially been told by the Passport Agency that there was no hope in me being able to get an appointment for a passport renewal for my trip which was only a week away. Yet, after calling your office James was able to get me an appointment in the Miami office for the next day. I was able to join my family on our holiday vacation and we had a wonderful time. Thank you so much!
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |
