GOP Congressman Hammers MSNBC Over Florida Claim
Florida Representative Mike Waltz (R-FL) responded strongly to an MSNBC guest's comment that Florida is about to become a “terrorist state” for black Americans and anyone in the LGBTQ community.
MSNBC guest says Florida is about to be a “terrorist state” for black people and lesbians. These people are legit insane: pic.twitter.com/JKNwX8kCYh
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) May 22, 2023
The comment was made by Democratic strategist Aisha Mills on MSNBC's “Deadline White House” show hosted by Nicolle Wallace. Wallace had brought up the NAACP’s travel warning, which identified Florida as “hostile” to these groups. In response, Mills said, “I think about all the folks who travel there for sun and joy and peace and restoration — and to be reminded that actually this is getting to the point where Florida is about to be a terrorist state to many of us here in America. Certainly as a lesbian, as a black woman, I don’t want to have anything to do with the place.”
Waltz, a combat veteran and Green Beret whose missions included fighting terrorists, responded sternly on Twitter, retweeting Clay Travis’ video of Mills’ comments with the caption, “@ClayTravis is 100% correct. As a combat veteran, I’ve been shot at by actual terrorists in war torn countries. These people are legitimately insane.”
Waltz’s reaction is echoed by Florida GOP Chairman Christian Ziegler, who refuted the NAACP's characterisation of Florida as a dangerous place. He noted that the NAACP’s chairman – Leon Russell – actually lives in Florida himself.
“True leadership is being willing to do what you ask others to do … it’s time to step up and MOVE,” Ziegler challenged Russell. “If you think our state is so bad, the @FloridaGOP will help with moving costs.”
Despite the strong response from Florida Republicans, the NAACP's warning remains in effect. Mill's comments sparked a strong reaction due to their extreme language, but the NAACP's warning may still act as a deterrent for tourists who are concerned about their safety while visiting Florida.
In the wake of the comment, Mike Waltz sought to ensure the public that Florida remains a safe place for minorities and the LGBTQ community. He cited his experience as a combat veteran and Green Beret, standing firmly against Mills' radical claims.
Waltz's response, and the support of Florida GOP leadership, demonstrate that while Florida is undoubtedly acknowledging the discrimination faced by minorities and the LGBTQ community, the state is vehemently denouncing the dangerous language used by the Democratic strategist.
.@clayTravis is 100% correct. As a combat veteran, I’ve been shot at by actual terrorists in war torn countries.
These people are legitimately insane. https://t.co/2jTQ4e8RjZ
— Rep. Mike Waltz (@michaelgwaltz) May 23, 2023