Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.
On Saturday, Nov. 5, just three days before Election Day, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio made an appearance in Monticello to network and campaign with residents and local politicians. Erik and Amy Paul offered up their stately property for the occasion, and local business owners, county commissioners, residents and visiting citizens gathered at the beautiful estate to eagerly await his arrival, enjoying hotdogs, chips and cold drinks offered on site.
As the crowd awaited the Senator's arrival, Haley Paul, daughter of Erik and Amy Paul, led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a prayer led by Erik Paul. Republican Executive Committee (REC) Chairman Glenn Bishop took the podium and gave a welcoming speech before handing the floor to local politician, Michelle Milligan (R), a candidate for Supervisor of Elections.
“Good afternoon, everybody, and thank you all for coming out,” began Milligan. “It is a little warm, but isn't this place beautiful?” She introduced herself, before continuing, “I am proud to join Senator Marco Rubio on this final swing before Election Day. I am proud to be a part of this great team, fighting to help keep our state free. I'm going to give you guys some statistics; so, right now, today,with voter turn out, we have 3,495 unofficial voter turn out, and that's out of 9,620 eligible voters here in Jefferson County. So that's great, and percentage-wise, that's 36.33 percent. So, if you voted for me, thank you very much! If you haven't voted, y'all go to the polls, y'all support Senator Marco Rubio as well! Thank you all so much! Now, I have the great honor of introducing our wonderful sheriff, Sheriff Mac McNeill. I want to say thank you for keeping us safe all the time!”
The crowd gave applause as Sheriff McNeill approached the podium. “They just told me that you guys have to listen to me for fifteen minutes, apparently, because we've got until 2:15,” said McNeill, as the crowd laughed appreciatively. The sheriff described his previous experience working with Senator Rubio back in 2008 when he was working as protection detail for Governor Bush. At that time, Rubio served the role of Speaker of the House. McNeill described Rubio as a “true public servant,” adding that a key aspect of Rubio's character is that he follows through with what he says he is going to do.
“As this sign says,” said McNeill. “ 'Getting Things Done;' that is what the senator has done for us in the State of Florida. He has supported our gun rights, he understands that it's really up to the individual to protect themselves, and everybody here deserves the ability to own a gun and protect their family. He's for secure borders... He has supported our veterans. He has been a huge advocate for veterans. He believes in law enforcement, he has supported us at the federal level and has protected us against defunding.”
The Sheriff discussed a broad range of community concerns, like crime rate, border security, and law enforcement support. “We are at a crossroads in America right now, and I'm sure you all have seen it. Everybody tells you this year is the most important election we are ever going to have. Truly, this is one of the most important elections we are ever going to have.”
At approximately 2:15 p.m. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio pulled in and took to the podium.
“Thank you guys, so much,” he said, “Man, this is fantastic! It's great to be here with all of you, in such a great setting. I appreciate you coming out here.”
He introduced his wife, Jeanette, who was in the crowd. “Over the years, I have trouble convincing her and my children that anybody comes to where I do. 'Dad, who wants to hear you talk?'” he jokes, “I'm glad she is here to go back and bear witness to the fact that somebody showed up on this very important time in our country. I think about this election and what's at stake. Honestly, what we do in government is really not that complicated. Our job is to make sure that America is safe, and has the environment for prosperity so that you and the people of our country can go out and build a strong nation, and the lives that they want. That really is it.”
For the next 30 minutes or so, Senator Rubio addressed the crowd, touching on his hopes for the country, his plans after winning the election, views on climate change, crime rates and his dissatisfaction with current administration.
“Our people are strong. And what they need are leaders who understand that the strength of our country comes from our people. What we need are leaders that understand that the most important house in America is not The White House, it's your house. It's our homes, where we raise children, where we teach values, and where we partner with others in community to make a difference in our country. One community, one block, one family at a time. What we need is a government that allows you the prosperity and the safety to achieve that. That is the source of our greatness. We are extraordinary people.”
He finished his speech with a final sentiment, “We will not lose America. Our children are going to inherit the greatest country in the world, and they are going to be the freest and most prosperous Americans that have ever lived. That's why we fight, that's why we ask you to come out and vote, not just for me, but up and down the ticket, so that when our time is done, history will say of this generation, that we did what every American does. Left for their children the single greatest nation in the history of mankind.”
After his speech concluded, Senator Rubio visited with members of the community and local Republican politicians and leaders, shaking hands and exchanging congenialities.
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