Hundreds gathered in Tallahassee for the opening day of the Florida State Legislature to support Gov. Rick Scott's budget and other reform proposals. Activists arrived as early as 6:30 am at the Capitol to begin a day of office visits with state legislators, interrupted from 12 -2 pm for the Save Our State Rally. Attendees came from all corners of the state, some leaving at 10 pm the night before to take part. And around the state, many communities held simultaneous gatherings during the rally to voice their support for the governor, though they couldn't be there in person.
Organized by the Floria Alliance, a coalition of over 130 Tea Party, 9/12 and other patriot groups including FreedomWorks Florida, the demonstrators urged legislators to support a bold agenda that included The Health Care Freedom Act, fighting EPA regulations, demands for state sovereignty, school choice, public employee reform, tax cuts, a balanced budget, and pension reform.
Gov. Rick Scott made a surprise appearance at the rally, where he thanked the activists for showing up and urged the crowd to continue holding their elected officials accountable.
Tallahassee Tea Party leader Pace Allen speaks with press
Punta Gorda Tea Party members meet with State Rep. Kreeger
Visit with Rep. Robeson
FL Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll