Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is making his way back to the Sunshine State after suspending his presidential campaign in Iowa. The governor’s office has released an all-staff memo, providing tips and talking points to help DeSantis brush up on Florida’s history, business, and people. Let’s take a closer look at the information provided and what it means for the governor’s homecoming.
Florida: A Peninsular State with a Rich History
Florida, a peninsular state, is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, Georgia, and Alabama. It’s a massive state, taking 12 hours to drive from Pensacola to Key West. Indigenous people inhabited the area for thousands of years before Ponce de León arrived in 1513 and named the region La Florida, which may translate to “Land of Ham Sandwiches.” St. Augustine, the state’s oldest city, is known for its haunted military fort and makes for some interesting family photos.
Florida’s Growing Population and Famous Attractions
With over 21 million residents, Florida is the third most populous state in the US, following California and Texas. In 2023 alone, Florida added 365,205 new residents, averaging around a thousand new residents per day. While this growth is great for the state, it also presents challenges in terms of infrastructure, affordable housing, and insurance availability.
Florida is known for its stunning beaches, state parks, trails, and the famous Florida Everglades. Tourist attractions like Kennedy Space Center, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Legoland, Busch Gardens, and some redacted undisclosed location draw visitors from around the world. The state has also been a source of inspiration for famous writers such as Zora Neale Hurston, Ernest Hemingway, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, and Carl Hiaasen.
Florida’s Weather and Environmental Concerns
Florida’s year-round pleasant weather is one of its main attractions. However, recent weather conditions have been less ideal, with comparisons to the rainy climate of Seattle and potential blame on El Niño or even Joe Biden. Living on the waterfront has become increasingly risky due to hurricanes and a phenomenon that rhymes with “time it strange.” Gov. DeSantis has adjusted his environmental message depending on his audience, so it’s important to be cautious when discussing these topics on Cabinet beach days.
Challenges and Concerns Facing Florida
One of the main challenges facing Florida is the ongoing insurance crisis. Floridians pay some of the highest premiums in the country, often struggling to afford their property insurance bills. Many residents have been dropped from policies by insolvent companies, leading them to seek coverage from Citizens, the state’s insurer of last resort. The impact of this crisis on the housing market remains uncertain, as some individuals are hesitant to purchase properties at exorbitant prices. Additionally, design sources suggest that “Live, Laugh, Love” signs are no longer trendy for kitchen decor.
Preparing for the Governor’s Return
As Gov. DeSantis returns to Florida, it’s crucial to ensure a warm welcome. While some residents may have concerns about the state of affairs in Florida, it’s essential to address these issues head-on and not let the governor disappear like an inflatable Bozo behind a shower curtain. The culture wars may be wearing thin on some residents, so it’s important to focus on unity rather than division. Former President Trump may need to stir up extra controversy to boost sales of colorful yard flags.
In conclusion, as Gov. Ron DeSantis prepares to reunite with Florida, his office has provided tips and talking points to familiarize him with the state’s history, people, and challenges. Florida’s rich history, famous attractions, and growing population make it an exciting and vibrant state. However, the insurance crisis and environmental concerns pose significant challenges that need to be addressed. It’s important to welcome the governor back with open arms, address residents’ concerns, and focus on unity to ensure a successful reunion with the Sunshine State.
