Compilation of Independence Day messages from Florida’s elected officials and political leaders

A compilation of Independence Day messages from Florida’s elected officials and politicians:

U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham:

“Today we celebrate the 240th anniversary of the birth of our nation. We honor 240 years of freedom, sacrifice, hard work and the American dream. We also look to the next 240 years and beyond. We are ultimately responsible for creating a brighter future for our children, our nation, and generations to come. I know that the only way to continue moving our country forward is to work together and find common ground. So as you celebrate today, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on the men and women who’ve made our nation what it is today, and look ahead to how we can all continue to build on that progress.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi:

“This Fourth of July, we celebrate 240 years since our Founding Fathers signed the United States Declaration of Independence, forging our path to democracy. The values instilled by our Founding Fathers and the liberties our nation stands on serves as a model for the world. As Americans, our freedom and independence allow us to celebrate this weekend with our family and friends, as well as every single day. It is also due to the courage and sacrifice of our active duty service members who are away from home this holiday and all the members of our Armed Forces that these freedoms are secure and we are protected this Independence Day.”

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam:

From my family to yours, have a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend. pic.twitter.com/abJbXIEfr6

— Adam Putnam (@adamputnam) July 1, 2016

The Florida Senate:

State Sen. Jeff Brandes:

“With Fourth of July weekend upon us, it’s time to relax in the Florida sunshine, enjoy the festivities, and spend time with friends and family. While we celebrate, we remember the bold ideas of our Founding Fathers for a nation governed by its citizens and their courageous fight against tyrannical rule. As our State Senator, I am guided each day by the same principles of individual liberty that guided the men who signed the Declaration of Independence. I hope everyone stays safe this weekend while they enjoy the freedoms offered to every American citizen.”

State Sen. Jack Latvala, via Facebook:

“After our brave founders declared the nation’s independence 240 years ago today, America continues to wave the banner of liberty throughout the world.”

Speaker-designate Richard Corcoran:

State Rep. Danny Burgess:

State Rep. Jose Felix Diaz:

“Wishing you and yours a Happy Fourth of July. The United States endures as a beacon of freedom and prosperity. God Bless America!”

State Rep. Manny Diaz:

State Rep. Dane Eagle:

“As we join family gatherings and enjoy festive celebrations complete with fireworks, let us pause to celebrate and give thanks for that historic day in 1776 when men of resolve came to a crossroads of conviction. From that moment, the Great American Experiment has been transforming the world.

“America is not a word; it is a cause, a way of life, a challenge and a hope in the world of turmoil. On days like this, we recognize the brave sacrifices of America’s fallen soldiers, who showed by their service that freedom is not free.

“We know that bad things happen when good men do nothing. Thank God for the good men and women who resolved to do combat for this country and our ideals.

“Whether inward or outward, the light of Americanism has shined favorably. The windows of history are forever etched with the imprint of Americanism. And even today Lady Liberty continues to lift her lamp beside the golden door. The world is a different place because the tenacious thirst for liberty that consumed our Founders has been propelled across land and sea.

“Freedom is the right of all people and America is her flagship.”

State Rep. Matt Gaetz:

“Every year I look forward to the Fourth of July. Grilling out, setting off fireworks, and spending time with friends and family in the Florida sunshine is about as good as it gets. But amidst all the food and festivities, I always take time to reflect on the real reason we celebrate the Fourth of July: Freedom.

“Our Founding Fathers were extraordinarily brave men committed to freedom. It’s spelled out right there in the Declaration of Independence, penned July 4th, 1776, that we are endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights, among which are “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” The Founding fathers were very clear that these rights could never be taken away.

“Now, more than two centuries after the United States declared our independence, it’s more important than ever to remember the bold ideas of our Founding Fathers. Documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are not just museum exhibits – they’re principles to guide our nation.

“I hope you have a safe and relaxing Fourth of July weekend as we celebrate the freedoms and liberties of our great nation.”

State Rep. Bill Hager:

Many of you will be taking a long weekend to enjoy time with family and friends. I want to wish you a happy, safe and enjoyable Independence Day! For those of you still looking for something to do this holiday weekend, the Palm Beach Post has put together a list of the best fireworks and fun events throughout Palm Beach County. You can view that article by clicking here. As always, it is my honor to represent you in the Florida House. Please do not hesitate to contact me if ever I may be of service to you.

State Rep. Greg Steube:

“I hope this Independence Day finds you and your family safe and enjoying summer in Florida! On this day, in 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, forming the United States of America, a new nation. Since that time millions of Americans have done their part to continue the legacy that our forefathers set. The brave men and women of our military, dedicated civil servants, mothers, fathers, brother and sisters. It’s all of us, working together, that have made our country the greatest nation on the planet. Happy 240th Birthday America!”

State Rep. Ritch Workman:

“In 1981 when my dad moved us from Canada to Florida he called a family meeting in the back yard of our new home.  There, he had a flag pole and he had us gather around.  Out of a red, white and blue box dad pulled out a flag.  He explained what the stars and each color and stripe represented.  He slowly raised that flag to the top of the pole and proudly proclaimed that we were now Americans.  He tried to explain the freedoms and the personal liberties that come with being an American.  It didn’t make much sense to me why my dad seemed choked up about it.

“I understand it now.  I knew it in 1991 when I joined the US Army and in 1992 when I became a naturalized US citizen.  And today, on Independence Day, my family will raise Old Glory over our home and I will do my best to explain what it means to be an American to my family.  I wonder if my youngest will wonder why dads choked up?

“Happy Independence Day!”

State Rep. Dana Young:

“I hope you’re enjoying a 4th of July weekend filled with fun, relaxation, and time with loved ones. As we celebrate our nation’s independence, please join me in remembering the courage of our Founding Fathers, who put forth the bold notion of a nation governed by the people and for the people with unalienable rights. Whether you’re going out on the boat, traveling or just enjoying some time at home, I wish you a safe and happy Independence Day.”

Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez: